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Violence and mental illnessThe news media too often leads viewers and readers to believe that people with mental illness are dangerous, violent, and will "go crazy" with little or no provocation. When in fact, research and studies indicate the opposite; that people with major mental illness are more likely to be the victims of violence rather than the perpetrators. A recent study from North Carolina State University and Duke University found that people who suffer from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or psychosis are more than twice as likely to be attacked, raped, or mugged than members of the general population. Homelessness and alienation from family and friends often contribute to their vulnerability. Other studies indicate that the majority of people who have a severe mental illness are no more violent than anyone else. Factors such as youth, gender (male), poverty, and a history of violent behavior are all stronger predictors of violence as compared to having a mental illness. The general public wonders why a depressed woman like Andrea Yates would drown her five children, or why a man like John Hinckley Jr., became obsessed with the movie star Jody Foster, and also tried to assassinate a United States President. Crimes such as theirs are very rare in people with mental illness, but each is an example of how a psychotic disorder or thought disorder can result in extreme behavior. In contrast, many individuals who suffer from a severe mental illness such as schizophrenia, delusional disorder, or bipolar disorder, do experience a great deal of private torment, yet would never commit a violent act. When violence does occur in a person with a mental illness, other factors should be taken into consideration. Individuals with major psychotic symptoms, such as paranoia, usually function better on psychiatric medications. If they quit using their medication, in spite of cautions from their therapist, physician, and family, their behavior will tend to become more unpredictable. Alcohol or drug abuse also increases the chance of violence. If their behavior does become threatening or violent, it is usually focused on family members, or someone they know well. Thus it is vital for friends and family who are aware, to know their own limitations when dealing with the person, and call for assistance from a mental health professional and/or law enforcement if any situation feels unsafe. People who are burdened with a severe mental illness face challenges on a daily basis that are difficult for others to understand, or to imagine. But when it is assumed that everyone who has a mental illness is a potential criminal, waiting to explode, then their burden becomes even heavier. Contributed by Ken Loos, MS, LMLP, LCP, Consultation and Education Department. Mail questions to: High Plains Mental Health Center, PLAIN SENSE, Consultation and Education Department, 208 East 7th, Hays, KS 67601; or visit www.highplainsmentalhealth.com. Date: 12/18/06
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