In the second class, the format will change slightly to begin with a lecture on the symptoms and diagnosis of schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar and schizoaffective disorder. The talk will particularly focus the manic phase of bipolar disorder, psychosis, the process of diagnosis, stigma, myths versus the real risks of mental disorders, and dealing with critical periods in mental illness. The format follows seven immediate questions surrounding these critical periods.

Introduction: A Special Request Regarding the Lecture Format

• Co-Trainers are trained but not seasoned presenters
• Sections use a structured format to cover material
• Each section is designed provide "food for thought"
• Plenty of time is provided for questions and discussion

Framing the Diagnosis of Schizophrenia, Major Depression, and Mania Around Our Questions About the "Critical Periods" in Mental Illness

• The realities when our relatives suffer their "first break" and the confusion surrounding diagnosis
• The seven "critical period" questions surrounding these all-too-familiar dilemmas

First Half of the Lecture: The First Four Questions

• Why can't someone just tell us what the diagnosis is?
• Why is the response to mental illness so different from the response to medical illness?
• What are the basics we need to know about psychotic illness, starting with schizophrenia?
• Why do people change so drastically when they become psychotic? What are they actually experiencing?

Second Half of the Lecture: The Last Three Questions

• What are the basics we need to know about the diagnosis of depression and mania? And what is schizoaffective disorder?
• How can we sort out myths from facts? What about the times when our relatives are assaultive or suicidal?
• What do we need to know right now to help us cope with these critical periods?

Principles to Remember When Dealing With Critical Periods in Mental Illness

• Set limits on psychotic behavior
• Get help
• Trust you instincts
• Speak directly and openly about fears of violence and suicide. Candor is essential
• Good crisis intervention is calm, purposeful and respectful
• Acting to protect our ill relative is the highest form of caring for them, even if it involves force or involuntary commitment
• Acting to keep ourselves from danger is the highest form of self-care