The tragedy
that occurred at Northern Illinois University on Valentine’s
Day may be viewed at senseless and violent. I have heard
many “theories” of how we as a society can prevent similar
future occurrences. The suggestions range from tougher gun
control, more security on campus, and housing all people
with a mental illness in an institution!
My emotions
have taken me in many directions and caused me to have
several questions. First, will tighter control really stop
determined people to get a gun? Next, can security be
everywhere to protect us from everything? Finally, are
people with a brain disorder really more violent?
Personal
experience as a family member and professional cause me to
have conflicting thoughts. I have seen some very agitated
people through the years and some have brain disorders, but
some do not. What is the common factor in violence?
An article
released by SAMHSA states that the association between
mental health disorders and violence is weak. Furthermore,
the American Psychiatric Association says that vast
majorities of people who are violent do not suffer from
brain disorders. The U.S. Surgeon General agrees that the
contribution of brain disorders to the level of violence in
our society is small.
However, many
in our society view people with mental illness as dangerous
and violent. Seventy-five per-cent of television programs
portray people with brain disorders as being involved in
crime and violence. The focus is on the negative
characteristics instead of the positive side of recovery (SAMHSA).
Part of the general population (62-68%) is very reluctant to
work or socialize with a person who has a brain disorder.
The facts are
that a person with a brain disorder is two and one-half more
likely to be harmed by someone or harm him/herself than to
hurt others. The weak association between mental illness
and violence comes when a person is not receiving treatment,
has a history of violence, and abuses alcohol and drugs.
The relationship between psychological symptoms and violent
behavior cause the person to feel threatened and have a loss
of control. This can occur when the person experiences
command hallucinations and thinking that one’s mind is
dominated by outside forces (CMHA).
My final question is: What can
we do for our family members/friends? Research shows that
treatment prevention programs reduce repeat offenders of
violence. NAMI has stated that we need more education,
early interventions, and a fully funded mental health system
which promotes recovery. This would include the use of new
medications and evidence-based practices. Lack of
inadequate insurance, stigma, and financial issues make this
very difficult for at least fifty percent of people who have
a brain disorder. Also, NAMI thinks that education is
important in high schools and colleges so early symptoms can
be identified and treatment started.
My sympathies
go out to everyone involved in the tragedy at Northern
Illinois University. Unfortunately, violence is a part of
our society. I truly hope that we finally recognize the
need to have support services available for all
people in crisis and help reduce the stigma that many
citizens have been persuaded to accept.
