A Polar And Schizophreni Analyzing The Misinformation...

Bi-Polar and Schizophrenia; Analyzing the Misinformation About Mental Illness in the Media and Movies Sarah Jabro Abnormal Psychology 336 October 1st, 2015 Clinical diagnoses of Bipolar disorder, (BP) and schizophrenia (SCH) symptoms that are related to mental illness have increased dramatically within the last several years, and treatment is becoming more specialized. But, unless you study these disorders, or have some degree in psychology, the basis of your knowledge of these disorders comes from media, movies and newspapers. Mass media is the public’s primary source for information so when they decide to present breaking news about some criminal felon who reportedly suffers from mental disorders such as†¦show more content†¦So, why is it the general public is totally shocked when they come to find out that their favorite celebrity commits suicide? Suddenly, in these situations, we find out how little we actually understand about BP and SCH. Drastic events that happen in real life, trigger a sudden interest in a deeper comprehension about BP and SCH. We still must remain vigilant, however, of which media sources we lea rn from. News stories about celebrity tragedies are often dramatized and turn their attention to the reaction and effects of a tragedy rather than the underlying cause. Stereotypes seem to be everywhere especially when it comes to race and gender, but for everyone suffering from a mental illness, they are never one in the same. Some of these stereotypes include falsehoods that people who suffer from mental disorders look different than others. People diagnosed with Schizophrenia are said to look unkempt, as portrayed in video games, TV shows and movies, have the frumpy hair, rumpled clothes, crazy eyes and lack of care for themselves. According to US News, most people who have mental disorders have routines just as anyone else. They get up, shower, eat, and go to work yet have to do so with either their diagnosis, or treatment from a psychiatrist. (Fawcett, 2015) A homeless person suffering from mental illness such as schizophrenia or bi-polar