Research Topic Paragraph

Book: So B. It by Sara Weeks

Topic: Metal Disorders

 Search Terms:

1.      “Agoraphobia”

2.      “Psychological/ behavioral patterns”

3.      “Psychiatric medication” 

4.      “Classification of disorders”

5.      “Peer Support” 

6.      “Causes”

7.      “History”

Mental Disorders

One of the big social issues in So B. It was mental disorders.  Heidi’s mother was mentally ill and she never got the proper treatment she deserved.  Wikipedia states that “A mental disorder or mental illness is a psychological or behavioral pattern associated with distress or disability that occurs in an individual and is not a part of normal development or culture.”  It also states that “Psychotherapy and psychiatric medication are two major treatment options as are social interventions, peer support and self- help.”  “Commonly recognized categories include specific phobias, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, agoraphobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.”  (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mental_disorders#Disorders)  This topic relates to me because I think everyone should have an opportunity to be treated for their mental illness because in my book, Heidi’s mother didn’t have the opportunity to be treated.  Heidi’s neighbor, Bernie, has agoraphobia and she wasn’t treated either.  Although, in So B. It, Heidi interpreted her neighbors illness as a fear, not a disorder. 

Eight women representing the different kinds of mental disorders