The "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders" (DSM) is one of the most successful technologies in modern times. In spite of well-argued critiques, the DSM and the idea of "mental illness" on which it is based flourish, with ever more (mis)behaviors labeled as brain diseases. Problems in living and related distress…

Major modifications in the diagnostic nomenclature used in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders -III- Revised (DSM-III-R). Discussions of the modifications is preceded by an introduction to diagnosis in counseling and a brief introduction to the DSMs. The process for revising the DSM is described. Modifications in these…

Notes that Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders fourth edition (DSM-IV) will become one of most frequently used reference documents in counseling profession. Describes progress being made in development of DSM-IV, scheduled for publication in 1994. Describes revision process and proposed organizational changes and new diagnostic…

Discusses the phenomenon of false fire alarms, the deliberate, intentional false reporting of fires, by mentally troubled persons as a primitive kind of help-seeking behavior. Several common themes found by reviewing false alarm cases are presented. Suggests that identifying the intrapsychic dynamics of false alarm reporters could be useful in…

Provides an overview of bipolar disorder, including a discussion of diagnostic indicators, etiological theories, and psychopharmacological treatment. Examines treatment implications for mental health counselors, including role in psychiatric liaison, individual counseling, marriage and family therapy, and vocational counseling. (Author/ABL)

Notes that parents whose son or daughter develops serious mental illness experience grief that is often neither recognized by society nor addressed by mental health professionals. Describes some common elements of parental bereavement, losses experienced with mental illness, consequences of ignoring grief, and appropriate interventions for mental…

Describes basic ideas behind deconstruction, form of analysis that accounts for unconscious elements in human constructions, especially linguistic constructions. Defines linguistic dualities on which Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III) is based, and analyzes these dualities in clinician-client relationship. Uses DSM-III…

The plight of the chronically mentally ill is discussed in this document. Chronic mental illness is defined as producing major impairments in functioning for an extended period of time. It is noted the chronically mentally ill are expected to negotiate a bureaucratic maze to receive help. The history of treatment of the mentally ill is traced from…

This brochure provides information on Alzheimer's disease by examining who gets Alzheimer's disease and what to expect when someone has Alzheimer's disease. Abnormal brain tissue findings are discussed and three clinical features of Alzheimer's disease are listed: dementia; insidious onset of symptoms; and exclusion of all other specific causes of…

Little information on preparticipation screening exams of physically or mentally disabled athletes exists. This report includes the results of 176 preparticipation exams. Suggestions are made regarding effective screening methods. Improvements in the design of consent forms to better help physicians and parents understand the athletes' special…

Discusses the role of mental health and social services personnel in helping patients apply for recertification for Supplementary Security Income (SSI) benefits. Describes the appeal process and provides guidelines for professionals. (JAC)

Examines 12-month period in 1983-1984 when large number of Ethiopian Jews emigrated to Israel under very stressful conditions. Notes that many immigrants were adolescents who left their families behind in Ethiopia. Focuses on nine adolescent immigrants who developed psychiatric disabilities severe enough to warrant hospitalization, describing…

Notes that some demented elderly people can still recall emotionally subjective past. Outlines case study that illustrates how emotional autobiographical memories of past events can be stimulated through individual use of reminiscence and counseling skills. Suggests that there are possible therapeutic effects attached to this approach and that…

Describes Kleine-Levin syndrome, rare disorder characterized by excessive sleep and abnormal hunger. Notes that, in its pure form, disorder can only be diagnosed in adolescent males. Presents case study of 15-year-old male with disease. Presents evidence which suggests link between Kleine-Levin syndrome and cyclic affective disorders. (Author/ABL)

Discusses clinical trends with respect to the inpatient treatment of individuals with dual diagnosis of mental retardation and mental disorders. Identifies operant trends, including increased attention on functionally derived treatments and treatments designed for infrequent behaviors. Also considers pharmacotherapy trends. (Author/NB)