Dr. Karen Wagner, vice chairwoman of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UTMB."She’s crazy."  "He’s a whack job."  If you haven’t used these sayings, you’ve probably heard them. 

These are common phrases used to refer to persons with a mental health issue.  However, the real issue lies in recognizing unusual behaviors as a sign of a mental health disorder and removing the stigma.     

We’ve learned to recognize the symptoms of a heart attack — shortness of breath, tightening of the chest, pain in the arm.  When a person has any of these complaints he or she is advised to see a doctor or call 911.  However, when someone exhibits signs of a mental health problem — increased irritability, trouble sleeping, difficulty getting along with others — the response is different.  They may be told to “get it together.” 

Their symptoms are often not recognized as a health concern. And when they are recognized, victims may not seek help because of the stigma attached to mental disorders.

Dr. Karen Wagner, vice chairwoman of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UTMB, believes the stigma can be removed when people begin to view mental disorders like any other health issue. 

“There’s a biology to many mental disorders … a neurochemical abnormality within the brain,” said Wagner. “There’s a belief that people should be able to will themselves out of depression.  Often medication is necessary to treat depression.”

A diabetic may become irritated and anxious due to a drop in blood sugar caused by a biological imbalance. The consensus may be that he or she needs to take a glucose tablet or seek medical attention. However, when a mentally ill person becomes irritable or emotional the thought pattern is different.  The consensus is the person needs to change his or her behavior, while in reality; they too may be suffering from a biological imbalance and need medication and medical attention. 

It’s important to state that not all mental health disorders are the result of a biological imbalance and require prescription treatment. Some disorders can be caused by stress or trauma and be treated with counseling. However, recognizing behavioral issues as a legitimate health problem is the first step toward a positive change. 

Here’s a reality check: 1 out of every 4 adults in America experiences a mental disorder in a given year, according to the National Institutes of Health.  Furthermore, 1 in 17 lives with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, major depression or bipolar disorder. 

Signs of a mental disorder may include withdrawal from peers and family, irregular sleep, irritability, appetite changes and suicidal thoughts. 

Wagner specializes in the treatment of children and adolescents with anxiety and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.  Often parents write off warning signs as a simple phase their child is going through.

“If you notice any signs of depression or anxiety, bring your child in for a mental health evaluation,” said Wagner.  “Treatment can improve your child’s life.”

UTMB employees can access help through the Employee Assistance Program.  EAP provides professional, confidential counseling and assistance to employees and their eligible dependents and retirees. EAP is available 24 hours a day, 365 days in the year.

The Employee Assistance Program is located in Rebecca Sealy Hospital, Room 2.812 (east end); mail route 0157.  Please call 409-772-2485 for an appointment. In case of an emergency, an EAP counselor can be contacted 24 hours a day.  For more information click here.