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Removing the Stigma
That is why I am extremely proud to introduce to you our new mental-awareness column. For decades, mental disease has been surrounded, or rather imprisoned, by a social stigma. Those who endured its symptoms were chastised and feared. It was not until recently that the disease was considered just that: a disease. In an effort to educate readers about the true nature of mental disorders, ALS is starting a campaign for mental health awareness. Every other month, a new column will be dedicated to a different mental disorder prevalent among the elderly. Because there is often a delay in diagnosis for those in long-term-care facilities, the articles will focus on how to recognize symptoms, scientific and therapeutic advances, treatment options and much more. Decades of misunderstanding coupled with a lack of knowledge have caused these disorders to be one of the most underreported and undertreated diseases among the elderly. It is my hope that this new column will help illustrate the need for mental awareness in long-term-care facilities. Safety within a facility is another need that must be met for residents in senior housing. This month's issue focuses on safety with ancillary products and services. The features highlight important qualities and concerns to be aware of associated with basic facility needs, such as wall coverings, flooring, beds, doors, etc. Safety has also been a hot topic as senior-housing owners empty their pockets into rising insurance-liability premiums. This month's insurance feature will explain what's causing the pricey premiums and alternative programs that may promote saving money. I hope that you find this month's cover story and features as thought-provoking and informative as I have. It is my pleasure to introduce our latest column on mental awareness in hopes of stimulating a new type of thinking toward mental disease. Adopting a new attitude can be a change that we do not fear but rather embrace. Sincerely,
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We
often fear the things we don't understand. Change is at the top of our list of
dreadful events, right behind public speaking. So imagine the arduous task of
trying to change an entire public perception. Though it may sound intimidating
at first, it would be quite a triumph to alter an attitude of fear and prejudice
to one of understanding and acceptance.
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