Suggestions to Improve Positive Interactions:

• Learn more about the nature of the person's diagnosed mental illness.
  If the person is prescribed medication for his or her illness, locate information on the side effects and long-term health impact.

• Remember that people with mental health problems generally do not have lower intelligence.
  Some people may have difficulties with attention span or discussing topics that produce anxiety, but other communication problems should be minimal.

• Be aware that people with more severe mental illness have difficulty dealing with emotions or expressing them.
  A person may smile even when he or she is angry or afraid.

• Some people with mental health problems tend to overreact to emotionally charged topics or conversations.
  When this occurs, it is more likely that miscommunications will result. Important information should be conveyed in an objective manner, unless you know how the person is likely to react.

VSA arts of Nevada Please direct questions and comments about VSA arts of Nevada to meh@vsan.reno.nv.us

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