Mental Health

Aging is a series of transitions, some gradual and some abrupt. How do people come to terms with these changes? This program examines the aging process from beginning to end, defining age from the viewpoints of biology, psychology, society, functionality, and the law. The impact of current behaviors and attitudes on one's future self is also discussed, as well as dying-itself a part of life-and the stages of grieving. In addition, the program addresses the health challenges faced by older Americans and indicates why some seniors cope better than others. (29 minutes)

Overall well-being requires not only physical health, but psychosocial health as well. What exactly is psychosocial health, and how is it achieved? This program explains the elements that compose psychosocial health, the internal and external factors that influence it, and methods to enhance it. The importance of taking responsibility for one's own psychosocial well-being through self-recognition of problems and identification of barriers to meaningful communication is stressed. (29 minutes)

A certain amount of stress can actually enhance performance and productivity. However, continually high levels of stress have been linked to all of the leading causes of death in America, including heart disease, cancer, and lung ailments. This program analyzes the role of stress in day-to-day life and in overall physical and mental health. Sources of stress are identified, and techniques for managing stress are suggested. Information on how to improve personal communication-a powerful safety valve-is also provided. (30 minutes)

Although the stigma of depression is fading, less than half of those who need help with depression will seek it out. Using several patient histories, this program addresses mild, moderate, and severe depression as well as the specialized cases of vascular depression, treatment-resistant depression, and the depressive aspect of bipolar disorder. Signs and symptoms of depression are spelled out, and multimodal treatment through psychotherapy, medication, support groups, and aerobic exercise is discussed. Commentary is provided by Thomas Insel, director of the National Institute of Mental Health; Susan Blumenthal, of the Georgetown University School of Medicine; and P. Murali Doraiswamy, of Duke University Medical Center. (28 minutes)

Perfumes, aerosols, plastic on television sets-for some people, these everyday chemicals may create health problems ranging from headaches, to breathing difficulties, to loss of consciousness. This program examines the medical and political dimensions of Environmental Illness (EI)-the controversial and mysterious condition whose victims cannot tolerate common chemicals of modern life. Clinical ecologists, a new breed of doctors specializing in EI, believe the condition may result from damage to the immune system caused by exposure to the chemicals that saturate our environment and by overuse of antibiotics. But other physicians do not recognize EI as a medical condition and condemn those who treat it as cult practitioners." The dispute has given rise to political action, involving government agencies at the city, state, and federal level, and heated in-fighting in the medical profession. EI sufferers are caught in the middle. (60 minutes)"

At St. Bernard's Hospital, in Chicago's blighted Englewood neighborhood, the ER staff refuses to back away from the challenge of serving patients with serious mental illnesses and little or no insurance-a population precariously poised to slip between the cracks of a healthcare system that is not set up to catch them. Who are the dedicated professionals stretching their limited resources to help some of those least able to help themselves, and how are they doing it? This ABC News program goes to St. Bernard's to find out. (23 minutes)

Every time Laura gets swollen glands, she spends hours on the Internet researching terminal cancer. Kevin lives in fear of contracting HIV-a drop of blood can send him into a state of panic. And the smallest ache convinces Sarah that she could die at any moment. Studies suggest that as many as one in four general-practitioner consultations are for hypochondriacs-or those who suffer from what is now called Health Anxiety Disorder. This compelling film follows these patients as they undergo an intensive period of cognitive behavioral therapy at a country retreat affiliated with London's Maudsley Hospital. Will it make them better, or are they destined to spend the rest of their lives in and out of unnecessary medical appointments and procedures? (49 minutes)

Aging well might be an ambiguous phrase but it does have meaning, especially for people over 60. This program tells the stories of five vibrantly alive seniors who have successfully navigated through momentous life changes. Their examples highlight important precepts for staying mentally healthy, showing how mental health is a key to successful aging. In interviews and in footage of these men and women engaged in various activities, the program provides useful tips and firsthand advice on planning for retirement, staying active, coping with grief, and making the senior years an age of new discoveries. (57 minutes)

Like physical health, mental health needs to be actively nurtured-particularly as the tempo and complexity of modern living continues to increase. This program focuses on the subject of mental health at the personal level, offering suggestions on how to nourish-and, when necessary, reestablish-a sense of well-being. Maintaining Mental Health also discusses the crucial role community groups play in providing resources that encourage mental health maintenance. Viewable/printable educational resources are available online. (28 minutes)

This program will help teenagers recognize and deal with the black dog" by explaining the causes and symptoms of depression, telling how and where to find help, and providing information on forward-looking treatments tailored for teens. Australian rock musician Daniel Johns and young adults from both urban and rural areas in Australia discuss their experiences with depression. In addition, Jeff Kennett, director of beyondblue-Australia's national depression-awareness initiative-and other mental health professionals add informative and supportive commentary. Viewable/printable educational resources are available online. (29 minutes)"

This program provides useful guidelines and advice to caregivers assisting people with mental impairments. The two major classifications of impairment are closely examined: dementia, or degenerative diseases of the brain such as Alzheimer's, and mental disorders due to congenital conditions, such as Down syndrome. Techniques on how to communicate with and assist elderly people are demonstrated. Instructive interviews with spouses and caregivers of elderly patients and with parents of children with mental disabilities round out this program. (32 minutes)

This program explores the serious health problems that arise from eating disorders and urges students to seek help if they themselves are suffering, or to approach a friend who may be exhibiting signs of an eating disorder.

Created to meet the needs of a steadily growing American senior population, this series addresses important issues that affect quality of life for older men and women, as well as their spouses, family, and friends. Through scenes of daily living, interviews, and expert commentary, the programs provide valuable insights and advice on mental wellness, the key to successful aging. 3-part series, 55 minutes each.