心理健康文章

Sudden, unexpected mental illness taught me the importance of sleep in the harshest way possible.

Julie Whitehead dives into her experience living with bipolar disorder and how she uses writing to express stories that others are unable to tell.

Adrian Fletcher describes his experience of inpatient treatment as an individual with dissociative identity disorder.

Sara Schley and Devika Bhushan explain what bipolar disorder really is, hoping to shatter the stereotypes surrounding this mental health disorder.

MHACC 雙語部落格快訊 ｜Bilingual Blog Flash News 

Causes of Panic Attacks (恐慌发作的原因) Panic attacks can be triggered by high stress, underlying psychiatric conditions such as panic disorder or generalized anxiety disorder, significant life changes, genetic predispositions, or specific phobias. Sometimes, they occur without any obvious cause. 恐慌发作可能由高压力、潜在的精神病状况如恐慌症或广泛性焦虑症、重大生活变化、遗传倾向或特定恐惧症触发。有时候，它们可能在没有明显原因的情况下发生。 Symptoms of Panic Attacks (恐慌发作的症状) Symptoms include a sudden feeling of overwhelming fear and anxiety, heart palpitations, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, and a fear of losing control or impending doom. The symptoms peak within minutes and are often intense and frightening. 症状包括突然感到极度的恐惧和焦虑、心悸、出汗、颤抖、呼吸急促、胸痛、恶心、眩晕以及失控感或即将发生灾难的恐惧。这些症状通常在几分钟内达到高峰，强烈且可怕。 Coping Strategies for Panic Attacks (应对恐慌发作的策略) 1. Recognize the Signs (承認症狀) Acknowledge that you are experiencing a panic attack. Understanding that it's a temporary state and not life-threatening can help reduce fear. 承认你正在经历恐慌发作。明白这是一种暂时的状态，并不会威胁生命，可以帮助减少恐惧。 2. Practice Deep Breathing (练习深呼吸) Slow, deep breaths can help counteract the rapid breathing that occurs during a panic attack, calming both the mind and body. 缓慢深长的呼吸可以帮助抵消恐慌发作时的快速呼吸，安抚心灵和身体。 3. Focus on an Object (专注于一个物体) Pick an object within your sight and observe every detail about it. This can help ground your senses and divert your mind from panic. 选择你视线范围内的一个物体，观察它的每一个细节。这可以帮助你的感官稳定下来，并将你的注意力从恐慌中转移开。 4. Use Muscle Relaxation Techniques (使用肌肉放松技巧) Progressively tighten and then relax different muscle groups. This relaxation technique can help ease the physical symptoms of a panic attack. Begin with your feet and work your way up to your face. Tighten each muscle group for about five seconds and then relax for 30 seconds. Notice the contrast between tension and relaxation. 逐渐紧张然后放松不同的肌肉群。这种放松技巧可以帮助缓解恐慌发作的身体症状。从脚开始，逐步向上到面部。每个肌肉群紧张约五秒钟，然后放松三十秒钟。感受紧张和放松之间的对比。 5. Visualize a Calm Place (想象一个平静的地方) Imagine a peaceful place that makes you feel safe and calm. Visualization can serve as a mental escape from the distress of a panic attack. 想象一个能让你感到安全和平静的宁静场所。视觉化可以作为从恐慌发作的痛苦中逃离的一种心理方式。 6. Practice Mindfulness (练习正念) Stay present in the moment. Mindfulness can reduce the intensity of a panic attack by keeping your focus on the present rather than on the overwhelming fears. 保持当下。正念可以通过将你的注意力保持在当下，而不是在压倒性的恐惧上，来减轻恐慌发作的强度。 7. Seek Professional Help (寻求专业帮助) If panic attacks are frequent and interfering with your quality of life, consult a mental health professional for guidance and treatment. 如果恐慌发作频繁且影响你的生活质量，请咨询心理健康专业人员以获得指导和治疗。

“AAPI”一词代表了一个多样化的群体，涵盖了多个国家、民族和身份认同，每个群体都面临着独特的挑战。这些挑战包括但不限于东南亚战争中的历史创伤、二战期间日裔美国人的拘留，以及第一代移民子女在保持文化遗产和美国生活之间寻找平衡所面临的挑战。 在美国，AAPI社群在身份认同和系统性挑战中寻求方向，包括“模范少数族裔”神话，这一神话基于种族赋予人智力，并歪曲了个别社群的多样性和特有挑战。  AAPI社群的心理健康也受到多种基于种族的问题的影响： “永久外籍人”刻板印象是指某人被假定为外国出生或不会说英语，促成了孤立。 第一代移民经历的创伤可能会传递给后代。 围绕心理健康的污名化很严重，常常阻止个人寻求帮助。 一家名为国家亚裔妇女健康组织（NAWHO）的机构赞助了一项研究：打破沉默：亚裔美国女性抑郁症研究。 Breaking the Silence: A Study of Depression Among Asian American Women . 这项研究发现： 亚裔美国女性的自尊常因不切实际的期望而受到影响。 亚裔美国女性对家庭中的精神健康问题保持沉默。 亚裔美国女性担心自己和家人会因为心理健康问题而受到污名化。 美国物质滥用与心理健康服务署（SAMHSA）的全国药物使用和健康调查显示 SAMHSA’s National Survey on Drug use and Health ，亚裔美国人、太平洋岛民和夏威夷原住民后裔青年的心理健康问题正在增加。 “2008年到2018年间，18至25岁AAPI人群中严重心理疾病（SMI）的比例从2.9%（47,000人）上升到5.6%（136,000人）。” “AAPI青年中的自杀想法、计划和尝试也在增加。” 然而，由于强烈的污名化和语言障碍，亚裔美国人很少寻求专业的心理健康治疗。此外，AAPI历史上在获取医疗保健和保险方面面临困难。 “在寻求心理健康服务方面，AAPI成人是最不可能寻求帮助的种族群体——比白人同龄人少3倍。 least likely to seek mental health services ” 请通过下面的链接查看更多提供给亚裔美国人和太平洋岛民社区的资源： 原文由心理健康美国（MHA）撰写。 Original article written by Mental Health America (MHA) The term "AAPI" represents a diverse group spanning a variety of countries, ethnicities, and identities, each with unique challenges. These include but are not limited to the historical traumas of wars in Southeast Asia, the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, and the challenges faced by first-generation immigrant children balancing cultural heritage with American life. In the U.S., AAPI communities navigate the complexities of identity and systemic challenges, including the "model minority" myth, which assigns intelligence to a person based on their race and misrepresents the diversity and challenges specific to individual communities. Mental health within AAPI communities is also influenced by a multitude of race-based issues: The "Perpetual Foreigner" stereotype occurs when someone is assumed to be foreign-born or unable to speak English, fostering isolation. First-generation immigrants who have experienced trauma may pass down such trauma to future generations. Stigma around mental health is significant, often preventing individuals from seeking help. An organization known as National Asian Women’s Health Organization (NAWHO) sponsored a study: Breaking the Silence: A Study of Depression Among Asian American Women . This study found… Low self-esteem among Asian-American women is often facilitated by unrealistic expectations. Asian-American women remain silent on depression that is witnessed within their families. Asian-American women fear stigma for themselves and more so for their family. SAMHSA’s National Survey on Drug use and Health states that mental health issues are increasing for young adults of Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Native Hawaiian descent. “Serious mental illness (SMI) rose from 2.9 percent (47,000) to 5.6 percent (136,000) in AAPI people ages 18-25 between 2008 and 2018.” “Suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts are also rising among AAPI young adults.” However, due to intense stigma and language barriers, Asian Americans rarely seek out professional mental health treatment. Additionally, AAPIs have historically faced difficulties accessing health care and insurance. “AAPIs adults are the racial group least likely to seek mental health services - 3 times less likely than their white counterparts.” Please see the link below to view more resources available to Asian American and Pacific Islander Communities: Original article written by Mental Health America (MHA)

PLEASE SCROLL DOWN FOR ENGLISH VERSION 我们的沟通方式是否暴力？ 在人类错综复杂的情感交流中，沟通是穿梭在彼此纹理间的线索。我们的言语有时候就像一把双刃剑，既有凝聚人心的力量，也可能在不经意间伤人伤己。 若将“暴力”定义得更广泛一些，我们发现，在沟通中隐藏的“暴力”往往并非源自恶意，它更多时候是一种无意识的习惯性行为。所有人都有与生俱来的同情心，但在追求个人目标的过程中，这些同情心可能会被无意中忘记。隐形的暴力会伤害到他人，当我们自己遭遇相同对待时，也会感到痛苦。 在本文中，我们将探讨“非暴力沟通” (Non-Violent Communication - NVC) 这个沟通艺术，它教会我们如何在倾听自己和他人的需求时，能够清晰且诚实地表达自己。 非暴力沟通引导我们在生活的每一刻采取更富有同理心的交流方式，从而避免互相伤害，改善人际关系，并在潜移默化中疗愈自己的内在创伤。 非暴力沟通：同理心的交流艺术 非暴力沟通由心理学家马歇尔·罗森伯格所创立。他将它称作“生命之语”。 罗森伯格深信，真正的沟通远超过简单的言语交流，它要求我们对自己和他人的深层需求有着清晰的认识和敏锐的意识。通过建立基于同理心的交流，非暴力沟通开启了一条通往理解与链接的道路，让我们在纷繁复杂的人际互动中找到心灵的平和。 一个现实世界的例子 以下是罗森伯格博士的一次亲身经历。当他在伯利恒的难民营进行演讲时，一位听众突然打断他，指责他是“杀人犯”，因为作为美国人的罗森伯格，在他们眼中代表了向以色列供应武器的国家。 面对这样尖锐的责备，罗森伯格博士没有让自己的本能反应——防御或反击——占据上风。相反，他选择运用非暴力沟通的技巧，耐心地倾听这位男士的诉求。 通过倾听，罗森伯格博士发现，这位外表愤怒的男士，他内心的需求和这个世界上的每一个人是一样的：渴望有一个干净且安全的家园、孩子能接受优质教育的机会、政治自由和自治权。 另一方面，罗森伯格博士的倾听，有效地缓解了男士的情绪。他开始将罗森伯格视为一个有共同感受的人类，而非一个“美国人”的标签。这次沟通的结果，是罗森伯格被邀请到男士家中共享晚餐。 这一经历不仅展示了非暴力沟通在化解文化和国际间冲突中的巨大潜力，也证明了通过真诚的倾听和对共同人性需求的理解，非暴力沟通能够搭建起理解与和平之间的桥梁，哪怕是在最不可能的情况之下。 非暴力沟通的4个步骤 1. 观察 非暴力沟通强调在不带评判的情况下进行观察。这意味着简单呈现我们所观察到的事实。例如，把有评判性的话：“我说话时，你经常不听！”，改成这么说：“在今天的会议中，我注意到你在玩手机。” 学会将观察到的事实与我们对这些观察的主观判断分开来。保留自己的判断不要说出来，这样可以避免激发对方的防御性反应，并为彼此理解打开可能性。在日常沟通中，只说自己的观察是非暴力沟通的起点。 2. 感受 非暴力沟通中，他人的言行只是一个刺激源。我们感受的产生是由我们对这些刺激的反应，以及当时的需求和期望决定的。 学习非暴力沟通，要承认并表达自己的感受，识别并负责任地处理自己的情绪，而不是简单地将情绪归咎于他人的行为或言语。 例如，面对来自他人的指责：“你太自私了！”，比较下面4个回答，你觉得哪个回答更有效呢： 郁闷接受：“是，我真的很自私……” 愤怒反击：“我不自私，是你太自私！” 考虑自己的感受和需求：“当我听到你说我自私时，我感到受伤，因为我确实有想到你，也希望你能看到我的努力。” 通过将自己的感受与需求联系起来，使得对方更容易以同理心回应。 考虑对方的感受和需求：“我看到你很受伤，是因为你希望我能更多地想到你吗？”这样的回应为对话开辟了空间，并让对方有机会表达他们潜在的需求。 非暴力沟通赋予了个体在与他人互动时做出不同选择的能力，让个体更有可能理解对方并满足自己的需求，从而达到一个称为“情感解放”的阶段。 3. 需求 非暴力沟通建立了个体的感受和未满足需求之间的联系。这些需求是所有人类共有且基本的。比如，愤怒和挫败这两种情感，通常是因为爱的需求和被接纳的需求没有得到满足时的外在表达。 所以，在这一步中，我们需要学习内省，寻找情感背后的内在需求。在非暴力沟通的练习中，用一张纸来列出所有描述我们情感和需求的词汇，可以了解人类丰富情感和需求之间的细微差别。 下面是一个比较简单的列表，当然人类的感受和需求更复杂和多样化。建议使用这个列表作为起点，根据个人的具体情况进行调整和补充，构建你自己的感受和需求图表。 4. 请求 在非暴力沟通的实践中，最后一个至关重要的步骤是提出既具体又可行的请求，请求应该以一种能够促使对方以同理心进行回应的方式提出。请求绝不是强求。因为任何形式的强迫和威胁都是无效沟通的源头，削弱了沟通的真正意义和价值。 提出请求应该是积极和建设性的，表达我们所希望得到的，而不是反对的或想要避免的事情。例如，说“我希望你能在家里和我共渡更多时光”，比说 “我不希望你总是忙于工作”来得更为直接和正面。 非暴力沟通的技巧 精准倾听的技巧 倾听是非暴力沟通的重要部分。记住下面的要点可以提升倾听技能，更加熟练地识别对方话语背后的情感和需求。 站在他人的立场上：选择一个你希望改善关系的人。在交谈时，尽你最大的努力去理解他们的观点。比如，想象自己是对方，体验他们的一天。通过换位思考，你的同理心能力有变化吗？ 核实你的解读：回顾你和那个人之间的对话。有意识地核实你对对方所说内容的解读和假设。 全神贯注：在对话中，首先要全心全意地倾听对方。在转换话题前说：“我想确认一下我是否正确理解了你的意思？” 澄清对方所说的内容：努力澄清你认为自己听到的内容，识别并反映对方的情感。如果你不确定是否正确理解，就直接询问。 澄清你所说的内容：在对话中，你可以尝试询问对方是怎么理解你说的话。如果出现了误解，你会如何澄清？ 愤怒-退出-重返技巧 愤怒可能是最容易阻碍同理心发生的情绪。使用愤怒-退出-重返步骤学习缓解愤怒。 退出：在你说任何话之前，站起来并开始走动。当你离开时，说一些温和的话，比如“我需要喝口水。” 冷静：先专注做一些其他无关的事物，分心做一些愉快的事情，直到你回到冷静状态。 洞察：冷静后，反思当处于愤怒中时看不到的东西。你的真正需求是什么？有什么更好的办法可以满足你的需求？ 重返：首先通过一个愉快且安全的对话来测试水温，然后再回到棘手的话题上。 沟通中需避免的陷阱 固化思维，反复说同一件事，不接受新信息。 坚持某一立场并一意孤行推动自己的方案。 批评对方的观点，而不是试图理解对方。 沟通中成功的技巧 倾听并互相学习。 列出双方关心的问题，让两边的问题都变得同等重要。 强调盲人摸象的故事：每个盲人摸到了大象的一部分。摸到身体的人描述大象就像一堵墙。摸到尾巴的人描述它像一根管子，摸到鼻子感觉像树枝，摸到腿感觉像树干。将所有人的观点汇集在一起对全面了解大象至关重要。 跳出常规思维框架，探索有创造性的解决方案往往才能打破僵局。 当双方都陷得太深，建议停止对话并在大家都更平静时再继续。 使用“我”陈述的技巧 开放而诚实的沟通确实很难，特别是当我们感到被指责或有罪恶感时。在这些情况下，我们可能会说出伤人的话，或者在表达我们需求或情感时说出并不是真正想要表达的意思。 在非暴力沟通中，使用“我”陈述是一个关键的技巧，因为它允许说话者拥有自己的陈述，并为自己的需求和感受负责。 下面是一些常见的可能引起冲突的情境，以及如何用“我”陈述来改善沟通效果的例子。 情境1：“你总是让我迟到，因为你从不提前告诉我我们的计划” “我”陈述：“我感到压力很大，当你没有及时告诉我关于计划的信息。” 情境2：“你总是在你知道我没有休息日的时候谈论你精彩的周末。” “我”陈述：“我感到被排除在外，当我不能参与你的周末计划。” 情境3：亲戚本周第三次请求借钱。你正在为账单存钱，现金紧张。 “我”陈述：“我感到焦虑，当你一再请求借钱，因为我正在为账单存钱，现金很紧张。” 情境4：你的邻居每天都停在你的车道上。你不得不在街上停车，搬运重物上长长的车道。 “我”陈述：“我感到不便，当你把车停在我的车道上，因为我不得不在街上停车并搬运重物。” 情境5：一个朋友不能参加你即将到来的表演。你已经为他们练习了几周特别的歌曲。 “我”陈述：“我感到失望，当你不能来看我的表演，我已经为你练习了几周特别的歌曲。” 冥想与非暴力沟通 冥想和非暴力沟通是相辅相成的实践，它们共同塑造了一种更加深刻的自我和他人理解。非暴力沟通教导我们在沟通中放慢步伐，深入探寻并诚实表达我们的感受和需求。冥想则为这一过程提供了强大的支持，帮助我们在日常生活中培养出更加稳定的情绪状态和更高的意识水平，使我们能够更加从容地面对各种情境，以反应取代自动的回应。 在非暴力沟通的旅程中，冥想不仅是一项技能，它是一扇窗，透过这扇窗，我们能够更清晰地看见内在世界的风景。因此，在下一篇文章中，我们将深入探讨冥想如何与非暴力沟通相结合，并提供专为非暴力沟通设计的冥想练习，以帮助大家在沟通与生活中实现更深层次的和谐与理解。 敬请关注美国华裔精神健康联盟公众号，及时获取更多精彩内容！ 本文翻译并改写自： https://positivepsychology.com/non-violent-communication/ 如果你想进一步了解非暴力沟通，我们推荐以下三本书籍： 《非暴力沟通：生命之语》第三版 - 马歇尔·B·罗森伯格博士 & 迪帕克·乔普拉 《活用非暴力沟通：在各种情境下连接与沟通的实用工具》 - 马歇尔·B·罗森伯格博士 《做自己，爱你所爱：非凡关系的实用指南》 - 马歇尔·B·罗森伯格博士（2005） 在MHACC微信上阅读这篇文章： https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/vH68TLJSPkdmb88Bw-4y7Q Your Complete Nonviolent Communication Guide 1 Oct 2020 by Joshua Schultz, Psy.D. Violent communication, defined as causing harm to ourselves or others, is often not intentional but can result from automatic and habitual ways of interacting. Despite our innate capacity for compassion, we may resort to fear, guilt, shame, or coercion to get our way, leading to suffering for both parties. This article introduces Nonviolent Communication (NVC) as a method to foster clear and honest expression while attentively considering both our own needs and those of others. What Is Nonviolent Communication, and What Are Some Real-life Applications? Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is a communication method developed by psychologist Marshall Rosenberg, aimed at fostering compassionate interactions. Described as a "language of compassion," NVC is intended to focus our attention in a way that increases the likelihood of meeting our needs. It operates on the premise that communicating with compassion leads to more beneficial outcomes than does uncompassionate communication, affecting both personal and societal dynamics. NVC is applicable in various settings, including intimate relationships, educational and professional environments, and in resolving conflicts and disputes. 2 Examples of NVC: 1) School A special-ed teacher taught her students NVC. A child in her class grapples with behavioral difficulties, as he becomes agitated and violent when other students get too close to his desk. When the teacher asks him to use NVC, he articulates his discomfort by saying: “Would you please move away from my desk? I feel angry when you stand so close to me.” The other student complies and the situation deescalates. 2) Medicine A doctor uses NVC with her patients to understand their needs. She makes an effort to use NVC to show interest in her patients’ daily lives and make suggestions on how they can improve their well-being. The patients respond with gratitude, and the doctor feels motivated. Not only that, the doctor improves in her ability to see her patients as people beyond their diagnoses. https://positivepsychology.com/non-violent-communication/ How to Practice It: 4 Steps 1. Observations Step one invokes observation instead of judgment. For instance, instead of saying “you often don’t listen when I’m speaking”, you could state a fact: “In our meeting today, I noticed that you were on your phone.” 2. Feelings Take responsibility for your feelings. Remember that the words and actions of others do not directly CAUSE your emotions, and that you can control how you respond to them. For example, in response to something like “you are so selfish”, you could practice NVC by… Considering your own needs and feelings: “When I hear you say that I am selfish, I feel hurt because I need some recognition of the effort I make to consider your preferences.” Considering the other person’s needs or feelings: “Are you feeling hurt because you need more consideration for your preferences?” 3. Needs Learn to look inside yourself for your particular “needs”. Outer expression of feelings, such as anger and frustration, are seen as indicators of needs, such as love and acceptance, that are unfulfilled. Users of NVC effectively communicate their needs while listening to the needs of others. 4. Requests Make specific, doable requests for things that enrich the requester’s life. Look for things that people can do rather than things they can’t. For example, you could say: “I’d like you to spend more time with me at home” rather than “I don’t want you to spend so much time at work.” If you’d like to learn more about NVC and the various tactics/resources used in NVC, please read the free, original article below! “Your Complete Non-Violent Communication Guide” by Joshua Schultz, Psy.D. Link: https://positivepsychology.com/non-violent-communication/#steps

Scroll Down for an English version of this article ⬇️ 隨著對心理健康問題的關注日益增加，了解相關法律保護尤其重要。 這篇文章旨在為心理健康患者及其家人提供關於加州和美國醫療及心理健康資訊隱私保護法律的關鍵資訊。 健康資訊的保護 健康保險攜帶與責任法案（HIPAA） HIPAA 是美國的一項聯邦法律，旨在保護個人的醫療資訊。 此法律要求醫療保健提供者保護患者健康資訊的隱私，並規定醫療資訊的使用和揭露條件。 重要的是，HIPAA 保障病患取得並更正其醫療記錄中的錯誤或不完整資訊的權利。 加州醫療資訊保密法（CMIA） CMIA 是加州的法律，進一步增強了 HIPAA 的聯邦保護。 它禁止未經授權的醫療資訊揭露，同時定義了廣泛的「醫療資訊」範疇，允許個人對因疏忽洩露機密資訊的實體採取法律行動。 患者權利 加州病患在其醫療記錄方面享有多項權利，包括查詢誰存取了他們的個人健康資訊的權利，以及對健康隱私法違規的投訴權利。 就業中的保護 美國殘疾人法案（ADA） ADA 是一項重要的聯邦法律，旨在保護殘疾人（包括精神健康問題人士）在就業、公共服務、公共住宿和電信方面免受歧視。 它確保有心理健康問題的個人在就業過程中不受歧視，包括招聘、晉升、工作分配、解僱和其他與就業相關的活動。 雇主也必須為身心障礙員工提供合理的便利，包括心理健康狀況，以履行基本的工作職能。 美國平等就業機會委員會（EEOC） 平等就業機會委員會是一個聯邦機構，負責執行 ADA 和其他禁止工作場所歧視的法律。 它提供指導和監督，以確保雇主遵守禁止基於殘疾（包括心理健康狀況）的歧視的法律。 雇主的責任和限制 根據 ADA 和 EEOC 指南，處理有心理健康問題的員工或求職者的雇主有特定的責任和限制： 評估能力，而不是健康狀況：雇主可以詢問候選人履行基本工作職能的能力，但不應直接詢問他們的心理健康狀況。 提供合理的住宿：如果員工因心理健康狀況需要特殊安排或支持，雇主應提供必要的工作調整。 維護員工隱私：與員工健康狀況相關的所有資訊均應保密。 避免歧視和偏見：雇主不得根據僱員的心理健康狀況做出歧視性的僱用決定。  如何尋求協助 如果您認為自己因心理健康狀況在工作中受到歧視，可以聯絡 EEOC 提出申訴。 EEOC 將進行調查，並在必要時提供法律救濟。 重要链接 健康保险携带与责任法案（HIPAA） www.hhs.gov/hipaa 加州医疗信息保密法（CMIA） oag.ca.gov 美国残疾人法案（ADA）信息 www.ada.gov 美国平等就业机会委员会（EEOC）官方网站 www.eeoc.gov Understanding California and US Mental Health Privacy Laws As society's awareness of mental health issues deepens, understanding the relevant legal protections becomes increasingly important. This article aims to provide key information on California and US laws concerning the privacy of medical and mental health information for individuals with mental health concerns and their families. Protection of Health Information Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) HIPAA is a crucial federal law in the US that sets standards for the protection of certain identifiable health information. This law mandates that healthcare providers who transmit health information electronically must safeguard patient privacy. It also regulates the use and disclosure of medical information, including requiring healthcare providers to accommodate patients' requests to access or correct their medical records. California Confidentiality of Medical Information Act (CMIA) The CMIA is a law in California that bolsters the federal protections provided by HIPAA. It prohibits healthcare providers, healthcare service plans, or contractors from disclosing medical information without authorization, except in specific circumstances. The law broadly defines "medical information" to include personally identifiable information held by healthcare providers or plans and allows individuals to take legal action against entities that negligently release confidential information. Patient Rights Patients in California have several rights regarding their medical records. These include the right to be informed about who has accessed their personal health information, the right to request and obtain copies of their medical records, and the right to file complaints about potential violations of health privacy laws. Protection in Employment Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) The ADA is a significant federal law designed to protect individuals with disabilities, including mental health conditions, from discrimination in employment, public services, public accommodations, and telecommunications. It ensures that individuals with mental health issues are not discriminated against in the employment process, including hiring, promotions, job assignments, termination, and other employment-related activities. Employers are also required to make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities, including mental health conditions, to perform essential job functions. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) The EEOC is a federal agency responsible for enforcing ADA and other laws prohibiting discrimination in the workplace. It provides guidance and oversight to ensure that employers comply with laws prohibiting discrimination based on disability, including mental health conditions. Employer Responsibilities and Limitations Under the ADA and EEOC guidelines, employers handling employees or job applicants with mental health issues have specific responsibilities and limitations: Evaluating Ability, Not Health Status: Employers may inquire about a candidate's ability to perform essential job functions but should not directly inquire about their mental health status. Providing Reasonable Accommodations: Employers should provide necessary work adjustments if an employee requires special arrangements or support due to a mental health condition. Maintaining Employee Privacy: All information related to an employee's health condition should be kept confidential. Avoiding Discrimination and Bias: Employers must not make discriminatory employment decisions based on an employee's mental health status. Seeking Assistance If you believe you have faced discrimination in the workplace due to a mental health condition, you can contact the EEOC to file a complaint. The EEOC investigates these complaints and provides legal remedies when necessary. Important Links and Resources HIPAA Official Website www.hhs.gov/hipaa California Confidentiality of Medical Information Act (CMIA) Information oag.ca.gov Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Information www.ada.gov Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Official Website www.eeoc.gov

Scroll Down for English version of this article 代際創傷是什麼？ 創傷通常指的是對災難性事件的不良情緒和身體反應。代際創傷是一種通過生物學、環境、心理學和社會事件傳遞下來的創傷。這種創傷可以在家庭內多代人之間傳遞，例如從祖父母到父母再到你自己。 代際創傷有哪些影響？ 代際創傷的一些跡象和症狀包括： 情緒困擾：缺乏自我價值、情感脫離、消極思想、羞愧 行為模式：避免衝突、責怪他人、易於吸毒、暴飲暴食、工作過度等 應對機制：不尋求幫助、避免感受、自我傷害和孤立 遭受代際創傷的人可能還會發展出如下健康狀況： 焦慮 抑鬱 心臟病 創傷後壓力症候群（PTSD） 代際創傷是如何產生和傳遞的？ 代際創傷通常是由影響特定群體的歷史事件或文化經歷引起的。例如，經歷過戰爭、種族滅絕或被迫遷移的家庭可能在養育孩子時承受這些創傷性事件的重擔，改變他們的行為或思維方式。 代際創傷甚至可能源於表觀遺傳變化，即由於創傷性經歷而導致的人的DNA變化。這些變化然後被傳給他們的孩子。例如，經歷了9/11的孕婦易患低皮質醇水平並發展為PTSD，這一特徵也在他們的孩子身上觀察到。 導致代際創傷的其他一些事件包括： 身體、情感和性虐待 種族主義 歧視 童年期間的不良經歷 悲傷和失落 應對策略和康復 代際創傷沒有特定的診斷。然而，這一現象在心理學家和精神健康專業人士中被廣泛接受。如果你正經歷代際創傷的創傷症狀，醫療保健提供者可以使用心理健康篩查。這項篩查包括一系列關於你的日常行為的問題，如食慾、感覺、心情和睡眠。然後他們可能會把你轉介給心理學家或精神病醫生來診斷焦慮、抑鬱或PTSD等心理疾病。 代際創傷的康復路徑對每個人來說都不同。許多人選擇心理治療或談話療法，它可以通過識別創傷是什麼以及如何有效應對來減輕創傷的影響。談話療法可以涉及個人和家庭治療。 由於代際創傷通常與一個人的文化背景有關，尋找能夠識別你特定文化的規範和信仰的心理健康專業人員非常有幫助。 許多心理健康小組專門訓練並致力於服務亞洲或中國群體。這樣的資源目錄可在我們的網站上找到： https://mhacc-usa.org/non-crisis-resource 如果你認為代際創傷影響了你的生活，我們鼓勵你尋求任何形式的支持。你並不孤單！ 參考文章和視頻： Video/視頻 走出抑鬱，破解代際創傷，“丟臉”文化对心理健康的負面影響/Wendy's Journey: Generational Trauma, Asian Culture Impacts https://youtu.be/WGd_rPmqvW4?si=kTw1u6Gl3mqRsqdD 电影「青春變形記」：揭開代際創傷之痛，尋求治癒： https://youtu.be/UNMv6ihS07M?si=TY8RlVOKMKOcx9tl 继承创伤的感觉是什么： https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s?__biz=MzIzNjEwMjQ5Nw==&mid=2247484545&idx=1&sn=61bcf909c57827207d66eb02747583f1&chksm=e8ddb28fdfaa3b990585f86616ebfd4f579305557761022c3b28702ad03e9db34923e37e04c4#rd 在中文中，我们有一个“丢脸”的概念，这就是我用笔名写这篇文章的原因： https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s?__biz=MzIzNjEwMjQ5Nw==&mid=2247484244&idx=1&sn=8f8d47435ee48acf3ebf9f76393a56c8&chksm=e8ddb55adfaa3c4ccdac7544e9f76b3ec8f359427b53edf4c9430d170859cddf85107bddd119#rd What is generational trauma? Trauma generally refers to adverse emotional and physical responses to a devastating event. Generational trauma is a type of trauma that is passed down through biological, environmental, psychological, and social means. This can be passed down over a span of multiple generations within a family, such as from grandparents to parents to yourself. What are the effects of generational trauma? Some signs and symptoms of generational trauma include: Shared emotional distress: lack of self worth, emotional detachment, negative thoughts, shame Shared behavioral patterns: avoiding conflicts, blaming others, susceptibility to drug usage, overeating, overworking, and more Shared coping mechanisms: not asking for help, avoiding feelings, self harm, and isolation Those who suffer from generational trauma may also develop health conditions such as: Anxiety Depression Heart Disease Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) How is generational trauma created and transferred? Generational trauma is often caused by historical events or shared cultural experiences that have profoundly affected a particular group of people. For example, families who have endured war, genocide, or forced migration may carry the weight of these traumatic events as they raise their children, altering their behavior or the way they think. Generational trauma can even stem from epigenetic changes, or shifts in a person’s DNA due to traumatic experiences. These changes are then passed down to one’s children. For instance, pregnant women who experienced 9/11 were susceptible to low cortisol levels and developed PTSD, a trait that is also observed in their children. Some other examples of events that can result in generational trauma include: Physical, emotional, and sexual abuse Racism Discrimination Adverse experiences during childhood Grief and loss Coping Strategies and Healing There is no specific diagnosis of generational trauma. Still, the phenomenon is well-accepted amongst psychologists and health professionals. If you are experiencing symptoms of generational trauma, a healthcare provider can use a mental health screening. This screening consists of a set of questions about your day-to-day behaviors, such as appetite, feelings, mood, and sleep. They may then refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist to diagnose mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. The path towards healing from generational trauma is different for everyone. An option that many look to is psychotherapy or talk therapy, which can lessen the effects of trauma by recognizing what it is and how to effectively cope with it. Talk therapy can involve individual and family therapy. Because generational trauma is commonly tied with one’s cultural background, seeking mental health professionals that are competent at recognizing your specific culture’s norms and beliefs is incredibly helpful. Many mental health groups are specially trained and dedicate themselves to serving Asian or Chinese groups. A catalog of such resources are available on our website at the link below: https://mhacc-usa.org/non-crisis-resource We encourage you to seek any kind of support if you believe generational trauma is impacting your life. You are not alone! Sources Credit: Joyce Hesselberth https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-parents-rsquo-trauma-leaves-biological-traces-in-children/ https://www.health.com/condition/ptsd/generational-trauma#toc-examples-of-generational-trauma https://www.liberationhealingseattle.com/blog-trauma-therapist/generational-trauma-asian-families#:~:text=In%20Asian%20families%2C%20generational%20trauma,ways%20within%20the%20family%20unit . https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-parents-rsquo-trauma-leaves-biological-traces-in-children/

SAD | Winter Depression: Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder SAD｜冬季抑郁症：了解季节性情感障碍

Q: 什麼是5150？ 答: 加州福利與機構法典的5150條款授權對個體進行最長72小時的非自願拘留，這通常發生在因心理健康問題而對自己或他人構成危險，或者嚴重失能的情況下。需要滿足以下條件之一：1）患者可能會傷害自己；2）患者可能會傷害他人；3）患者無法滿足自己的基本生活需求。 5150 通常涉及執法或其他緊急服務人員的介入。 在72小時期間，個人將在精神病院接受心理健康專業人員的評估和治療。 主要目標是提供穩定護理、進行深入評估、啟動治療並確定是否需要長期非自願承諾。 如果在這 72 小時內的任何時間，心理健康專家確定該人不再符合 5150 拘留的標準，則必須將其釋放。 Q: 什麼是5250？ 答: 5250條款允許在5150條款下最初72小時拘留期之後額外延長14天的非自願拘留。 當精神科醫生或執照心理學家發現個體仍然存在重大危險或由於心理健康問題仍然嚴重失能時，可以採取此延長措施。 嚴重失能涉及無法照顧自己的基本需要，包括食物、衣物或住所。 Q: 5150條款72小時後，如何進入5250條款？ 答: 要啟動 5250 拘留，精神病機構必須在個人仍處於 5150 拘留期間進行認證審查聽證會。 他們必須提供證據證明該人繼續對自己或他人構成危險，或因精神健康障礙而嚴重殘疾。 如果聽證官同意，該人可以再被拘留最多 14 天接受治療。 在此過程中，個人將被告知其權利以及延長保留的原因。 Q：在5250條款下患者有什麼權利？ 答： 在5250條款下，患者有權在拘留開始後的四天內進行認證審查聽證會，以此質疑拘留。 此外，患者在此過程中有權獲得法律代表，以確保其權利受到保護，且拘留的必要性得到合理評估。 Q：什麼是AB 1424法案？ 答： AB 1424法案要求心理健康專業人員在評估個體是否符合5150或5250條款下非自願承諾的標準時，考慮更廣泛的信息，包括患者的歷史和來自家庭成員及看護人的輸入。 這種全面的方法有助於臨床醫生更全面地了解患者的心理狀態和行為歷史。 Q：在根據5150條款召喚執法部門處理心理健康緊急情況時應注意什麼？ 答： 在心理健康緊急情況下涉及執法部門時，至關重要的是要清晰、冷靜地描述情況和個體的情緒狀態。 為了安全，清除現場潛在的武器很重要。 事先準備，包括提前完成AB 1424表格，可以幫助有效、安全地處理情況。 也需重視使用緩和技巧和清晰的溝通，以傳達危機的心理健康性質。 Q: 什麼是臨時監護權和永久監護權？ 答: 經過5250條款規定的17天之後，病人可能進入為期30天的「臨時監護權」程序。 在這個階段，患者必須符合上述的第二和第三條件。 30天后，患者可能進入為期一年的“永久監護權”，並且每年進行複審和更新。 監護權基本上是剝奪一個人的自由和權力，需要經過複雜的法律和法院程序。 Q: 監護權的特殊條件是什麼？ 答: 監護權的設立必須基於無人願意為當事人提供基本生活需求的情況。 如果當事人能找到人提供生活支持，或願意接受庇護所安排，則監護權不成立。 如果當事人有能力作為無家可歸者生活，就不符合「嚴重失能」的定義。監護權不是家屬自己可以申請的家屬可以和医師/社工提出要求，家屬可以和医師/社工提出要求。 Q：什麼是CARE法庭法案？ 答： CARE法庭法案引入了一種新的框架，旨在為嚴重心理疾病的個體提供更全面的支持。 它專注於創建個人化的治療計劃，並確保獲得必要的社會和醫療服務。 該法案旨在填補現有心理健康護理系統的空白，為患者提供更全面的照護方式。 這是現在Care Court 的法案供參考： https://www.chhs.ca.gov/care-act/ 註： 本文資訊特定於加州法律。 不同州和地區的法律規定可能有所不同。 在處理心理健康危機時，始終應諮詢當地的法律專家和醫療專業人員。 雖然本文提供了一般信息，但具體案例需要有資格的專業人士處理。 AB424表格: AB1424 Alameda County (English/英文): https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B1mjz02FtuU_UGc3VWxjQ2pjRzg/edit?resourcekey=0-ENvwYqyhSvmidQKZQybLdA AB1424 Santa Clara County (English/英文): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QO4lINc-cgVpiN68P909Q37hPNEckAi2/view AB1424 Santa Clara County (Chinese/中文): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LPN9yoGnpFyP5q-CeurbYetiasdUgjkj/view 授權釋放患者信息表格 (English/英文): https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/formsandpubs/forms/Forms/Mental_Health/DHCS_1811.pdf 注意: 如果患者超過18歲，除非有授權，否則醫生可能不會透露患者的信息。然而，家屬仍然可以提供信息來幫助診斷。 Q: What is a 5150? A: The 5150 provision in the California Welfare and Institutions Code authorizes up to 72 hours of involuntary detention for an individual, typically occurring when mental health issues pose a danger to themselves or others, or result in serious disability. One of the following conditions must be met: 1) The patient may harm themselves; 2) The patient may harm others; 3) The patient is unable to meet their basic life needs. A 5150 usually involves intervention by law enforcement or other emergency service personnel. During the 72-hour period, the individual will be evaluated and treated by mental health professionals at a psychiatric facility. The main goals are to provide stabilization care, conduct an in-depth evaluation, initiate treatment, and determine if long-term involuntary commitment is necessary. If at any time during these 72 hours, mental health experts determine that the person no longer meets the criteria for a 5150 hold, they must be released. Q: What is a 5250? A: The 5250 provision allows for an additional 14 days of involuntary detention following the initial 72-hour period under the 5150 provision. This extension can be implemented when a psychiatrist or licensed psychologist finds the individual still poses a significant danger or remains gravely disabled due to mental health issues. Grave disability involves being unable to take care of one's basic needs, including food, clothing, or shelter. Q: How do you transition from 5150 to 5250 after 72 hours? A: To initiate a 5250 hold, the psychiatric facility must conduct a certification review hearing while the individual is still under the 5150 hold. They must provide evidence that the person continues to be a danger to themselves or others, or is gravely disabled due to a mental health disorder. If the hearing officer agrees, the individual can be held for up to an additional 14 days of treatment. During this process, the individual will be informed of their rights and the reasons for the extended hold. Q: What rights does a patient have under the 5250 provision? A: Under the 5250 provision, patients have the right to a certification review hearing within four days of detention to challenge the detention. Moreover, patients are entitled to legal representation during this process to ensure their rights are protected and the necessity of detention is reasonably assessed. Q: What is the AB 1424 bill? A: The AB 1424 bill requires mental health professionals to consider a broader range of information when assessing whether an individual meets the criteria for involuntary commitment under the 5150 or 5250 provisions. This includes the patient's history and input from family members and caregivers. This comprehensive approach helps clinicians better understand the patient's mental state and behavioral history. Q: What should be considered when involving law enforcement in a mental health emergency under the 5150 provision? A: In mental health emergencies involving law enforcement, it is crucial to describe the situation and the individual's emotional state clearly and calmly. Removing potential weapons from the scene for safety is important. Preparations, including completing the AB 1424 form in advance, can help handle the situation effectively and safely. Emphasizing de-escalation techniques and clear communication to convey the mental health nature of the crisis is also necessary. Q: What are temporary and permanent conservatorship? A: After the 17 days prescribed under the 5250 provision, a patient may enter a 30-day "temporary conservatorship" process. In this stage, the patient must meet the second and third conditions mentioned above. After 30 days, the patient may enter a one-year "permanent conservatorship," subject to annual review and renewal. Conservatorship essentially strips an individual of their freedom and rights and requires a complex legal and court process. Q: What are the special conditions for conservatorship? A: Conservatorship must be established based on the absence of anyone willing to provide basic life needs for the individual. If someone can provide support or the individual is willing to accept shelter arrangements, conservatorship does not stand. If the individual can live as a homeless person, they do not meet the definition of 'gravely disabled'. Family members cannot apply for conservatorship themselves but can request it from doctors/social workers. Q: What is the CARE Court Act? A: The CARE Court Act introduces a new framework aimed at providing more comprehensive support for individuals with severe mental illnesses. It focuses on creating personalized treatment plans and ensuring access to necessary social and medical services. The Act aims to fill gaps in the existing mental health care system, offering more comprehensive care for patients. For reference, here is the current Care Court Act: https://www.chhs.ca.gov/care-act/ Note: This information is specific to California law. Laws may vary in different states and regions. Always consult local legal experts and medical professionals when handling mental health crises. While this article provides general information, specific cases require handling by qualified professionals.

A mental health crisis is a time-sensitive situation that requires immediate attention. But when you or someone you know is experiencing one, which number should you dial: 988 or 911?