This is an interesting way to use Video Game technology: Virtual world teaches real-world skills. I think this could be very effective for mental disorders that make socializing difficult as well. It is too bad that most people with severe mental disabilities do not often have computer access. Unfortunately such people often lack the resources to own computers. Many with severe mental illness can not even afford the medications they need to live more productive lives. Such medications are very expensive and everyone does not have medical caregivers who are willing to help fill out the necessary paperwork to get aid from the pharmaceutical companies, as I am so fortunate to have. This is a failing in our healthcare system that needs to be eradicated. I know that with proper medication and counseling that people with severe mental illness can live rewarding lives, I am proof of this. Having the ability to explore art, writing and computing helps me stay "sane", too.
What I would really like to do is go to school and get a degree in Art Therapy. I want to help other people with serious mental illnesses and diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, but college is beyond my reach financially. I do think that I may be able to volunteer with some of the people who go to my psychiatrist’s office, but the problem with doing it is that they may not be able to afford the necessary supplies. Art supplies are expensive and I cannot provide them to others.
My counselor and I have been discussing what I may be able to do to fulfill my need to feel I contribute to society. I know the art could be particularly beneficial in the groups I mentioned because I have seen improvement in my mother since I helped her learn to paint. She no longer sits in a chair and watches television all day and her fine motor skills are better. She also seems less depressed because she is accomplishing something with her days.
Often art and writing are good self-therapy. They help people get in touch with their emotions and sometimes that is one of the hardest things to accomplish with these populations. The thing is if these people had access to such opportunities many of them would progress to happier, healthier lives.
Okay, I need to get off the podium now and go back to whatever I should do for the next while. Thanks for visiting.
TTYL,
Jo Ann
Chronicles 