Treating the Whole Person Brings Results

Although efforts to screen and educate Tri-County consumers about diabetes are a visible success, they are not the only physical health efforts at the mental health center.

Screening for the Metabolic Syndrome, which is a combination of medical disorders, is a process that can assist in predicting the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The metabolic screening process includes measuring: body mass index, hypertension, lipid panels, cholesterol/trigylcerides, HDL and LDL, blood glucose, and/HgbA1C.

Studies have shown that the mental health population has a 20-25 years earlier mortality rate than the general population. Often the cause of death is related to cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

“We are looking for anything unhealthy in their cholesterol, triglycerides, or a high body mass index,” explained staff psychiatrist Parimal B. Purohit, M.D. “We do it up front with new consumers, so we know what’s going on with them. Those conditions can affect them in many ways.”

Health education is provided after the screening process is completed. Evidence shows that with early screening and early treatment intervention, health complications can be reduced or even prevented, just as with everyone.

“Our consumers are like everyone,” he said. “Their activity level may not be that good so their cholesterol will go up. Or, they don’t eat right.”

And like everyone else, they also can find change is a challenge. “It can be hard to listen to things that suggest you change your lifestyle,” Dr. Purohit said. “Some people gain tremendously after making even small changes. They have changes of mood, physical problems go away or get better—it can be tremendous. It works!”

Return to Article Index | Return to Newsletter Index

---