Crazy Genius: Recognizing and Addressing Mental Health Issues in High-IQ Populations
(Room Valley of the Sun)
07 Jul 19
12:00 PM
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1:15 PM
This presentation focuses on engaging with others who have mental illnesses (diagnosed or suspected) in a compassionate and productive manner. By addressing the correlation between high IQ and mental illness, we can understand ourselves and fellow Mensans better and foster a healthier community. Rory Bristol will demonstrate mental health first aid skills anyone can use to save or improve the lives of others or themselves. Topics covered are based on personal experience and education. Subtopics include identifying mental health crises in yourself and others; stigma and avoiding shame/blame in order to keep the conversation open and productive; the correlation between high IQ and mental illness; the importance of mental health first aid, a course available nationwide; the value (or lack thereof) of diagnosing/ruling out of mental illnesses as part of treating other illnesses; taking charge of your own mental health treatment plan; reviewing your own prejudices and learned stigma around mental health; education in evaluating how mental illness affects high IQ populations; and how to initiate awkward mental health conversations with others.