Key Ideas and Facts:

1. The Importance of Active Patient Participation in Healthcare Decisions:

The booklet emphasizes that most surgeries are non-emergency, giving patients enough time to learn about the procedure and ensure it is the best option for them.

It encourages patients to be "active in their healthcare to receive good care."

It recommends bringing a friend or relative to help talk with the doctor and understand the information.

It notes that "research shows that patients who are well-informed about their treatment are more satisfied with their outcomes."

2. Key Questions to Ask Before Surgery:

Reason for the Need for Surgery: "Why do I need surgery?"

The doctor should explain "the purpose of the procedure" and how it will help resolve the medical issue.

Make sure you understand how the proposed procedure will help resolve your medical issue."

Description of the Proposed Surgery: "What procedure do you recommend?"

The surgeon should explain the procedure and how it will be performed, and may provide a step-by-step diagram.

"Ask your surgeon to explain the surgery and how it's performed. Your surgeon may draw a picture or diagram and explain the steps of the surgery."

Surgical alternatives: "Are there alternatives to surgery?"

Other treatments, such as medications or lifestyle changes, should be discussed, and their benefits and risks compared to surgery should be evaluated.

"Sometimes, surgery isn't the only solution to a medical problem. Medication or other non-surgical treatments, such as diet changes or special exercises, may help just as much—or more."

"Watchful waiting" is mentioned as a possible alternative.

Surgical cost: "How much will the surgery cost?"

Inquire about the surgeon's and hospital's fees and other potential costs, as well as health insurance coverage.

"Even if you have health insurance, there may be some costs you will have to pay."

It is recommended to contact your insurance company before the procedure to understand coverage.

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This booklet from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) provides comprehensive information about bipolar disorder in adults. It covers the disorder's definition, symptoms, long-term effects, contributing factors, diagnosis and treatment, and how to help others with it.

What is bipolar disorder?

Definition: “Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out daily tasks.”

Severity: Symptoms are severe and differ from normal mood swings.

Impact: This can lead to “damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide.”

Treatment: “But bipolar disorder is treatable, and people with the condition can live full and productive lives.”

Age: It usually develops in the late teens or early adulthood, with at least half of cases beginning before age 25.

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Anxiety Disorders Brief (National Institute of Mental Health)

General Topic: This booklet provides comprehensive information about anxiety disorders, including their different types, symptoms, possible causes, effective treatments, and how to get help.

Key Points:

Prevalence: Anxiety disorders are common, affecting about 40 million American adults (about 18%) each year.

Duration and Impact: Different from transient anxiety caused by stressful events, anxiety disorders last at least 6 months and can get worse without treatment.

Comorbidity: Anxiety disorders often occur along with other mental or physical health conditions, such as alcohol or drug abuse, which can mask or worsen anxiety symptoms.

Effective Treatment Available: Effective treatments are available, and research is ongoing to develop new treatments. "Effective therapies for anxiety disorders are available, and research is uncovering new treatments that can help most people with anxiety disorders lead productive, fulfilling lives."

Types of Anxiety Disorders Discussed:

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