A school nurse is assisting in the planning a presentation on identifying potential warning signs of suicide for high school students. Which of the following examples of behaviors should the nurse include in the presentation?

A. Splitting is a defense mechanism commonly used by clients with borderline personality disorder. It involves viewing people or situations as entirely good or entirely bad, leading to rapidly shifting opinions and emotional reactions. This black-and-white thinking can create division among healthcare providers, as the client may idealize one staff member while devaluing another, causing conflict within the team.
B. Reaction formation occurs when a person expresses the opposite of their true feelings, often due to discomfort with their actual emotions. While seen in some personality disorders, it is not a hallmark feature of borderline personality disorder and does not typically contribute to team division.
C. Denial involves refusing to acknowledge reality or facts that cause distress. Though common in various mental health conditions, it does not specifically create division among healthcare providers in the way splitting does. Clients with borderline personality disorder may use denial, but it is not their primary defense mechanism.
D. Regression is a defense mechanism where an individual reverts to earlier developmental behaviors in response to stress. While it can be seen in borderline personality disorder, it does not typically lead to splitting within the healthcare team, as it primarily affects the client’s own coping mechanisms rather than interpersonal dynamics.

A. Diagnosis typically occurs after 40 years of age. Diagnosis typically occurs in late adolescence to early adulthood, not after 40 years of age. While late-onset schizophrenia can occur, it is less common. The disorder usually manifests in the late teens to early 30s, with males often presenting earlier than females.
B. Life expectancy is greater than the general population. Life expectancy is lower than the general population due to factors such as increased risk of suicide, cardiovascular disease, and reduced access to healthcare. The presence of comorbid conditions and lifestyle factors, including smoking and poor diet, further contribute to a shorter lifespan.
C. Co-occurring mental health illnesses are rarely diagnosed. Co-occurring mental health illnesses are frequently diagnosed in individuals with schizophrenia. Conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders are common. These comorbidities can complicate treatment and impact overall prognosis.
D. The need for resources increases as the disease progresses into adulthood. The need for resources increases as the disease progresses into adulthood due to worsening functional impairment. Individuals with schizophrenia often require long-term support, including medication management, social services, and rehabilitation programs to maintain stability and quality of life.