Reflections on the Arizona Shooting

Even as Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords is transferred to a rehabilitation facility, the tragic shooting spree in Arizona that killed six and wounded 13 is still fresh in the nation’s consciousness. The horrific incident has led to much speculation about whether anything could have been done to stop 22-year-old suspect Jared Lee Loughner.

In the days since the shooting, Loughner’s father, friends and former community college classmates have come forward. They paint a picture of another tragedy, a young man dealing with serious mental health issues. 

There were enough complaints at college that Loughner was suspended and warned not to come back without a mental health evaluation. There were also postings attributed to Loughner on websites including MySpace and YouTube that one expert told CNN show "classic signs of psychosis." Loughner’s own father admits his son was “out of control” prior to the incident.

Forensic psychologist Kathy Seifert told CNN that Loughner’s postings were "absolutely psychotic," adding that he should have been evaluated for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autism or other mental illnesses.

Other reports – including a hospital visit for alcohol poisoning, an arrest for possession of drug paraphernalia and a failed attempt to enlist in the Army due to a positive drug test -- suggest that Loughner may have turned to illicit drugs and alcohol in an attempt to self-medicate. This is common among those with mental health issues, leading to what experts refer to as co-occurring disorders (when addiction is paired with another disorder that precipitates or aggravates the substance use).

Obviously, many individuals with mental health problems aren’t violent, and it would be an added tragedy if Loughner’s actions were to make the public afraid of harmless individuals who are struggling valiantly against a mental health disorder. The focus now is on justice for the victims and to find positive outcomes from this senseless tragedy. Increased understanding of mental health issues and addiction can be part of that if people will only make the effort.

Co-occurring Disorder Treatment

If you or someone you love is battling an addiction paired with a mental health issue, call La Paloma at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.