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Benjamin Reed (University of Missouri)
Domestic Story
Gold
Domestic Picture Story
Domestic Picture Story
Because of a series of national health care cuts, the mental health community has sought to move patient care from state institutions into the community as part of the rehabilitation process. Drop-in centers and boarding homes, often non-profit, have assumed responsibility. This project examines the world of Donald Mabe, a 55 year old man in St. Joseph, Mo., who has been in and out of mental institutions for as long as anyone can remember. Although somewhat isolated inside the mental health community, Mabe seems most comfortable in one of the only environments he's ever known.
Story: Domestic Story
A Solitary Mind - Donald
Donald Mabe, 55, has been in and out of mental institutions for as long as anyone can remember. In addition to bipolar disorder, Donald suffers from mental retardation and hypertension.
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Story: Domestic Story
The Lounge
When no activities are planned at Oaktree Manor, the boarding home where Mabe lives, most clients spend time in their rooms or in front of the television. Mabe joined others in the common area during the Easter season to watch a National Geographic Channel Easter special. He would occasionally sing along with the music. Some of the patients responded by shouting, 'Shut up Donald!' He kept singing.
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Story: Domestic Story
Repent
Mabe seeks refuge in a community center dining hall for the mentally ill after being interrogated by the staff for stealing a woman's packet of cigarettes. The packet also contained her anti-psychotic drugs. Mabe refused to answer any questions and walked away when anyone spoke to him. 'I'm a good man, I believe in God, I repent...I'm a good man, I believe in God, I repent,' he said repeatedly.
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Story: Domestic Story
Smoke
Smoke often fills the recreation room at Oaktree Manor, Donald's boarding home. Clients are permitted to take cigarette breaks every hour and most of them do. The patients rarely speak to each other. On occasion the smoke alarm will be set off, especially if the window is left closed.
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Story: Domestic Story
Broken Communication
Mabe stares at the boarding home pay phone for nearly three minutes. His remaining family members haven't contacted him in over ten years. Mabe's legal guardian says his family doesn't get along with him, citing his unpredictable behavior as a hindrance to their companionship.
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Story: Domestic Story
The Outside World
Mabe lifts the curtains in his room and holds his thumb to the outside world. A grass filled lot is on the other side. His exposure to stimulation outside the mental health community is minimal, yet he seems at peace inside the only community he knows.
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