Mental health treatment discussions have become extremely underrated in a world where the focus of people has currently shifted to surviving by focusing more on their physical health and its aspects like diet, exercise and sleep. But what they don’t know is that the health of the mind is what powers it all.
Understanding Mental Health Treatment and Why It Matters?
Nearly 1 in 5 adults in US experience a mental health disorder each year, however very few receive proper treatment. Depression, Anxiety, Burnout, Trauma, Bipolar Mood Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorders and Emotional Exhaustion have become a norm and hence it is important for the people to start realizing that caring for the mind is as essential as caring for the body.
According to National Institute of Mental Health 80% of the people who receive the right mental health treatment experience significant improvement in their symptoms within a span of few months. Early diagnosis and intervention doesn’t only prevent the agony but also prevents the condition from worsening into something that is chronic or may cause disability.
In today’s world, where so many people struggle with mental health conditions, seeking professional help shows courage and not weakness.
Types of Mental Health Treatments
Mental health professionals offer several different types of treatments, However, the best approach combines multiple therapies to meet each individual’s needs.
Below are some of the most common Mental Health Treatments:
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy refers to the treatment of mental conditions by verbal communication and interaction, Also known as “Talk Therapy”. It allows an individual to consult a trained therapist in order to reflect and explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Psychotherapy further involves:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This therapy teaches you to change how you think and act. It helps you get over unhealthy behaviors and negative thinking patterns.
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): This type of therapy is often suitable for individuals who often find it hard to regulate their emotions, feel them too intensely. DBT has proven to be effective for mental conditions like borderline personality disorder, eating disorder, depression, anxiety and self harm.
- Psycho-dynamic Therapy: Psycho-dynamic therapy focuses on the psychological roots of emotional suffering.It focuses on learning how a persons subconscious thoughts, feelings and memories that are affecting their current behavior.
Medication Management
In some cases and in some individuals when things start getting out of control and therapy is no longer an option, it becomes important for psychiatrists to prescribe medications according to the patients condition. Medicines like anti-depressants, mood stabilizers, and anti anxiety drugs then go hand in hand with therapy.
Group Therapy and Support Groups
Another important mental health treatment includes group therapy or support groups. These groups have multiple individuals who are going through similar situations or mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma or addiction. They come together in a supportive and safe environment because sometimes healing happens best in a community or when you do not feel like you are the only one going through a specific situation.
Lifestyle Based Treatments
Some people like to look far beyond clinical therapy and they instead choose options that are more relieving, give them peace and strengthen their mind and body connection. These Options include:
- Meditation
- Art or Music Therapy
- Sports/Physical Activity
- Yoga
- Breathing Exercises
None of these methods can replace medical treatment or clinical therapies but they do compliment them by reducing stress and promoting long term mental wellness.
Inpatient or Residential Treatment
People with severe mental health conditions who no longer respond to treatments like therapy or medication, turn to this last straw where they are kept under intensive care for 24/7. Patients are provided with services like one on one counselling, Rehabilitation, Intensive therapy and facilities like meals and accommodation etc.
Benefits of Mental Health Treatment
Mental Health treatment is important as it can transform lives. It is something far more than just visiting a therapist or taking medication. It is all about choosing to heal, rebuild, rediscover and walking towards the path that leads back to you. Receiving the right help and support can help people:
- Thrive
- Cope Better
- Communicate Effectively
- Rebuild Relationships affected due to Emotional Distress
- Improve Daily Functioning
- Restore Emotional Balance
- Increase Productivity and Focus
- Long-term Persistence
How to Find the Right Mental Health Care?
It is always overwhelming and difficult to accept the fact that you need help, But always remember taking help doesn’t make you weak it means you are strong enough to face something that others choose to hide. It is the first step to healing. Here is a step by step guide to help you find the best mental health care:
Assess your needs
Ask yourself what kind of help do you need? Are you having trouble fighting anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders , burnout or any other serious mental health condition? Identifying symptoms will help you find the right specialist.
Finding the right mental health professional
It is important to choose the right professional to go to according to your symptoms:
- Psychiatrist: A medical specialist who can identify and treat mental illness with the help of medications.
- Psychologist: Specializes in Psycho-therapy and emotional healing.
- Counselor or Social Worker: A trained professional who can assist and guide you to cope up with daily life challenges and struggles.
Check Credentials and Experience
Always choose licensed professionals who have experience dealing with all kinds of patients. Remember a good therapist will never judge you, but instead will always make you feel safe and keep your private information confidential. If you don’t find yourself comfortable even after a few sessions, it is never too late to switch.
Involve Family and Close Friends
Your loved ones supporting and having your back through this tough time will give you will-power and make it easier for you to continue with your treatment, Because at the end of the day its the thought and words of affirmation and encouragement from your loved ones that counts.
Despite multiple platforms and NGOs raising awareness, the stigma around mental health still prevents many people from seeking help. Even the smallest of things like finding a mental healthcare provider nearby has become a huge task. Despite all the challenges it is important to know that mental health treatment is a journey which will lead you to a better quality of life if you look at the long-term benefits. Taking the right approach will not only heal you but will also help you thrive. If you or someone you know is suffering from any mental health condition, reach out for help instantly because healing begins with that one decision you take to care for your mind. Explore further insights on mental health treatment: https://www.quora.com/What-is-something-I-can-start-doing-today-to-improve-my-mental-health-overall/answer/Zohra-Kazim
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