Studies have shown that 1 in every 8 people are living with a mental health disorder. Considering how many people are dealing with this, it’s important to know how to treat them. Remember that with the right medical treatment, controlling the symptoms that come with these disorders is very doable.
What are Mental Health Disorders?
Everyone has times in their life where they struggle with their emotions. This is not to say everyone has a mental health disorder. Mental health disorders are when your thoughts and emotions are so hard to control that they start to affect your everyday life. These disorders can include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, & more. Understanding these disorders is the first step toward effective treatment. Remember that having a mental health disorder is not something to be ashamed of but it should be taken seriously.
Common Symptoms
The most common symptoms of mental health disorders include:
- Persistent sadness
- Excessive fear
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Changes in eating and sleeping patterns
- Difficulty concentrating
- Hopelessness
- Unexplained physical ailments
Types of Medical Treatment
Medication
Getting medication for a mental health disorder can really help people. There are several different kinds of medications out there that treat each disorder, including antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, mood stabilizers, & antipsychotics. Each type of medication targets specific symptoms & conditions. For example, antidepressants can help alleviate symptoms of depression by balancing chemicals in the brain. While mood stabilizers are used to manage bipolar disorder by preventing extreme mood swings. Since everyone’s responses to medications can vary, working with a healthcare provider to find the right one is crucial.
Psychotherapy
Also known as talk therapy, psychotherapy involves working with a mental health professional to address emotional & psychological issues. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), & other forms of therapy help patients develop coping strategies & change negative thought patterns. CBT focuses on identifying & changing distorted thoughts & behaviors. DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices. These therapies can be conducted individually or in group settings. Group settings can provide a supportive environment for sharing experiences & learning new skills.
Hospitalization & Rehab
In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to ensure safety & provide intensive treatment. Rehab centers, like 12 South Recovery, offer structured environments for recovery that combine medical treatment with therapeutic support. This addresses both mental health & substance use disorders. Hospitalization can provide immediate care & stabilization for acute symptoms. Rehab programs offer ongoing support & education to help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms & lifestyle changes.
Emerging Treatments
Innovative treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) are promising for individuals who don’t respond to traditional treatments. These therapies target brain activity to alleviate symptoms. TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. This aims to improve symptoms of depression. ECT, though often misunderstood, can be highly effective for severe depression & other conditions when other treatments have failed. These treatments offer hope for those seeking alternative options.
Creating a Treatment Plan
Assessment & Diagnosis
A thorough assessment by a mental health professional is crucial to diagnose a specific disorder. An assessment will also show what the individual needs specifically. This can involve interviews and questionnaires. The assessment process helps identify the severity of the disorder & any co-occurring conditions. Co-occurring disorders can be a substance use disorder or physical health issues.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Treatment plans are tailored to the individual. They combine medication, therapy, & lifestyle changes. Regular follow-ups & adjustments ensure that the treatment plan is still effective. A personalized plan considers the individual’s history & response to previous treatments in order to get the most effective & sustainable approach. Incorporating healthy lifestyle changes can also significantly impact mental health.
Support Systems
A strong support system is typically one’s family and friends or support groups. At 12 South Recovery, we emphasize the importance of a supportive community in the healing process. Support systems provide emotional encouragement and practical assistance. They also help keep the individual accountable and motivated in their treatment. Support groups offer a platform to share experiences, learn from others, & feel less isolated.
Contact Our Team
Understanding & assessing the proper medical treatment for mental health can transform lives. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to seek help. Please share this post to spread awareness & contact the team at 12 South Recovery to learn more about our comprehensive treatment programs.
