Mental health treatment involves an individual's ability to change unhealthy thought patterns, identify mental disorders, and develop new coping strategies. Psychotherapy and medication may be used to treat many types of mental disorders. People may also try self-help to help maintain their health and well-being.
A mental health diagnosis is made based on several steps, including a medical examination, psychological evaluation, and physical exam. Mental illness symptoms vary from person to person and include changes in emotion, behavior, and thinking. The severity of a person's symptoms can impact the amount of treatment necessary to maintain their health. Treatment can be provided by a healthcare provider, a counselor, or a support group.
Many people with serious mental illness did not receive needed care in the past year. Approximately one in five adults is affected by a mental disorder at some point in their lives. In addition, nearly half of children age 8 to 13 do not receive treatment. Despite the prevalence of mental illnesses, cultural attitudes about treatment are often a barrier to seeking care. This can be particularly true for minority groups.
In the U.S., mental health problems are more common among adolescents, women, and the unemployed. These groups have higher unmet mental health needs than the general population. While some behavioral health disorders are treatable with medications, others require longer-term therapy. For people who are uninsured or have limited health insurance, unmet mental health needs can be expensive.
Behavioral disorders can also interfere with a person's ability to perform at work or school. Children who have mental health problems are more likely to be placed in the juvenile justice system. It's important to remember that even though a child may have a behavioral disorder, the disorder itself is not a reason to be a danger to himself or herself. There are effective treatments available for most disorders.
During a psychotherapy session, a trained counselor or therapist will give a client the time and space to talk about their emotions. They can offer a safe place for clients to express feelings, to think about their life, and to consider coping skills.
When a person is diagnosed with a behavioral health disorder, a therapist can help the client understand the condition and provide effective solutions to help improve their physical and emotional health. In addition, a therapist can provide a sounding board for patients to discuss their concerns with other professionals.
Mental health treatment includes a combination of medication, counseling, and other therapies. Depending on the illness, some individuals need overnight stays in a hospital while others may be able to work with a counselor at home. Talking to a therapist can be especially helpful during tough times.
People with mental illnesses often feel ashamed and fearful of receiving treatment. Getting a mental health diagnosis can be difficult, but it is the first step in treating a disorder. After that, you can choose what treatment works best for you. Often, medications can help control symptoms, while therapy can promote recovery and decrease morbidity.
