What Is The Most Effective Treatment For Mental Illness?

The most effective treatments for mental illness include psychotherapy and medication.

If you or a loved one suffer from mental health problems, you may require treatment. To determine the most effective type of treatment, a mental health professional must first determine the severity of your mental health condition.

The treatment option most effective for you will depend on your diagnosis and the symptoms associated with your mental health disorder. A long or short-term treatment plan may be needed which can include combined treatment.

Mental Health Medications

For certain mental health issues, there are medications that can be helpful to prevent symptoms associated with the illness. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), mental health medications may include:

• antidepressants
• antipsychotic
• anti-anxiety medications
• mood stabilizers
• stimulants

For some, side effects of medications may rule out certain mental health problems. Contact your doctor right away if you experience any serious side effects associated with your medication.

Psychotherapy

There are various types of psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or “talk therapy.” Psychotherapy is an effective form of treatment which may come in the form of individual, group, or family therapy.

During therapy sessions, you learn how to relieve symptoms associated with your illness as well as find solutions if you have problems coping with difficult emotions. You can develop specific problem-solving strategies with the help of a mental health professional.

Additionally, you can learn to recognize warning signs associated with depressive or manic episodes if you suffer from bipolar disorder.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a type of therapy that sends electric currents in the brain. This form of treatment may only be necessary in extreme cases, such as those diagnosed with schizophrenia or major depression.

This brain stimulation therapy can be used if other treatment options have proven unsuccessful.

Support Groups

Support groups allow you to learn from the experiences of others regarding their history of mental illness. A mental health support group is a safe space for you to speak honestly about your mental health struggles.

Numerous support groups can be helpful, allowing you to gain insight into your condition. These groups also offer a sense of community and support network which is important for anyone struggling with a mental health disorder.

Inpatient Treatment

If you suffer from a mental health and a substance use disorder, you may require extensive treatment. Those in need of extensive mental health treatment can consider inpatient care.

With inpatient treatment, you will remain on-site at a treatment center 24/7. This allows you access to healthcare professionals and medications needed during treatment.

In extreme cases in which a person experiences psychosis, they require inpatient care.

Types Of Mental Illness

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) states mental illnesses include:

• bipolar disorder
• anxiety disorders such as panic disorder
• eating disorders
• major depressive disorder
• schizophrenia
• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• borderline personality disorder (BPD)

Symptoms Of Mental Illness

Because mental illness can create symptoms of depression and anxiety, there are a range of symptoms associated with mental illness, including:

• a decline in physical health
• psychosis
• change in appetite
• irritability
• mood swings
• frequent crying spells
• low energy or extreme fatigue
• thoughts of worry, guilt, or blame
• thoughts of death or suicidal ideations
• feelings of hopelessness
• weight loss or weight gain
• difficulty concentrating
• memory problems
• irrational fears

If you or a family member experience any of these symptoms, reach out to your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a mental health treatment center.

At Ohio Recovery Center, we place focus on evidence-based care, your well-being, and holistic ways to treat symptoms associated with mental illness.

Contact us today to learn more about our treatment options.