In a world where physical health takes center stage, it is just as important to prioritize mental health. Just like any other health concern, mental health disorders deserve attention, care, and treatment. There are a variety of effective approaches available to help people manage these challenges.
Who treats mental health disorders?
Mental health disorders can be treated by a range of qualified professionals, each offering their own expertise. They include:1
- Psychiatrists – Medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. They can prescribe medicine.
- Psychologists – Professionals trained to identify and treat emotional issues and mental health disorders through therapy and counseling
- Psychiatric mental health nurses – Registered nurses (RNs) trained in mental health issues
- Therapists and counselors – Licensed professionals trained in offering talk therapy, counseling, and support
- Social workers – Professionals who may have special training in mental health. They can offer assessments, counseling, and connection with necessary resources.
Types of mental health treatment
There are various types of treatment available for people with mental health conditions. They include:2,3
- Therapy
- Prescription medicines
- Complementary and integrative therapies
- Lifestyle changes
- Emerging treatments
Therapy options
Therapy, often called psychotherapy or counseling, is a first-line treatment for mental health disorders. Talking to a therapist can help you learn coping skills, understand your feelings, and develop strategies to manage your symptoms.2
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common type of therapy. It helps people recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.2
Some other types of therapy include:2
- Family therapy
- Marriage counseling
- Group therapy
Your therapist will work with you to determine the best type of therapy for your needs.
Medicines
For some disorders, medicine can be helpful. Psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, or primary care doctors can prescribe drugs that can balance brain chemicals to reduce symptoms. Examples include:2
- Antidepressants
- Anti-anxiety drugs
- Antipsychotics
- Mood stabilizers
These drugs can help relieve symptoms and improve overall well-being. Often, a mental health treatment plan combines medicine with therapy, lifestyle changes, and other support. You will work closely with your doctor to find the right drug and dosage.2
Complementary and integrative therapies
Along with conventional medical treatments, some people find relief through complementary therapies. For example, mindfulness and meditation can help manage stress and promote relaxation. Yoga combines physical movement with mental focus, which promotes both physical and mental well-being.2
Other complementary therapy options include:2
- Acupuncture
- Art therapy
- Massage and bodywork
- Music therapy
Lifestyle changes
Taking care of your body can impact your mind, too. Habits that can improve your mental well-being include:3
- Getting regular exercise
- Eating a balanced diet
- Getting enough quality sleep
- Reducing stress
Avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs is also recommended. Using these substances can worsen mental health symptoms and interact with medicines you are taking.3
Emerging treatments
As experts’ knowledge of mental health disorders deepens, they create new treatments. Some examples of emerging treatments are:2,4
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) – TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It may be used for people with depression who have not responded well to other treatments.
- Ketamine therapy – Ketamine has been found to provide rapid relief from symptoms of depression and anxiety, often within hours or days, compared to traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks to become effective.
- Psychedelics – Researchers are exploring these substances as possible treatments for mental health disorders. Psychedelics include psilocybin (found in certain mushrooms) and MDMA.
Be sure to discuss emerging treatments with your doctor to find out whether they are safe and appropriate for you.2
The importance of early detection and treatment
Early detection and treatment of mental health disorders can make a big difference in a person’s recovery journey. Just as with physical illnesses, identifying mental health concerns early can prevent them from getting worse and becoming harder to manage.
Ignoring symptoms or hoping they will go away on their own can lead to unnecessary suffering. Seeking help when you need it is a sign of strength and self-care. With the many treatments available, you can find the support you need to manage and live well with a mental health disorder.
Before beginning treatment for a mental health disorder, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you take. This includes over-the-counter drugs.