Different Types of Psychiatric Treatment

People diagnosed with mental illnesses are recommended to undergo mental health treatment. In order to have an effective recovery process, some treatment options are mixed with others. Here are some forms of psychiatric treatment to improve one’s mental health.

1.Psychotherapy or Counseling

Also known as talk therapy, it is the most common type of treatment where patients talk about their mental health issues to a psychological expert. People going through grief, divorce, PTSD, addiction, and problems related to family and work can also undergo counseling.

 Therapists help individuals learn about their conditions and gain insights into their thoughts, emotions, and behavior. Talk therapy allows them to better comprehend and deal with their problems.

 One-on-one is the most common form of counseling, but it can also be done in a group or family setting. The duration of this treatment also varies; it can be done weekly for a few months or longer, depending on the patient’s needs. Psychotherapy is also combined with other mental health treatments like prescribed medication, support groups, and brain stimulation therapy.

 2.Psychiatric Medicine

Researchers believe that the brain’s chemical imbalance causes the symptoms of mental illnesses. Though prescription drugs can improve the symptoms, they are not a cure for mental illnesses. Taking medication has its risks and side effects. The most common kinds of psychiatric medications include:

 3,Antidepressants

These are mainly prescribed to individuals with depression and anxiety. Antidepressants reduce sadness, hopelessness, and suicidal thoughts. People with eating disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorders can also be prescribed with these. The possible side effects include insomnia, weight gain, and constipation.

 4.Antipsychotics

Medicine in this category helps calm people with psychosis, schizophrenia, and some cases of severe anxiety. The drug aids in thinking clearly, focusing on reality, removing unwelcomed voices, and eliminating horrible thoughts. Side effects may include drowsiness, low blood pressure, constipation, twitches, and dizziness.

 5.Mood Stabilizers

Patients with bipolar disorder take mood stabilizers to reduce the effects of extreme mood swings. Doctors also recommend this drug to people with severe depression and schizoaffective disorder. Lack of body coordination, weight gain, dizziness, and drowsiness are some possible side effects of this medication.

 6.Sleeping Pills and Tranquilizers

People with insomnia and anxiety can feel relaxed when taking sleeping pills. Side effects may include dizziness, insomnia, headaches, slurred speech, and increased excitability.

 7.Support Groups

Patients with mental health conditions can receive support and friendship if they’re part of a support group. It addresses the disconnection and loneliness individuals often feel along with their mental illness. Knowing that others have the shared experience of grappling with their mental health issues can help diminish the sense of isolation.

 This psychiatric treatment can also help those struggling to recover from substance abuse problems and addictions. There are support systems for people with:

• Alcohol Abuse

• Drug Abuse

• Eating Disorders

• Sex Addiction

• Shopping Addiction

• Smoking Problems

• Gambling Problems

• Anxiety and Depression

 8.Art Therapy

Many doctors recommend art therapy for children, the elderly, war veterans, prisoners, and people diagnosed with mental illnesses. This treatment is a form of healing for patients by conveying their thoughts and emotions through free forms of artistic expression. Some forms of art therapy include drawing, collage, doodling, painting, photography, finger painting, and sculpting.

 Researchers found that art therapy reduces stress and anxiety, increases self-esteem, helps understand complex emotions, and stimulates mental function. Paired with talk therapy, therapists assess the patients’ artworks and give them insights on how to deal with their feelings. Art therapy helps patients interpret the meaning behind the images, helping them understand themselves better.

 9.Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

This procedure is commonly used to treat severe cases of major depression or bipolar disorder. Patients who have an adverse reaction to medication or unsuccessful results from other forms of therapy may opt for this treatment.

 ECT applies electric currents to the brain of an anesthetized patient. The electrical activity alters the brain chemistry that leads to changes in mood and behavior. The treatment may help reduce symptoms of depression by stimulating the flow of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that affect positive moods and emotions. 

Mental health is a crucial aspect of one’s overall well-being that needs to be taken care of. Though being diagnosed with mental health issues can make anyone feel dejected, there is no shame to it. Seek professional help to recover from the symptoms of mental health problems effectively.