First of all, it’s important for people to understand what mental health is. It refers to mental and emotional well-being. In general, people are healthy and happy when they maintain good mental health. Individuals are able to demonstrate resiliency and manage stress, trauma, and other hardships without breaking down.
Several factors can affect people’s mental health, including genetics, biology, daily habits, environment, and life-changing events. Those who have a healthy mental state can stay positive and help others. They also enjoy time with loved ones and ask for help when they need it.
When people have a mental illness, they are unable to cope during troubling times. While some can’t control their emotions, others can’t control their behavior. And some people will misuse substances to alleviate their symptoms and dis-regulation, which can have adverse consequences. This is why people with mental health issues need to consult with experts in the field. Individual clinicians or programs like Gateway Foundation can assess and make proper clinical recommendations based on each individual’s situation.
Medication-Assisted Treatment isn’t necessary for everyone, but some people need it to manage their mental health condition. Antidepressants, for example, improve symptoms such as poor concentration, sadness, lack of interest, and lack of energy. Many people in treatment only need antidepressants while they address the cause of their depression.
Also, programs may suggest anti-anxiety, mood-stabilizing, and antipsychotic medications during treatment. Other medications might be necessary in cases of a substance use disorder, which is also classified as a mental health disorder.
Treatment centers providing services for those with mental health issues should offer several types of talk therapy, known as psychotherapy.
During psychotherapy, people discuss their conditions and related problems with counselors. Therapists teach them about their illnesses and how it affects their behavior, moods, thoughts, and emotions. People can learn stress-management and coping skills to manage these elements. This therapy is either done on an individual or group basis.
Each type of talk therapy takes a slightly different approach to improving mental and emotional well-being. Counselors can assess each person’s situation and select the best therapies to help them. During the treatment process, the clinical plan evolves based on how one is progressing.
Ongoing treatment is a necessity. Going to an inpatient mental health/substance use disorder facility can provide a safe environment to enable individuals to focus on getting better, without distractions. Upon leaving an inpatient program, there is a chance that reintegration into daily life will creating a lot of stress that could lead to adopting old, bad habits and lead to relapse. This is why it is often recommended that an aftercare plan be put inplace before residential discharge, that includes structured programming. This may include intensive outpatient or outpatient services and potentially a supportive living environment. Gateway centers provide all of the above services necessary for comprehensive mental health care in conjunction with substance use disorder services. Some of the clinical and medical methods that we use include:
