Mental Disorders – Knowing Where to Get Help
If you have a loved one who is suffering from a mental disorder, it’s important to know where to get help and what kinds of treatment options are available. There are many treatment options for different types of disorders, and there are a wide range of treatment options for comorbid conditions like alcohol or drug abuse.
Anxiety and depressive disorders
Anxiety and depressive disorders are common mental disorders that can affect almost everyone at some point in their lives. Symptoms may include restlessness, agitation, fatigue, excessive worrying and panic attacks. However, if anxiety is persistent, it can interfere with your ability to perform daily activities and even lead to physical problems.
There are many forms of anxiety and depressive disorders, such as social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Each of these disorders is treatable.
Generally, the diagnosis of anxiety and depressive disorders is made by a physician. Studies have shown that the presence of significant anxiety symptoms predicts a poorer outcome for depression. This means that people with anxiety disorders are more likely to develop major depressive disorder, suicide and substance abuse.
In 2017, 284 million people were diagnosed with an anxiety or depressive disorder. Although anxiety and depressive disorders are relatively common, the rates vary widely across countries. Some estimates suggest that as much as half of adults with anxiety also have depression.
Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder, once known as manic depression, is a mental illness that causes dramatic mood swings. These mood swings affect your energy level and ability to function. They can also cause you to have psychotic symptoms, such as seeing things that don’t exist.
Although there is no cure for bipolar disorder, there are many different treatments. Some of these are medications and talking therapies. Other approaches include self-compassion and developing a coping strategy.
The most effective treatment for bipolar disorder involves a combination of both medications and therapy. Your health provider will recommend a treatment plan based on your symptoms.
Your doctor will first take a history of your symptoms and any previous medical conditions you may have had. He or she will then do a physical examination. You may be asked to undergo blood tests and brain scans.
If your condition is severe, you might be referred to a psychiatrist. Psychiatrists are trained in mental health and are familiar with the latest medications and treatment options.
Comorbidity with alcohol
Comorbidity between alcohol use disorder and mental disorders is a subject of ongoing research. Various studies have reported high rates of comorbidity. However, few authors have been skeptical of these findings. This review explores the current evidence and offers future directions in treatment research.
Comorbidity is generally defined as a condition wherein an individual has two or more psychiatric illnesses, or has had a psychiatric illness during their lifetime. Psychiatric comorbidity increases a person’s risk of medical conditions. Additionally, people with comorbid disorders are more likely to seek out specialized mental health services.
One study found that nearly one-third of respondents with alcohol use disorder had a comorbid disorder. These included psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety.
Another study examined comorbidity among women who abused alcohol. Alcoholism was associated with a moderate increase in major depressive disorder. However, this relationship did not show an increased risk for other psychiatric disorders.
Researchers conducted a survey of over 20,000 individuals in an Epidemiological Catchment Area (ECA). They found a high rate of comorbidity, with a range of comorbid disorders. Some of these included anxiety disorders, panic disorder, and social phobia.
Treatment options
Mental disorders affect the way people think and behave. They can be treated as effectively as physical diseases. Treatment options range from medication to psychosocial interventions, including behavioural therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy.
The severity of the disorder determines the most effective treatment. Some disorders require long-term treatment. For example, bipolar disorders are characterized by episodes of mania and depression. If the symptoms are not well controlled, the patient may require hospitalization.
Antipsychotic drugs may help treat mental disorders. Newer drugs include aripiprazole, olanzapine, lumateperone and cariprazine. These drugs may also be used to treat depression.
Drugs are generally well tolerated but can have adverse effects. In addition, there are some conditions where medication may be the most effective.
Often, psychotherapy and medications are used in combination. Studies suggest that this approach is the most effective. Psychotherapy is a type of talk therapy that aims to improve your well-being. It is conducted by a trained professional.
