Understanding Mental Illness (Leslie Gibbon)

Mental illness is an increasing problem in the United States as well as around the world. There are many different types of mental illnesses that are experienced, from depression to OCD to schizophrenia. Each of these types of mental conditions is going to require some very specific treatments in order to help control the problem. What are some of those treatments that may be available and what can you do if you or a loved one is suffering from mental illness and need some assistance?

The first thing for you to understand is the fact that mental illness is a clinical problem. If you are depressed or if you suffer from OCD, it is not a sign of weakness or something that needs to be swept under the carpet. Just as you would see a physician in order to get assistance if you have diabetes or high blood pressure, you should also seek medical assistance if you have a mental issue. They will help you to see the various options that may be available, which could include taking medication or perhaps giving you the help needed to find a therapist that can assist with your condition.

In many cases of mental illness, you're going to be provided with medication which may be able to help. Most of those medications are going to alter your brain chemicals, perhaps by making some of those chemicals more active in the brain. Those chemicals include serotonin and dopamine, which are neurotransmitters that may be directly related to your issue. You must understand the way that these medications work and their potential side effects before you begin taking them. Being informed about the medication that you are taking will help you to make wise decisions and to report any problems that may exist to your physician. After all, many drugs that are taken for depression and anxiety may cause additional depression and the potential for suicidal thoughts. Make sure that you are aware of this in advance.

You should also be aware of the fact that there is not always going to be an effective medication for your condition. Although there are some drugs that are available as an OCD treatment, they are largely ineffective. Even if you do find a medication that helps you with OCD or any other mental condition, it is only a matter of treating the symptoms and is not actually treating the underlying condition. That is why a therapist is often recommended to help you to root out the problem that may be leading to your mental condition.

Mental issues can be caused by many different underlying conditions, including a change in your lifestyle or even an illness. When you have a problem with depression, OCD or any other mental issue, it's important for you to get prompt medical attention so that you are able to get to the root of the problem as quickly as possible. Although it is going to take some time for the issues to be resolved, it will be well worth the effort once you are able to overcome the mental issue and begin living your life again.

Leslie Gibons is the author of this article about better understanding mental illness. Leslie, a San Francisco therapist, has worked in this industry for some time and understands that not everyone fully recognizes mental illness as it should be.