Mental Disorder Treatment

Treatment for mental disorders can vary depending on the type of disorder and the severity of symptoms. Typically, the first step in intervention is assessment by an outpatient provider. However, during times of crisis, more intensive treatment may be necessary to keep a person safe.

Psychotherapy

• Establishing rapport and trust in a relationship with a therapist can facilitate the healing process. Learning coping skills in addition to new ways of thinking and behaving in reaction to feelings are typically the focus of therapy for mental disorders.

Medication

• Seeking medical attention from a physician can be a step towards symptom resolution for mental disorders. Depending on the diagnosis, a primary care physician or psychiatrist can prescribe medications for symptom relief.

Intensive Outpaient Treatment

• Enrolling in an intensive outpatient treatment program (IOP) may help individuals who are not completely incapacitated by the mental disorder but functioning is significantly affected. IOP typically lasts two to three weeks and is at the intensive level of three to four days a week. Individual, group and family therapy is provided.

Inpatient Treatment

• Suffering from a mental disorder may require acute hospitalization in order for safety to be ensured. At times, people suffering from mental disorders may experience symptoms that place the person at risk, including bizarre behavior, suicide or other types of violent thoughts.

Other Factors

• Taking responsibility for optimal mental health includes eating healthy, regular exercise, consistent sleep patterns and following prescribed treatment protocol.