Treatment FAQ

if you think you have a psychological problem and need treatment, what should you do first?

by Dasia Gerlach Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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The first step in the treatment of psychological disorders is recognizing that a problem exists. Often, people who have psychological disorders deny their problem and do not seek medical care for their symptoms. Regular medical care can be helpful because it allows a health care professional to provide early screening tests.

If it's not an emergency, start with your regular doctor. They will check to make sure that medication or another illness is not the cause of your symptoms. If you are physically fine, they will likely refer you to a mental health care professional -- someone trained in treating mental health.Apr 1, 2022

Full Answer

What is the first step in the treatment of psychological disorders?

A) Go online to learn more about the symptoms you're experiencing. B) Schedule a complete exam and evaluation by a physician. C) Interview three different mental health professionals. D) Tough it out and keep telling yourself that you can get over it.

What is psychological treatment?

For instance, someone might seem depressed, anxious, see or hear things that aren’t there, abuse drugs, or have other problems with thinking. The second step is to get help from a …

What is the best way to treat mental illness?

Dec 06, 2014 · Probably the most difficult step in treatment is acknowledging that you have a problem and taking the first step to seek help. However, with this humility and courage, people can experience relief ...

When do you need a psychological evaluation?

Feb 17, 2022 · One type of therapy that is often effective is known as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which involves identifying and changing the negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to psychological problems. Medications . Antidepressants, anxiolytics, antipsychotics, and other medications can also be helpful for treating mental disorders. While these …

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Which is the first step to getting help for a mental health problem?

Here is a review of the steps:Step 1: Recognize You Are Powerless to Overcome Mental Illness and/or Addiction on Your own.Step 2: Reach Out for help.Step 3: Find The Help That You Need by Getting a Proper Diagnosis.Step 4: Get a Treatment Plan Specifically Tailored to You.

What to do if you think you have a mental illness?

Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Call your mental health specialist. Call a suicide hotline number. In the U.S., call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or use its webchat on suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat.Jun 8, 2019

What would you do to help someone who is suffering with a psychological disease?

There are some general strategies that you can use to help:Listen without making judgements and concentrate on their needs in that moment.Ask them what would help them.Reassure and signpost to practical information or resources.Avoid confrontation.Ask if there is someone they would like you to contact.More items...

How do I start getting psychological help?

Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to reach a 24-hour crisis center, text MHA to 741741, call 911, or go to the nearest emergency room. Find a local MHA affiliate who can provide services. Find a therapist.

How do you treat mental illness without medication?

Simple daily practices such as meditation or adding to a list of things you're grateful can help boost mood and overall well-being. Meditation can have a range of beneficial effects such as lowering stress levels and helping people to become more aware of their thoughts and reactions.Oct 27, 2021

When should you seek mental health treatment?

When is an evaluation or treatment needed?Marked changes in personality, eating or sleeping patterns.An inability to cope with problems or daily activities.Feeling of disconnection or withdrawal from normal activities.Unusual or "magical" thinking.Excessive anxiety.Prolonged sadness, depression or apathy.More items...

How do you help a mentally ill person who doesn't want help?

Here are a few things to consider when working with your loved one who doesn't want help:Listen and validate. If your relationship is iffy, it doesn't hurt to just listen. ... Ask questions. ... Resist the urge to fix or give advice. ... Explore options together. ... Take care of yourself and find your own support.

What to say to someone who is struggling mentally?

What to say to someone with a mental illness"Do you want to talk about it? I'm always here for you." ... "What can I do to help?" ... "That sounds really difficult. ... 4. " ... "I'm really sorry you're going through this. ... "Are you looking for my perspective or would you rather I listen?"Nov 14, 2019

How do you deal with a mentally challenged person?

SPEAK DIRECTLY. Use clear simple communications. ... OFFER TO SHAKE HANDS WHEN INTRODUCED. ... MAKE EYE CONTACT AND BE AWARE OF BODY LANGUAGE. ... LISTEN ATTENTIVELY. ... TREAT ADULTS AS ADULTS. ... DO NOT GIVE UNSOLICITED ADVICE OR ASSISTANCE. ... DO NOT BLAME THE PERSON. ... QUESTIONS THE ACCURACY OF THE MEDIA STEREOTYPES OF MENTAL ILLNESS.More items...

What type of treatment or support is typically provided to the patient to help resolve the medical or mental health issue?

Psychotherapy or counseling. This also is called talk therapy. It is one of the most common treatments for mental health disorders. It involves talking about your problems with a mental health professional.Feb 7, 2018

What are the 5 signs of mental illness?

The five main warning signs of mental illness are as follows:Excessive paranoia, worry, or anxiety.Long-lasting sadness or irritability.Extreme changes in moods.Social withdrawal.Dramatic changes in eating or sleeping pattern.Oct 14, 2020

What does a psychologist do?

Psychologists study cognitive, emotional, and social processes and behavior by observing, interpreting, and recording how people relate to one another and to their environments. They use their findings to help improve processes and behaviors.Oct 20, 2021

When to go to a psychiatric hospital?

This is generally recommended when you can't care for yourself properly or when you're in immediate danger of harming yourself or someone else.

How to improve mental health?

Even light physical activity can make a difference. Make healthy choices. Maintaining a regular schedule that includes sufficient sleep, healthy eating and regular physical activity are important to your mental health.

What is a lab test?

Lab tests. These may include, for example, a check of your thyroid function or a screening for alcohol and drugs. A psychological evaluation. A doctor or mental health professional talks to you about your symptoms, thoughts, feelings and behavior patterns.

What is the DSM-5?

The defining symptoms for each mental illness are detailed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association. This manual is used by mental health professionals to diagnose mental conditions and by insurance companies to reimburse for treatment.

Can mental illness get better?

In most cases, a mental illness won't get better if you try to treat it on your own without professional care. But you can do some things for yourself that will build on your treatment plan: Stick to your treatment plan. Don't skip therapy sessions. Even if you're feeling better, don't skip your medications.

What is the difference between psychotherapy and talk therapy?

Psychotherapy, also called talk therapy, involves talking about your condition and related issues with a mental health professional. During psychotherapy, you learn about your condition and your moods, feelings, thoughts and behavior. With the insights and knowledge you gain, you can learn coping and stress management skills.

What is brain stimulation?

Brain-stimulation treatments are sometimes used for depression and other mental health disorders. They're generally reserved for situations in which medications and psychotherapy haven't worked. They include electroconvulsive therapy, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, deep brain stimulation and vagus nerve stimulation.

What is the second step in mental health?

The second step is to get help from a psychiatrist or another mental health expert (such as a psychologist or a clinical social worker). Doing these two things can be tough. But once you do, you can find out what’s going on and start to get better. The sooner you do it, the better.

What is a psychiatrist?

Psychiatrist: These are medical doctors ( MDs) who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses. Psychiatrists can prescribe drugs as part of their treatment plan. They are also trained in psychotherapy, a form of counseling or “talk therapy.”.

What to do if you are not an emergency?

If it’s not an emergency, start with your regular doctor. They will check to make sure that medication or another illness is not the cause of your symptoms. If you are physically fine, they will likely refer you to a mental health care professional -- someone trained in treating mental health.

What is a PA caregiver?

They are sometimes called general practionioners. Physician assistant (PA): These caregivers are not doctors, but they are trained to identify symptoms of mental illness and to treat mental disorders under a doctor’s supervision.

What is a psychiatric nurse specialist?

Psychiatric nurse specialist: These are registered nurses (RNs) who specialize in treating mental or psychiatric illnesses. You will want to work with someone you feel comfortable talking with.

What is a social worker?

Social worker: These specialists can provide counseling services and social service needs. They are trained to recognize mental illness and can do psychotherapy.

What is psychological treatment?

What's psychological treatment? Psychological treatment is sometimes called ‘psychotherapy’ or ‘talking therapy’. It involves talking about your thoughts with a professional to: better understand your own thinking and behaviour. understand and resolve your problems. recognise symptoms of mental illness in yourself.

What are the different types of psychological treatment?

Some of the most common treatments are listed below (in alphabetical order): Acceptance and commitment therapy. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is based on mindfulness (being aware of the present moment).

How to treat mental illness?

reduce your symptoms. change your behaviour. improve your quality of life. Evidence shows that psychological treatments work well for emotional, mental and behavioural issues. Psychological treatments are useful for people of all ages, including children.

What kind of doctor can help with mental health?

Psychiatrists can provide psychological treatments to people with mental illness. Find a psychiatrist near you who can provide psychological treatments. Psychologists, some GPs, social workers, mental health nurses, counsellors and other therapists also offer psychological treatments. First steps to get help.

How does psychodynamic therapy help?

Psychodynamic psychotherapy can help you to see your behaviour patterns, defences, and inner struggles. The idea is that once your inner struggles are brought to light, your behaviour and feelings will improve. Any issues that arise in treatment with your therapist may reflect some of the issues in your life.

What is CAT therapy?

Cognitive analytic therapy. Cognitive analytic therapy (CAT) is where you are asked to review your childhood and look at how you have learnt to cope with different situations. With your therapist, you work towards changing the way you view situations and how you respond to them. Cognitive behaviour therapy.

What is the difference between CBT and DBT?

You are then asked to suggest a more balanced view of the situation by seeing both sides. CBT is often used to treat depression and anxiety. Dialectical behaviour therapy. Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) focuses on controlling problem emotions (especially anger) and behaviours (such as cutting).

What are some examples of mental disorders?

Common examples include bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Other “disorders” impair functioning but are determined by a more diverse array of causes, some of which are psychological and social/cultural in nature. In this sense, these conditions are not true “diseases.”. Examples include anxiety disorders, depression, addictive disorders, ...

How many mental disorders are there?

According to the most recent Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM 5), there are nearly 400 different psychological disorders. Some of these disorders fit the definition of “disease,” a problem that impairs functioning and that mostly stems from biological causes. Common examples include bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Can mental illness be overcome?

Almost all conditions can be managed effectively through the right combination of treatment options. Many disorders can be overcome long-term without the use of medicine.

What is psychological disorder?

What Is a Psychological Disorder? A psychological disorder is a designation often used interchangeably with the terms mental disorder, psychiatric disorder, or mental illness. The “official” term is mental disorder, defined in the latest edition of the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic manual, the DSM-5.

Why do people avoid diagnosis?

While some people may avoid seeking a diagnosis out of fear of social stigma, getting a diagnosis is an essential part of finding an effective treatment plan. A diagnosis is not about applying a label to a problem; it is about discovering solutions, treatments, and information related to the problem.

What is the purpose of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders?

Clinicians utilize the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Association, to determine whether a set of symptoms or behaviors meets the criteria for diagnosis as a mental disorder.

What is serious mental illness?

NIMH defines serious mental illness as a mental, behavioral or emotional disorder diagnosable within the past year that meets diagnostic criteria specified by the DSM-IV. These disorders must also lead to serious impairment in functioning that limits or interferes with one or more major life activities.

What is maladaptive behavior?

Behaviors that are considered maladaptive and cause significant personal distress and interrupt daily functioning are more likely to be labeled as disorders.

What is the DSM-5?

The DSM-5 describes numerous psychological disorders, as well as disorders that fall under a category of similar or related disorder subtypes. Some of the prominent diagnostic categories include feeding and eating disorders, mood disorders, somatic symptom, and related disorders, sleep-wake disorders, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders .

Who is Kendra Cherry?

Kendra Cherry, MS, is an author, educational consultant, and speaker focused on helping students learn about psychology. Learn about our editorial process. Kendra Cherry. Medically reviewed by. Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on April 19, 2019.

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Diagnosis

  • To determine a diagnosis and check for related complications, you may have: 1. A physical exam.Your doctor will try to rule out physical problems that could cause your symptoms. 2. Lab tests.These may include, for example, a check of your thyroid function or a screening for alcohol and drugs. 3. A psychological evaluation.A doctor or mental health professional talks to you abo…
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Treatment

  • Your treatment depends on the type of mental illness you have, its severity and what works best for you. In many cases, a combination of treatments works best. If you have a mild mental illness with well-controlled symptoms, treatment from your primary care provider may be sufficient. However, often a team approach is appropriate to make sure all your psychiatric, medical and so…
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Lifestyle and Home Remedies

  • In most cases, a mental illness won't get better if you try to treat it on your own without professional care. But you can do some things for yourself that will build on your treatment plan: 1. Stick to your treatment plan.Don't skip therapy sessions. Even if you're feeling better, don't skip your medications. If you stop, symptoms may come back. A...
See more on mayoclinic.org

Coping and Support

  • Coping with a mental illness is challenging. Talk to your doctor or therapist about improving your coping skills, and consider these tips: 1. Learn about your mental illness.Your doctor or therapist can provide you with information or may recommend classes, books or websites. Include your family, too — this can help the people who care about you understand what you're going through …
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Preparing For Your Appointment

  • Whether you schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to talk about mental health concerns or you're referred to a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, take steps to prepare for your appointment. If possible, take a family member or friend along. Someone who has known you for a long time may be able to share important information, with y…
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What's Psychological Treatment?

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Psychological treatment is sometimes called ‘psychotherapy’ or ‘talking therapy’. It involves talking about your thoughts with a professional to: 1. better understand your own thinking and behaviour 2. understand and resolve your problems 3. recognise symptoms of mental illness in yourself 4. reduce your symptoms 5. ch
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Why Get Psychological Treatment?

  • Psychological treatments are proven to help with mental illnesses such as: 1. depression 2. anxiety 3. addiction 4. eating disorders 5. post-traumatic stress disorder 6. obsessive-compulsive disorder 7. personality disorders. They are also used successfully to help people deal with: 1. stress 2. emotional problems 3. grief and trauma 4. relationship problems. It may take a numbe…
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Who Can Provide Psychological Treatments?

  • Psychiatrists can provide psychological treatments to people with mental illness. Find a psychiatrist near you who can provide psychological treatments Psychologists, some GPs, social workers, mental health nurses, counsellors and other therapists also offer psychological treatments. First steps to get help Not all people who offer psychological treatments have profe…
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Types of Psychological Treatment

  • There are different types of psychological treatments designed to help with different issues. Some of the most common treatments are listed below (in alphabetical order):
See more on yourhealthinmind.org

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