webadminAn estimated 46.6 million Americans, about one in every five adults, suffer from a diagnosable mental illness in any given year. People suffering from mental health disorders have long endured the stigma which has sadly been attached to it. However, attitudes are slowly changing thanks to the surge in social media campaigns and increased awareness about the same. News and information are at everyone’s fingertips, educating people and changing mentalities.
Treatment for mental health disorders has made great strides in recent years. One of the oldest forms of mental health treatment – psychotherapy or verbal therapy – is still commonly used but is not always the most effective form of treatment. Many successful types of behavioral therapies are now in use and are employed depending upon the patient’s symptoms. Medications can be prescribed to target specific symptoms while often allowing the patient to continue their daily life.
Residential treatment centers have eased long-term treatment
For those in need of long-term treatment, there are many residential treatment centers available. Patients live comfortably during their stay and in addition to therapy and/or medication, are able to engage in therapeutic activities such as equine therapy, art, music, yoga, meditation, exercise, and nutritional counseling. The patient’s family is included in the process and is involved in the continuing care of the patient.
The neglect of mental illness exacts a huge toll economically as well as on individuals. People with low incomes are especially in need. One in six adults living at or just above the poverty line or lower have severe mental health problems. Without access to affordable treatment, many face difficulties in holding down a job and do not qualify as formally disabled, locking them out of insurance coverage. A recent study in California found that only 32 percent of uninsured residents with mental illnesses received any treatment at all, and that less than 12 percent got adequate help.
Untreated mental illnesses extract huge economic toll
Untreated mental illness in the U.S. costs more than $100 billion a year in lost productivity according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Hospitals and clinics must cope with the associated chronic physical diseases and schools must open more special education classes. Courts and jails also deal with many individuals who suffer from untreated mental illnesses.
Mental health disorders can often lead to suicidal tendencies, especially with the lack of resources available to seek treatment. Suicide ranks among the top 10 most common causes of death in the U.S. (in the top two among young people), with 90 percent of the cases attributed to mental illness.
Seek recovery today
If you or someone you know is showing symptoms of an addiction to a drug, alcohol, or any other substance, it is advisable to seek help from professionals at Mind Health Network. A leading network with partners in the addiction industry, we can assist you with relevant information about addiction treatment programs. Call our 24/7 helpline (866) 548-0190 to find the best residential addiction facilities. You can also chat online with a representative for further assistance.
