At this time, most mental illnesses cannot be cured, but they can usually be treated effectively. Treatment helps minimize symptoms and allows people to function well at work, school, and social settings. To begin treatment, a person should consult a qualified mental health professional. Treatment can involve medications, therapy, or both, depending on the condition and its severity.
This guide outlines which mental health conditions can be treated and how to get effective treatment.
How Is Mental Illness Treated?
Treating mental illness usually involves a combination of methods.
Inpatient or outpatient rehab
Sometimes, a stay in an inpatient facility is needed, especially if someone is a danger to themselves or others. This provides a safe environment for intensive treatment.
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Outpatient programs, by contrast, offer structured treatment while allowing the person to live at home and continue their everyday lives.
Medications
Medications can help manage symptoms of mental illness. There are different types for various conditions. For example:
- Antidepressants: Help with depression and anxiety
- Antipsychotics: Treat conditions like schizophrenia
- Mood stabilizers: Used for bipolar disorder
- Anti-anxiety medications: Help reduce anxiety
A doctor will prescribe the right medication and dosage for you. Take medications exactly as directed.
Psychotherapy (talk therapy)
Talk therapy helps you understand your thoughts and feelings and learn new ways of coping. There are different kinds, such as:
- CBT: CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) focuses on changing negative thought patterns
- DBT: DBT (dialectical behavior therapy) helps manage emotions and improve relationships
- Exposure therapy: Helps people face and reduce their fears
- Family therapy: Involves family members in treatment to improve communication and support
Therapy usually involves regular sessions with a therapist – one-on-one, in a group, or with family members.
Alternative treatments
Holistic treatments like yoga, mindfulness, and meditation can help reduce stress and improve mood. These therapies are best combined with science-based options.
Lifestyle changes
Making sensible lifestyle changes can help improve the symptoms of mental illness.
- Healthy habits: Good nutrition, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep can improve mental health.
- Stress management: Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can help reduce stress.
- Routine: Keeping a daily routine can provide stability and improve mood.
- Support systems: A strong support network can provide emotional help and encouragement. Joining a support group to share experiences with others who understand can be very beneficial.
Mental Illnesses That Can Be Cured
While many mental illnesses can be managed effectively, some conditions can be cured or resolved completely with the right treatment.
Temporary stress-related disorders
- Examples: ASD (acute stress disorder).
- Treatment: Therapy and stress management techniques can help resolve symptoms completely.
Certain anxiety disorders
- Examples: Specific phobias.
- Treatment: Exposure therapy and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) can eliminate the fear response over time.
Mild depression
- Examples: Situational depression caused by a specific event.
- Treatment: Therapy, lifestyle changes, and sometimes short-term use of medications can lead to a full recovery.
Adjustment disorders
- Examples: Stress reactions to major life changes like moving or losing a job.
- Treatment: Counseling and support can help people adjust and recover fully.
Mental Illnesses That Can Be Managed with Treatment
Many mental illnesses can be managed with the right treatment.
Depression
- Symptoms: Feeling very sad, losing interest in activities, changes in appetite and sleep.
- Treatment: Medications like antidepressants and therapy such as CBT can help manage symptoms.
Anxiety disorders
- Symptoms: Excessive worry, restlessness, trouble sleeping, and physical symptoms like a fast heartbeat.
- Treatment: Anti-anxiety medications and therapies like CBT are effective in reducing anxiety.
Bipolar disorder
- Symptoms: Extreme mood swings with periods of mania (high energy) and depression.
- Treatment: Mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, and therapy can help maintain mood balance.
Schizophrenia
- Symptoms: Hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.
- Treatment: Antipsychotic medications and therapy can manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)
- Symptoms: Flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about a traumatic event.
- Treatment: Therapy, especially trauma-focused therapies like EMDR, and medications can help manage PTSD symptoms.
OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder)
- Symptoms: Repeated, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions) that the person feels driven to perform.
- Treatment: Medications like SSRIs and therapies like ERP (exposure and response prevention) can reduce symptoms.
ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder)
- Symptoms: Difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness.
- Treatment: Stimulant medications and behavioral therapies can help manage ADHD symptoms.
Eating disorders
- Symptoms: Unhealthy eating habits, obsession with weight and body image.
- Treatment: Therapy, nutritional counseling, and sometimes medications can help people recover from eating disorders.
BPD (borderline personality disorder)
- Symptoms: Intense mood swings, fear of abandonment, and unstable relationships.
- Treatment: DBT (dialectical behavior therapy) and medications can help manage symptoms.
With proper treatment, people with these mental illnesses can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.
Does Insurance Cover Mental Illness Treatment?
Most health insurance plans cover mental health treatment. This includes inpatient and outpatient care, counseling, and treatment for substance use disorders. Coverage details can vary depending on your insurance plan and where you live. Review your policy, contact your insurer, and ask about specific benefits, network restrictions, and any necessary pre-authorizations.
Call our friendly team 24/7 for a free insurance coverage check for inpatient mental health treatment at 844-759-0999.
Can Mental Illness Be Cured? | FAQs
How effective is treatment for mental illness?
Treatment for mental illness can be very effective. Many people experience significant improvements in their symptoms and quality of life with proper treatment.
Is it possible to live a normal life with mental illness?
Yes, it is possible to live a normal life with mental illness. With the right treatment and support, many people manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.
How important is early intervention for mental illness treatment?
Early intervention is important for mental illness treatment. The sooner someone gets help, the better their chances are for managing symptoms and improving their quality of life.
What role does ongoing support play in managing a mental illness?
Ongoing support is essential for managing a mental illness. Support from friends, family, therapists, and support groups helps people stay on track with their treatment and provides encouragement and understanding.
Get Insurance-Covered Mental Health Treatment at Connections
Do you need help dealing with mental health issues? If so, we offer many treatment programs at Connections Mental Health in Southern California.
If you are nervous about getting treatment, group sizes at Connections are small, with only six people. This lets you get personal attention, reduces overwhelm, and offers support from peers tackling similar issues. The immersive nature of inpatient care means you can focus on healing without distractions.
All mental health conditions are unique, so all treatment programs at Connections offer tailored therapies that include medications, counseling, talk therapy, and family therapy, as well as various holistic options.
For effective and compassionate mental health treatment, call Connections today at 844-759-0999.
