Information from studies done by the National Institute of Mental Health tells us that nearly 1 in 5 American adults live with a mental illness. Additionally, researchers found that among the adolescents they interviewed, almost half had a mental health disorder, and over 20% reported serious, debilitating symptoms. Mental health is a serious consideration across the country. Finding the best psychiatrists and mental health treatment can alleviate these severe symptoms, so each individual can focus on long-term skills to stay healthy. Mental health clinics can help provide you with the support and treatment you need to learn how to properly manage your mental health symptoms.
As stated above, symptoms of mental health disorders oftentimes occur prior to adulthood. Therefore, it is important for parents to identify symptoms and ensure their children receive treatment. Learning how to cope with symptoms early on can help prevent you from experiencing problems later in life.
What Are Mental Health Disorders?
Mental health disorders can drastically reduce your quality of life. Unfortunately, mental health disorders are chronic and incurable, meaning that you must manage symptoms throughout your life. Mental health disorders can impact how your brain releases neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. Too little serotonin can make you feel depressed, while too much can result in mania.
Also, most mental disorders have no known cause, making them difficult to prevent and identify. Mental health disorders are diagnosed by a psychiatrist, who base their diagnosis on your symptoms. No lab test can definitely diagnose conditions like depression or PTSD.
Since a diagnosis centers on your symptoms, it is important to look for mental health treatment programs where you feel comfortable honestly sharing your thoughts, feelings, and symptoms. Documenting your symptoms can be especially helpful.
For example, some of the most common symptoms of mental health disorders include:
- Inability to control or regulate your emotions
- Obsessing over tangible or intangible things
- Experiencing panic or anxiety attacks
- Difficulty sleeping or persistent nightmares
- Having anger management issues
- Experiencing prolonged periods of intense sadness and engaging in risky behavior
Mental Health Clinics
Mental health clinics provide you with access to treatment which can help you manage your mental health symptoms. Working with a mental health clinic provides you with the ability to receive a proper diagnosis, an individualized treatment plan, and therapy.
Additionally, mental health clinics can provide a broad range of services, including:
- Individual counseling
- Group therapy
- Support groups
- Family and marital counseling
- Anger management
- Medication management
Washington, D.C., mental health clinic services may also include access to a staff psychiatrist, which is an important way to coordinate your care. Group and individual therapy can help you identify bad thinking patterns and learn about healthy ways to cope with symptoms and stressors.
Finding Washington, D.C. Mental Health Clinics
In summary, when you or a loved one is struggling with frustrating or overwhelming mental health symptoms, finding the best mental health clinics can be the lifeline you need to find recovery and stability. Evidence-based treatments and holistic techniques can help provide you with the tools you or a loved one needs to successfully manage your mental health disorder.