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Strategies For Getting Someone Mental Help When They Refuse

July 11, 2023/in Mental Illness/by Alter Behavioral Health

Alter Behavioral Health Can Help in California

Not everyone visits a healthcare provider when they have a problem. That’s especially true when people face mental health symptoms. Many people still associate mental health conditions with stigma. That’s unfortunate because many mental health disorders are treatable — quite treatable, and getting someone mental help and treatment can improve their life substantially. People can get support to effectively manage their condition and achieve improved symptom relief and well-being.

Alter Behavioral Health treats various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and more. If you are living with a mental health disorder, it’s important to seek treatment to prevent the condition from worsening and to stop symptoms from growing in severity. Our clinicians individualize treatment to ensure that each person gets the support they need.

Understanding the Reasons for Refusal

However, we can’t help someone unless they visit us. It can be extremely frustrating if you know someone who refuses to get mental health help. The challenge of convincing someone to seek mental health treatment is difficult when individuals don’t recognize that they have a problem or if they believe mental illness is something to hide. Stigma frequently plays a role in a person’s refusal to seek treatment for their condition.

Here, we’ll outline strategies for convincing people to seek professional psychiatric treatment when they need help. When someone refuses to get help, there are methods you can employ to try to convince them to give mental health treatment a try. We’ll explore here.

Recognizing Mental Illness

It’s not always easy to recognize the symptoms of mental illness and get someone mental health treatment. Of course, signs and symptoms vary depending on the condition in question. Mental health disorders tend to be highly complex conditions with subtle signs that may be difficult for anyone but a mental health provider to note. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of mental health disorders include:

Excessive or persistent worries and fears.
Feeling sad or depressed.
Confusion or inability to concentrate.
Extreme mood fluctuations with highs and lows.
Withdrawing from family and friends.
Low energy and insomnia.
Difficulty focusing on daily problems.
Problems with drugs and alcohol.
Changes in eating habits.
Suicidal thoughts.
Feeling excessively angry or hostile.
Detached from reality — experiencing delusions or hallucinations.

The Role of Stigma in Refusing Mental Help

When they notice signs of mental illness, the best thing to do is visit their doctor or mental healthcare provider. One of the reasons that patients do not seek mental healthcare is because of the stigma associated with mental health disorders. There is a societal stigma that persists in some places. People worry about being increasingly scrutinized at work if their illness becomes known. They may worry about losing their job or being passed over for promotion.

There are other societal concerns too. Some people may worry that their illness could prevent them from caring for children or other family members. Instead of getting help, they may tend to hide the condition more strenuously. People may also worry that once they’re labeled as mentally ill, they’ll never outgrow that label — or the stigma.

On the other hand, it’s important to combat the stubborn stigma associated with mental health. Why? Because, at some point, 1 in 5 people will suffer from a clinical bout of mental illness, whether depression, anxiety, or something else. Mental illness, like physical illness, is part of the human condition. The stigma only contributes to poor mental health; getting treatment improves mental health just like when a person visits the doctor for help dealing with a physical problem. Each person needs to banish the idea of ‘stigma’ as they maintain or get help improving their mental health. The stigma only perpetuates unnecessary suffering.

Strategies for Overcoming Resistance to Mental Health Treatment

To help a friend or loved one get the professional help they need, it’s important to do your research first and plan ahead. Rather than react emotionally to the issue, be prepared to calmly discuss their reasons for getting help and help them see a better future ahead.

Still, every person is different, including their past histories, current issues, and future goals, and it’s crucial to factor in those individual traits and feelings when coming up with a plan. Here are some strategies that can help.

Tips for Approaching Mental Health Conversations

If you have a family member or friend who is resistant to the idea of seeking mental health, you may wish to start a conversation about why talking about it could help. You can encourage mental health awareness simply by having a conversation about it. Let your loved one know that they can confide in you; that you are willing to listen without judgment. Many mental health symptoms can be improved simply by talking. You can help alleviate some of your loved one’s suffering by listening actively.

Of course, many people with mental health disorders need clinical support, including medication and psychotherapy. As a non-mental health professional, your support can only go so far. At some point in your conversations, you might want to acknowledge that. However, it’s immensely beneficial for you to be a safe helper for your family member or friend. When they know they can trust you to listen, they may eventually become willing to listen to your advice too.

Encouraging Professional Help for Mental Illness

Unless you are a mental health professional, you’re unlikely to be able to help your loved one achieve a level of symptom relief that can significantly improve their quality of life. Psychiatric professionals rely on evidence-based treatments that are safe and have been proven effective for the treatment of various mental health disorders.

When a person stubbornly refuses to seek treatment for their mental health condition, you may be unable to convince them with one conversation. You may want to begin your conversation by discussing what mental health practitioners do. Often, when a person refuses to see a mental health provider, they don’t actually know what happens in treatment sessions. Educate yourself to explain what types of treatments are available for the symptoms your loved one is experiencing.

Be sure to explain how mental health professionals can dramatically improve mental health outcomes. Let them know what’s at stake by continuing to avoid seeking help. Relationship problems and even job loss could easily accompany continued suffering. Explain the risks of ignoring mental health problems and how serious mental health conditions can quickly worsen.

By educating yourself about mental illness, you can share your discoveries. Let your loved one know how commonplace mental illness is and how mental health treatment leads to positive outcomes. Education can help remove the fear and stigma your loved one might associate with mental health therapy. Avoid becoming frustrated if you can’t convince your loved one to seek help early in your conversations. Be patient, but also look for signs of condition escalation. There may come a time when you need to take some emergency measures to ensure your loved one’s safety.

Invoking Involuntary Commitment

There may come a point in your loved one’s illness when you believe they are no longer competent to make decisions for themself. If you believe your loved one has become suicidal or hallucinated, you may need to step in and consider an involuntary commitment to get someone mental help when needed. Invoking involuntary commitment is a serious step, and few people relish the idea of denying a person of their freedom and autonomy; however, involuntary commitment might be the only way to help your loved one in extreme situations.

There are, of course, legal and ethical implications associated with involuntary commitment. Different states have different laws associated with involuntary commitment. If you are considering this measure, you’ll want to discuss your concerns with an accredited treatment facility or hospital like Alter Behavioral Health. Our mental health specialists can discuss when this type of measure may be needed and how to initiate involuntary confinement and treatment for a loved one.

Mental health support alter behavioral health

Mental Health Resources and Support

Now that you have some more information and tips to discuss with a friend or loved one, it’s important also to know that you’re not alone — and resources and support are available to help you and your friend or loved one through this journey. Read on to learn more about the different tools and services that can help during this time.

Mental Health Support Groups

Professional treatment is an essential route for mental health recovery. However, your loved one can benefit from other forms of mental health support. Mental health support groups can be vital to your loved one’s long-term recovery and successful management of their condition.

Alter Behavioral Health can help you find the ideal resources and support for your loved one. Support group participation allows people diagnosed with a mental illness to connect with others who are also managing similar conditions and circumstances. It can be a big help for people to know that they aren’t alone and that what they’re struggling with isn’t unique to them. Feeling connected to others can be a lifeline.

It can also be helpful for people with a mental illness to help and support others who are also struggling with mental health symptoms like anxiety or depression. During support group sessions, leaders will often discuss topics that relate to the group as a whole. Participants can talk or listen; they can also provide support for others. It’s not uncommon for people to attend support groups indefinitely as part of their long-term condition maintenance strategy.

There are various support groups and resources in communities today. Popular ones include those for substance abuse addiction like Alcoholics Anonymous. However, many groups meet in reference to other conditions like depression or attention deficit disorder. The National Alliance on Mental Health is a major mental health resource that people suffering from mental illness should know about.

Remember that Alter Behavioral Health can help you locate support groups and resources that are ideally suited to your condition and needs. We feature many on-site resources but can also help our patients find additional resources in their homes or nearby communities.

Navigating Mental Health Resources

Many mental health resources today include suicide hotlines, mental health apps, and community services. Which ones are right for you or your loved one? Let Alter Behavioral Health help you navigate these resources. We can assist you throughout the process as you determine your needs and what resources may satisfy those needs. We’re proud to offer resources in California that can be vital in getting someone mental help.

Alter Behavioral Health is known for providing compassionate, evidence-based care to our patients, and we have a strong record of helping people from all walks of life. Here, we can help you or your loved one.

FAQs: Strategies for Getting Someone Mental Help When They Refuse

You have questions, and we have answers. Here are some common questions that might come up and some guidance on each issue. If there’s something you’re still wondering about after reading this list, don’t hesitate to contact Alter Behavioral Health to find out more.

Q1: What are some effective strategies for getting someone mental help when they refuse?

If you need to convince a loved one to seek mental health care, you can use these strategies to persuade them. Remember, you may not be able to persuade them at once. It may take numerous conversations.

Get educated about mental illness and the symptoms your loved one is experiencing. Then, you can share what you’ve learned with them.
Take time to listen. Encourage your loved one to talk about their symptoms. It may help them but also help you understand their struggles so you can help them better.
Talk about the benefits of mental health treatment and how far professional treatment has come.
Talk about challenging the stigma of mental health. Explain that the stigma is beginning to disappear in many places as people become aware of how prevalent mental illness is and how crucial it is to get help.

Q2: How do I approach someone who refuses mental help without causing further resistance?

If someone you love stubbornly refuses to get help, don’t aggravate them. Instead, visit them and listen. It’s great support to monitor them. There may come a time when you have to take steps to commit them for their own protection involuntarily.

Q3: Are there alternative approaches to traditional therapy that can be helpful for someone who refuses mental help?

You can encourage your loved one to try some alternative or holistic therapies that may help. For instance, many people benefit from yoga or meditation. However, these therapies may not be nearly as effective as professional mental health treatment.

Q4: How can I build trust and open communication with someone who is resistant to seeking mental help?

Simply listening to your loved one can help you build trust. Give honest advice but be sure to listen.

Q5: What resources are available for supporting reluctant individuals in seeking mental help?

Visit Alter Behavioral Health for assistance if you have a loved one who is resistant to professional help.

Q6: How can I involve friends and family in the process of getting someone mental help when they refuse?

Talk to friends and family. Explain your concerns and develop a plan to support the loved one.

Q7: What should I do if the person I’m trying to help refuses all forms of treatment or therapy?

Continue to monitor your loved one. If they reach a point where they become unable to care for themselves or are in danger of hurting themselves or someone else, you may need to commit them involuntarily.

Q8: Are there community organizations or support groups that can assist in getting someone mental help?

There are various community and national resources that can provide support. Contact Alter Behavioral Health for local, state, and national resources.

Q9: What role does effective communication play in encouraging help-seeking behavior?

Listening and calm discussion are the keys to encouraging a loved one to seek professional mental health treatment.

Q10: How can I better understand the reasons behind someone’s refusal to seek mental help?

Often, the stigma of mental illness prevents people from asking for help. Meet with Alter Behavioral Health for professional guidance for supporting your loved one in the best ways.

Call Alter Behavioral Health at 866-647-2716 today to schedule your consultation, or contact our team online.

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Finding Mental Health Facilities in Orange County

June 30, 2023/in Mental Illness/by Alter Behavioral Health

Alter Behavioral Health Can Help

Struggling with a mental illness can prove challenging — and serious. It’s important to find a mental healthcare provider so that you can share your symptoms and get the support you need to manage your condition. Alter Behavioral Health is a leading choice for mental health facilities in Orange County. Our clinicians are credentialed, experienced, and devoted to providing empathetic care to our patients.

Unfortunately, not everyone who experiences the signs and symptoms of a mental illness seeks out treatment. Many people may not be aware that what they are experiencing is mental illness. Others might fear the stigma associated with a diagnosis. At Alter Behavioral Health, we provide patients with a thorough evaluation that allows us to make a proper diagnosis. Mental illnesses are highly treatable, and the stigma associated with mental and mood disorders is gradually easing as people realize how common mental illness actually is.

If you are experiencing the symptoms of a mental illness, especially serious ones or ones that persist, you should schedule an appointment at Alter because mental health facilities in Orange County can help you. Mental health disorders can worsen quickly. Let us help you manage your symptoms and get on a path to mental wellness.

Alter Behavioral Health features clinicians who are experienced in treating numerous mental health conditions. Our treatment facility accepts a wide range of health insurance plans. We rely on the best evidence-based medical therapies to treat our patients. Treatments generally include psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medication management, but we always individualize treatment to ensure patients get support that’s tailored to their needs.

Providing compassionate care is the cornerstone of our work. We love helping our patients learn to manage their condition and achieve improvements in the quality of their lives. Although many conditions cannot be cured, they can be managed successfully. We provide patients with the care, support, and tools they need to manage their symptoms and become empowered to take care of themselves. Of course, with our ongoing support, we’re here to guide each patient to improved mental wellness.

What Treatments Do Mental Health Facilities in Orange County Offer?

Alter Behavioral Health offers a wide range of mental health treatments. How we treat each patient depends on the condition they have, their symptoms, and their unique needs and preferences. Today, there are many types of therapies used to treat mental health disorders that are backed by the medical community. Our clinicians remain up-to-date with the best practices for treating various kinds of mental illnesses.

Because we treat a broad spectrum of mental illnesses, patients can get the help they need. Some patients suffer from more than one condition. We are able to provide treatment for patients with the most complex diagnoses. Through dedicated case management, we help patients along their path to recovery or improved condition management. You don’t have to struggle alone. Our care team is here to support you, and our treatments are among the most respected in the medical field.

Who Should Consider Getting Help at a Mental Health Facility?

Everybody experiences distressing mental health symptoms at some point. Often, these symptoms dissipate on their own. But what happens when they don’t go away or get worse? What happens if you experience symptoms that you suspect aren’t usual? In these cases, you should always get help from your mental healthcare provider or doctor. A primary doctor may treat some mental illness, but will often refer patients to professional mental healthcare providers for a diagnosis and treatment.

Every year, 1 in 5 people will experience mental illness. These people should get help at mental health facilities in Orange County. Why? Because getting help improves symptom management and quality of life, and it can prevent the condition from getting worse, which is a serious threat. If you feel mentally or emotionally unstable, don’t wait. Relief and support are available. Alter Behavioral Health features a first-rate team of clinicians and support staff. Let us provide you with the help you manage your condition going forward. You may find that treatment completely dissipates your symptoms. You may require ongoing management. Regardless, you can expect to feel better with help.

Conditions Treated at a Mental Health Facility

Alter Behavioral Health provides care for many different mental health disorders. Some of the conditions we treat include:

Autism co-occurring disorders.
Depression.
Anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, panic disorders, social anxiety).
Bipolar disorder.
Trauma and PTSD.
Schizophrenia.
Borderline personality disorder.
ADHD.
Dissociative identity disorder.

Each of these conditions is associated with many different types of therapies that are effective for condition management. We continue to embrace new and promising therapies that have the support of the medical community. We rely on safe therapies and practices that are medically sanctioned. If you suspect you may have a mental health condition or simply aren’t sure, visit us for a consultation.

4 Things to Consider When Searching for Mental Health Facilities in Orange County

orange county mental health treatment facility

As you seek mental health facilities in Orange County, it’s helpful to keep certain criteria in mind. We’ll outline a few that can help you make a good facility selection:

Accreditation

Choose an accredited treatment facility. Accreditation means that the facility meets or exceeds rigorous medical standards. The facility, treatments, and clinicians must pass annual accreditation inspections to maintain their accreditation standing.

Expert Staff

Choose a treatment facility staffed by mental health professionals and specialists. At Alter Behavioral Health, our clinicians have the expertise and experience needed to treat a broad range of mental illnesses.

Facility

Be sure that you select a treatment center with a top-notch facility. Look for one that is expertly maintained and designed to be conducive to healing.

References

See what other patients say about any treatment center you have in mind. At Alter Behavioral Health, we’ve helped thousands of patients. Read reviews to get to know our facility and providers. Our quality of care speaks for itself. No matter what facility you select, always check its reviews

Call Alter and Get Help from a Top Choice for Mental Health Facilities in Orange County

Don’t put off getting help if you’re experiencing mental health symptoms. If you’ve been feeling anxious or depressed for more than two weeks, for instance, it is crucial to seek help for a diagnosis and treatment that’s designed to reduce or eliminate your symptoms and prevent your condition from getting worse. If you are experiencing serious mental health symptoms like suicidal thoughts, hallucinations, or anything else out of the ordinary, call us right away or visit an area hospital. Mental health facilities in Orange County are here to help.

Alter Behavioral Health is a top choice for mental healthcare in Orange County, California. We offer a broad range of treatments to ensure we can provide real help for our patients, medical help that makes a tremendous difference in their lives. When you visit us and receive a diagnosis, we’ll develop a treatment plan that’s tailored for you. We can help you move forward through effective condition management so that you experience improvements in your condition.

Call Alter Behavioral Health at 866-647-2716 today to schedule your consultation, or contact our team online. Our clinicians will provide the empathetic care our facility is known for. You’ll find our treatment center to have a positive environment that’s conducive to authentic healing. We look forward to helping you manage your condition and experience improved well-being and quality of life.

16 Signs of a Mentally Unstable Person

June 30, 2023/in Mental Illness/by Alter Behavioral Health

Alter Behavioral Health Can Help in California

Everyone can go through a challenging time mentally. That’s perfectly normal. It’s unrealistic for people to expect smooth emotional sailing all the time. However, negative emotions, stress, and various other factors could lead a person to develop some mental instability. Their mental state might be temporary or it might highlight the presence of a mental disorder, and it’s important to know the signs of a mentally unstable person that can point to a problem that needs help.

If you or a loved one is showing signs of instability, mental distress, or a mental health disorder, it’s important to seek treatment. Alter Behavioral Health specializes in treatment for people suffering from mental or behavioral health problems. We understand how important it is for people experiencing mental health issues to have an evaluation. Let our clinicians help you manage your condition and reduce or eliminate your symptoms. We treat the health condition as well as the person, helping each patient achieve improved wellness and quality of life.

At Alter Behavioral Health, individualized care is crucial. Each patient is unique. With modern therapies and medications, we can help people manage their conditions successfully. Don’t put off mental or behavioral health treatment if there are signs of a mentally unstable person, because conditions can worsen. Get the support you need right away.

Alter Behavioral Health offers a full lineup of behavioral and mental health treatments. We are a top-rated behavioral healthcare center that provides help for conditions like autism, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, and more. We feature experienced and credentialed clinicians who provide empathetic care to every patient. We also individualize all treatments to ensure that each patient gets the support they need to achieve their recovery milestones.

If you are searching for a California behavioral health center, you can get the help you need at Alter Behavioral Health. When you visit, we can perform a mental health evaluation. With a proper diagnosis, we can develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your condition and specific care needs. Today’s mental health treatments are highly effective. In fact, there are many paths to improved condition management. Visit us and learn more about how we can help you improve your mental health.

How is Mental Illness Defined?

A mental illness is a condition that causes changes in a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. These changes can impact a person’s life, family, relationships, career, and every other aspect of their life. Mental illness can cause distress for both the mind and body. Nearly 20% of adults in the U.S. experience some mental illness. One in 24 people will have a serious mental health condition.

There are many types of mental illnesses, including mood disorders such as bipolar disorder and depression, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and more. Mental illness is a general term covering the myriad of mental health disorders. If you are diagnosed with a mental illness, your mental healthcare provider will give you an overview of the condition and how it is manifesting in you–your symptoms. Some people have more than one diagnosis. Even in these cases, treatment can be highly successful.

Common Types of Mental Health Disorders

There are various common types of mental health disorders. These include:

Anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, separation anxiety disorder).
Mood disorders (bipolar disorder, depression).
Post-traumatic stress disorder.
Eating disorders.
Disruptive behavior disorders.
Eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia).
Dissociative disorders.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder.

These disorders affect millions of people nationwide, but still, more people may be diagnosed. There remains a substantial portion of people who go undiagnosed because they suffer in silence. There continues to be a stigma about mental illness that prevents people from seeking treatment. People are apprehensive about treatment and worry that their condition will impact their ability to get or keep their job or qualify for promotion.

16 Signs Someone is Mentally Ill

There are various symptoms and signs of a mentally unstable person. Be sure to pay attention to any signs and symptoms that arise. When you do visit Alter Behavioral Health, it’s important to report all signs and symptoms you’ve been experiencing to your mental healthcare provider. Even seemingly unimportant signs are important to report. This will help your practitioner to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe the ideal course of treatment and medications. The signs and symptoms that someone is mentally ill include:

Feeling sad (for two weeks or more).
Inability to concentrate or feeling confused.
Extreme and persistent fear or worry.
Withdrawing from friends and family.
Inability to cope with stress.
Problems with alcohol or drug use.
Changes in sex drive.
Excessive hostility or anger.
Changes in eating habits.
Thoughts of suicide.
Feeling disconnected.
Apathy.
Unusual behavior.
Experiencing delusional thoughts.
Hallucinations and delusions.
Sleep problems.

If you experience these symptoms, you should see your doctor or a mental healthcare provider. Some symptoms like having suicidal thoughts are emergencies. If you are having thoughts of suicide, you should seek emergency care right away.

Treatment and Therapy Options for Mental Health Disorders

mentally unstable person signs

If you are diagnosed with a mental illness or behavioral health disorder, your Alter clinician will carefully explain what your condition is and what you may expect. Your treatment and therapy will depend on the type of disorder you have and its severity. Today, there are many treatment options, so expect your practitioner to attempt to match you to the treatments that are most likely to achieve positive results.

There are many types of mental health treatments and therapies. Accredited medical facilities will feature evidence-based treatments. These are treatments that have been rigorously tested by medical researchers. They’ve been proven with clinical studies that they are safe and effective for the treatment of patients with associated mental health conditions. The rigorous study applies to therapies and medications. Some of the most common types of mental health treatments include:

Medication

Today’s mental health medications are known for their safety and efficacy when used as directed by a medical provider. Many will have some side effects. When taking medications, it’s important to understand the side effects and report them, especially serious ones, to your healthcare provider. Some common medications used to treat the symptoms of various disorders include:

Mood stabilizers.
Antidepressants.
Anti-anxiety medications.
Antipsychotics.

Generally, healthcare providers will pair medication with a form or various forms of psychotherapy to treat patients.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is essentially talk therapy. Therapists help patients identify aspects of their condition and then develop strategies for managing it successfully.

Hospitalization

In some cases, patients need hospitalization so that they can be monitored. Some symptoms can be dangerous. For instance, patients with suicidal thoughts or intentions to perform self-harm often require hospital care, as do patients who suffer from delusions and hallucinations.

Call Alter Behavioral Health for Help If You See Signs of a Mentally Unstable Person

If you or a loved one is experiencing the common signs of a mentally unstable person or other mental health symptoms, you can contact Alter Behavioral Health for advice. You can also visit our healthcare facility to get the support you need. Ignoring signs and symptoms of mental illness is never a good idea. Take these signs seriously because mental health disorders can quickly escalate in severity. With treatment, most conditions can be managed successfully. Call Alter Behavioral Health today at 866-647-2716 to schedule a consultation or contact us online. We’re ready to help.

How Many Mental Disorders Are There?

June 23, 2023/in Mental Illness/by Alter Behavioral Health

Help is Available in California

If you have been diagnosed with a mental health disorder, or if you believe you may have mental health issues, it can feel overwhelming or confusing. For many people, when they ask how many mental disorders are there, they may actually be wondering whether their unique condition can be diagnosed and treated — and in the majority of cases, the answer is yes. Although every person is an individual, with a unique history, emotional response, brain chemistry, and lifestyle, with a proper and careful diagnosis, their condition will be treatable.

At Alter Behavioral Health, we offer modern, evidence-based care in our residential treatment programs. We aim to make mental health care accessible and affordable to adults in need throughout California, with the aim of transforming lives and improving mental health outcomes. We ensure that your physical, psychological, social, and educational needs are met in a personalized treatment plan developed by skilled therapists and clinicians. Our team cares about helping you, and we can provide you with powerful tools for long-term wellness.

What is a Mental Disorder?

A mental disorder is any type of disorder that occurs within the brain, affecting how a person thinks and behaves, as well as their emotional regulation. There is often an impairment in the way they function during everyday life, which may cause feelings of distress. These disorders can develop due to environmental stress, genetic factors, biochemical imbalances, or a combination of all of these factors.

Although having a mental disorder is quite common — about 1 of every 8 people worldwide have one — most people never receive effective care for their condition. At Alter Behavioral Health, we aim to destigmatize conversations surrounding mental health, so more people can get the help they need.

How Many Mental Disorders Are There?

how many mental disorders

Mental health is often misunderstood and can sometimes be stigmatized, with people feeling shame or trying to mask their symptoms rather than seeking the help they need. Due to the stigma surrounding mental health, for years, researchers have had to ask the question, “How many mental disorders are there?”

Although every patient is unique, there are categories of mental health conditions that can help us to identify and treat the symptoms of the disorder, along with the root causes through targeted therapies and prescription medications. There may be more than 200 types of mental illness, but the most common categories are:

Anxiety Disorders

People with an anxiety disorder often experience excessive worry, fear, and panic and anticipate the worst possible outcome, which may cause significant stress and impair their ability to function normally in everyday life. Common anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, phobias, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and separation anxiety disorder.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Related Disorders

These disorders often involve repetitive actions, uncontrollable recurring thoughts, or preoccupations and compulsions that feel impossible to resist. These disorders include obsessive-compulsive disorder, hoarding disorder, and trichotillomania (hair pulling).

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

After experiencing a traumatic or shocking event, a person may develop long-lasting symptoms that include re-experiencing (flashbacks/nightmares), avoidance of things, people, or places that remind them of the event, an inability to remember the event, and being on edge, jumpy, or in “fight-or-flight” mode. These symptoms last several weeks to years and impair the ability to live a normal life.

Depression

Clinical depression is not the same as sadness. A person experiencing depression will be sad or irritable, or they may even feel empty, without feeling pleasure or interest in normal activities. They may also experience guilt, low self-worth, hopelessness, sleep issues, and thoughts about death or dying. Along with major depressive disorder, these symptoms can also accompany premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

Bipolar Disorder

This is a disorder that causes a person to experience alternating depressive episodes (sadness, hopelessness, lethargy, irritability) and manic episodes (euphoria, increased energy, racing thoughts, decreased need for sleep, and impulsive behavior). This condition is generally diagnosed when manic episodes last 7 days or longer, for most of the day, nearly every day, or when they are very severe. This condition can severely disrupt a person’s life without treatment.

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia often involves significant impairment in the way a person behaves and how they perceive the world. They may experience hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking and behavior, or extreme agitation, as well as difficulties with cognition. It may feel like a detachment from reality and can make it difficult to function day to day.

Personality Disorders

A person with a personality disorder will display a lasting pattern of emotional instability and behaviors that cause serious interpersonal and relationship issues. Common personality disorders include borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, and narcissistic personality disorder.

Eating Disorders

The most well-known eating disorders are bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa, but there are others as well. These are characterized by abnormal eating habits, along with a preoccupation with food, body shape, and body weight. These disorders can cause significant distress and impairment, along with serious health issues that could become deadly if left untreated.

Disruptive Behavior and Dissocial Disorders

Common disorders in this category include oppositional defiant disorder, kleptomania, intermittent explosive disorder, and conduct disorders. These disorders all include problems with behavioral and emotional self-control and defiance of rules and societal norms, and they usually begin to develop in childhood.

Neurodevelopmental Disorders

These disorders include intellectual development disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and may include issues with adaptive disorders, difficulty in social situations, motor language issues, intellectual functions, or difficulties with attention. Proper diagnosis and treatment for these conditions are individualized depending on the person’s unique needs, with psychosocial interventions, behavioral interventions, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and sometimes medications involved.

How Are Mental Disorders Diagnosed?

For many people, it can be difficult to know whether you are experiencing a mental health problem, and it can be harder to determine if you’re wondering how many mental disorders are there. Some common symptoms in adults include confusion, excessive fear or worry, social withdrawal, dramatic changes in eating and sleeping habits, prolonged depression and irritability, hallucinations or delusional thinking, unexplained physical pains or ailments, and an increasing inability to cope with everyday life.

These symptoms should not be due to substance use or a recent event (for example, being sad after the death of a loved one, or feeling anxious due to an upcoming presentation), but should be persisting or recurring over a period of time.

There are steps to diagnosing mental disorders that may include a physical health exam by a doctor to rule out any physical causes of your symptoms. Laboratory tests are also sometimes ordered to screen for hormonal or chemical imbalances or substances in the system that may be causing issues.

A psychological evaluation will be the next step for many, with a doctor or mental health professional speaking to you about how you have been feeling, how long you have been feeling that way, what kinds of thoughts you have been having, and how your life is going. They may try to identify specific symptoms, patterns, or behaviors that could point to the type of disorder or disorders that you are experiencing.

These professionals will take time with you to go over everything in detail. They will then look up your symptoms using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), a manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, and then offer a diagnosis so you can get the appropriate treatment.

Alter Can Help with the Treatment of Mental Disorders

At Alter Behavioral Health, we offer free diagnostic assessments at our world-class mental health treatment center in California. Every diagnosis we make is based on the latest medical health science discoveries, and the care we provide is holistic in nature, combining medications with psychotherapy and other modalities, providing a full recovery.

We value data-directed and innovative thinking, integrity, and compassion, and our team strives for excellence in care. Coming to Alter Behavioral Health’s inpatient treatment facility for your diagnosis and treatment of your mental health issue will give you the best possible outcome. If you’re wondering how many mental disorders are there, please call us today at 866-647-2716. We can answer your questions regarding diagnosis and the mental health services we offer. We are here to talk and ready to help you now.

How to Treat Stress Response Syndrome

June 21, 2023/in Mental Illness/by Alter Behavioral Health

When Adjusting Is Difficult

Many times in a person’s life, we need to adapt. Big changes can happen, sometimes unexpectedly, and it can be hard to adjust. In the case of a loss, a traumatic event, or even a positive life change like changing careers or moving to a new city, some people become overwhelmed with the stressful feelings accompanying change. These events or life issues can feel devastating and very difficult to cope with, causing the development of a condition known as stress response syndrome. Luckily, this mental condition has mental health treatment options to help overcome it.

What Is Stress Response Syndrome?

Stress response syndrome is called when the mind and body react to an external stressor, causing a person to experience more stress than expected. The “fight or flight” response is triggered, with the body staying alert and ready for so long that the system eventually adapts to cope with high levels of stress, continuing to secrete stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol long after it is necessary.

This syndrome affects how you feel and starts to cause problems in your everyday life. You may have trouble at work, you may experience difficulties in your relationships, and you may begin to develop further mental health disorders like anxiety or depression due to the behavioral and emotional reactions you are experiencing. You may also experience symptoms like:

Tearfulness, feeling sad or hopeless
Difficulty sleeping
Loss of appetite or overeating
Frustration and irritability
Difficulty functioning in daily activities like work or social gatherings
Feeling overwhelmed or distressed
Avoiding essential things like paying your bills or calling in sick to work
Feeling worried, anxious, or stressed out
Changes in the way you think and feel about the world\
Headaches or stomach aches
New, destructive behaviors like drug use, reckless driving, etc.
Withdrawal or isolation from people you care about

The good news is that stress response syndrome is absolutely treatable and will not last forever, especially if you receive the proper care and therapy. At Alter Behavioral Health, our team is experienced in treating mental illnesses like stress response syndrome, and we are here now to help you if you are feeling overwhelmed with life.

Who Is at Risk of Stress Response Syndrome?

Anybody can experience stress response syndrome, regardless of age, gender, or lifestyle. It is usually triggered during or after a major life event like experiencing the death of a loved one, having a serious illness, losing a job, ending a relationship, being in an accident, having a baby, or experiencing a natural disaster. Positive or negative in nature, any big change can cause this syndrome to develop.
It may be that certain genetic traits cause some people’s bodies to react more strongly to stress or that a person’s past life experiences and traumatic events can increase a person’s vulnerability.

There is no known way to prevent yourself from developing stress response syndrome, but it has been noted that those with strong community and family support may have an easier time working through major changes, and with proper clinical treatment, anybody can see improvements.

9 Impacts of Stress Response Syndrome

Some of the impacts of untreated, long-term stress response syndrome include:

Experiencing burnout and fatigue
A weakened immune system
Reduced stress tolerance
Muscle tension and pain
Digestive issues
Reproductive issues
Increased risk of heart disease, heart attack, and high blood pressure
Memory and cognition impairment
Certain disorders may develop out of feeling long-term, consistent stress, such as mood disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, insomnia, and more

Stress Response Syndrome Treatment

Treatment Options for Stress Response Syndrome

The treatment for stress response syndrome is multifaceted and depending on your individual circumstances may include treatments like:

Interpersonal therapy – This type of therapy is a one-on-one conversation with your therapist in which you explore current events in your life. You will look at your current relationships, the changes in your life, and how these factors may affect your behavior and stress responses. Understanding the “why” behind your feelings and actions can be a huge relief and can prompt changes in the way you think about things and in your actions as well
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) – This is a form of talk therapy that focuses on challenging your thoughts and making changes to the way you behave. CBT helps people to see the connection between thoughts, emotions, and actions, making big mindset changes that can help the client move forward in life on a more positive trajectory
Prescription medications – Not everybody needs medication to treat the symptoms of stress, but if you have a co-occurring mental health disorder or have further issues that cannot be treated by therapy alone, certain psychiatric medications may be included in your treatment program. Your dosage and diagnosis will be made by qualified professionals and maybe a long-term or short-term temporary prescription depending on your individual needs
Living a healthier life – eating well, getting exercise, seeing things through a positive lens, having a good sense of humor, not taking life too seriously, using relaxation techniques, and taking time for gratitude can help reduce feelings of everyday stress
Support at home – surrounding yourself with supportive people and cultivating healthy friendships can provide you with more support and give you somebody to talk to when life feels overwhelming

Alter Behavioral Health Is Ready to Help If You’re How to Treat Stress Response Syndrome

The thought of seeking help when you are experiencing high levels of stress may feel like you are adding even more work onto your already overloaded plate, but the reality is that the sooner you get treatment for your stress disorder, the better you will feel.

There are many strategies and coping mechanisms you can use in your daily life to protect yourself and deal with difficult life situations, and with the help of the caring and compassionate team at Alter Behavioral Health, you will learn how to transform your life into a positive way, while improving the way that you feel on a day-by-day basis.

Our skilled therapists and clinicians use data-directed holistic care in our California-based residential facility to address each of our client’s physical, psychological, social, and educational needs so that we can lead them down a personalized path to healing. Treatment at Alter Behavioral Health is provided inside a safe, calming environment where you can stop, regroup, and focus on your healing without life’s everyday stress getting in the way.

Your customized care plan may include different types of therapy and medication. For some, staying in our residential center is ideal, while others can opt for regular visits while living at home in an outpatient treatment program. We will work hard to treat stress’s physical and psychological impact on your current condition and give you useful tools to help you with future stress.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by the stress in your life and are wondering what you can do to overcome this difficult time, please call 866-647-2716. Our team will answer your questions and help you to decide whether residential treatment with our team is appropriate for your needs.

4 Types of Autism in Adults

June 19, 2023/in Mental Illness/by Alter Behavioral Health

Experiencing the World in a Different Way

People living with autism spectrum disorder, both children and adults, explore and experience the world in their own unique way. Autism is a lifelong developmental disorder that has impacts on a person’s social and cognitive abilities. As this is a disorder characterized as being on a spectrum, there are rarely two people with autism that have shared experiences. Each person has their own unique challenges and successes within their diagnosis — and it’s important that both aspects are recognized and honored. When a person is living with autism, it’s critical for them and their loved ones to have knowledge and awareness about the symptoms and impacts of autism to support them to thrive and have a happy, fulfilling life. Read on to learn more about the types of autism in adults.

What Are the Signs of Autism in Adults?

There is a common misconception that autism is always diagnosed in childhood. While the hope is to have early detection and diagnosis of autism, there are times when children grow up without a diagnosis. Some of the common signs of the types of autism in adults can include the following:

Difficulty regulating emotions.
Challenges with making conversation.
Experiencing challenges in making or keeping friendships.
Having discomfort with making eye contact.
Inflexible thought patterns.
Demonstrating repetitive behaviors.
Difficulty relating to people and understanding others’ emotions.
Social anxiety.
Only have interest in a few, limited activities.
Showing extreme interest in one particular hobby or topic.
Having a preference for solo activities.
Making involuntary noises, such as clearing the throat or making certain sounds.
Difficulty reading or understanding body or facial language.
Inability or struggle to understand sarcasm.
Frequent monologues or talking about certain topics.
Challenges dealing with change.
Reliance on the need for a daily routine.
The need to rearrange items in a certain order.
Being hypersensitive to certain sounds or smells.
Substantial visual or auditory learning skills.
Increased knowledge and expertise in certain subjects, such as math, science, or music.
Retaining information quickly and remembering information for long periods of time.

4 Types of Autism in Adults

adults with autism

There are 4 common types of autism in adults:

Asperger’s Syndrome

This form of autism, also known as Level 1 autism spectrum disorder, is characterized by high levels of intelligence and strong verbal communication. Challenges that adults living with Level 1 autism might face include challenges in switching activities, executive functioning problems, difficulty expressing emotions, difficulties in peer interactions, or inflexibility in thoughts or behaviors.

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)

This form of autism is characterized by a delayed onset of developmental problems in social functioning, motor skills, or language. Typically, normal development will occur until it reaches a certain point in the person’s developmental stage, and the person will begin to regress in functioning and capability.

Kanner’s Syndrome

This is often described as “classic autism” by some doctors. People living with Kanner’s Syndrome will appear alert and responsive in conversation and day-to-day activities. Some challenges they may experience include a lack of emotional attachment to others, uncontrollable speech, challenges with communicating or interacting with others, and a high capacity for rote memory but difficulty in learning other areas.

Pervasive Developmental Disorder

This is a mild form of autism spectrum disorder that has a range of symptoms centered around language and social development.

How Are Autism Spectrum Disorders Diagnosed in Adults?

Autism is often diagnosed in childhood; however, if you or someone you know thinks they may be living with one of the types of autism in adults, there are steps you can take to get formally diagnosed. The first step if you believe you may be living with autism is to speak with your doctor about the signs or symptoms that you’re experiencing. Your physician can provide you with referrals to speak with a psychiatrist or neuropsychologist that can complete a formal autism spectrum assessment. An assessment may include speaking with a psychologist about your childhood experiences socially, in school, and with developmental growth and stages. You may also be asked to explore how your adulthood experiences have been thus far.

Another part of the ASD assessment can include psychiatric testing or going to a speech pathologist who will assess your social and communication skills. All information collected will be used to determine if you have autism spectrum disorder.

What Causes Autism?

There is no specific cause for autism spectrum disorder. There has been research that suggests there are certain risk factors that have been linked to ASD. Risk factors include:

Genetic risk factors: Research indicates that there is a higher probability for families living with autism to pass it on to children. While this is not a direct link to autism, it can increase the risk for some children.
Environmental risk factors: This includes factors such as advanced parent age, pregnancies spaced within one year of each other, and pregnancy or birth complications.
Premature birth: Preterm babies can have an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder.
Other medical conditions: Children with certain medical conditions can have an increased likelihood of developing autism.

Living with an Autism Diagnosis

People living with an autism diagnosis have the ability to live healthy, fulfilling lives. It doesn’t mean your life stops if you’re diagnosed with autism in adulthood. In fact, many adults that are diagnosed with autism get the unique opportunity to learn more about themselves, their behaviors, and how they interact with the world around them. Often, this provides valuable insight into a person’s past and childhood, including certain challenges that they may have experienced throughout their developing years. It can help to shed light on relationship struggles throughout childhood or during adulthood. These realizations can lead a person down a clear path of treatment and healing to learn effective behavior and emotional regulation techniques that will assist them in thriving in the future. As you reflect on your past, you can identify what has worked for you before and get to know your strengths so you can utilize these strengths and abilities moving forward in your life.

Is Treatment Available for the Types of Autism in Adults?

Yes, there are treatment methods available for adults with autism that can vary in styles and focuses for treatment and behavior management. It’s important to mention that treatment for autism is not intended to be a cure but rather a tool for managing any symptoms and maintaining healthy emotional, behavioral, and developmental functioning. There are various forms of therapy that work to target specific symptoms or areas of concern, such as communication, social interactions, or behavioral patterns. A therapist can help you identify these habits or challenges and learn tools to overcome any barriers you’re experiencing. Depending on your specific circumstances, you may also wish to participate in vocational rehabilitation that aims to support you in developing or gaining workplace-related skills.

Alter Behavioral Health Offers Support for All Types of Autism in Adults

At Alter Behavioral Health, we value the incredible strengths and assets that adults living with autism bring to this world. We know that as an adult who is just receiving a diagnosis of autism, it can feel overwhelming to figure out what your next steps are. Our team is here to help you receive the appropriate therapies and support you need to help you prosper and thrive in your day-to-day life and shine your beautiful insight and soul to the world around you. Contact Alter Behavioral Health today to let our team work alongside you to give you the tools and support you need to have the fulfilling, prosperous life you want. We can help with all of the types of autism in adults. Call us today at 866-647-2716 today to learn more.

Patient Credits Alter Behavioral Health for Saving Her Life

June 19, 2023/in Mental Illness/by Alter Behavioral Health

Mission Viejo, California—A woman was so happy with the mental health care she received at Alter Behavioral Health, she left a grateful 5-star review on Google.

“My life was saved!!!!” wrote Alexis, who underwent treatment at Alter’s facility in Mission Viejo, California. “What a wonderful experience. Taking time to help myself was the best choice of my life. The staff is caring, attentive, and kind. The personal chef was amazing, cooking healthy meals daily. The food was delicious. Structured daily classes that allowed me to work through personal trauma. Fostering personal growth. The best of the best. Highly recommended.”

Alexis found the compassionate, expert care that all patients receive at Alter Behavioral Health, a residential treatment program with locations throughout Orange County, California. It offers treatment for primary mental health and co-occurring disorders, including attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder, anxiety, depression, disrupted sleep, disrupted sleep, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality and mood disorders, suicide ideation, and borderline personality disorder. Autism-informed care is one of its specialties.

patient credits alter for saving her life

Her praise for Alter’s staff is also uncommon; many patients offer enthusiastic reviews of the teams caring for them. Every day, these dedicated professionals live Alter’s mission of transforming lives and contributing to a better world by improving mental health treatment methods and outcomes. To accomplish the task, they use data-directed methods with innovation, compassion, integrity, and constant devotion to excellence.

Alter strives to make high-quality mental health care accessible to adults by applying a modern approach that treats the whole person, not just their condition. It has a particular emphasis on accurate diagnosis. This is often the most crucial point of treatment; if the diagnosis is wrong, there’s a strong likelihood that the following treatment may also be wrong, and the condition will not be resolved. In order to begin with as accurate a diagnosis as possible, Alter’s treatment teams base their diagnoses on current findings in mental health science and combine medication with psychotherapy and other modalities as needed to provide the best outcomes. To ensure a precise diagnosis, teams meticulously assess a full range of symptoms and ensure no condition is overlooked or hastily diagnosed.

Patients continue receiving care even after residential treatment ends, thanks to Alter’s virtual mental health platform, Mindfuli. This innovative approach to aftercare is designed to help patients and counselors stay connected for as long as they need. It’s a virtual program designed to provide a wide range of mental health services services for patients and give support to family members. Patients begin using the platform upon admission to Alter and are paired with Care Counselors to start using it.

Alter provides care in a serene residential facility that is designed to make patients comfortable, which makes them more open to treatment. Rather than the cold, sterile, often-harsh setting of traditional mental health facilities, Alter provides carefully curated outdoor areas, elegant indoor decoration and other amenities to create a warm, welcoming home away from home. The facilities include stunning common areas where patients can relax and watch TV, with balconies affording peaceful views of the surrounding countryside. Patient accommodations feature excellent lighting, comfortable beds and clean, accessible bathrooms.

It’s all part of Alter’s design as a sanctuary for exploring, treating, and educating patients and their loved ones about their conditions. Each patient’s physical, psychological, social, and educational needs are meticulously assessed, and therapy is designed to treat the patient holistically – body and mind. Each treatment plan is personalized, reflecting Alter’s belief in the individuality of each person’s journey toward healing.

For more information on mental health treatment for yourself or a loved one, visit Alter Behavioral Health or call 866-647-2716.

Living With Borderline Personality Disorder

June 14, 2023/in Mental Illness/by Alter Behavioral Health

Alter Behavioral Health Can Treat BPD

Alter Behavioral Health is a safe, comfortable treatment center in Irvine, California, designed to help people living with borderline personality disorder. We have a team of skilled, experienced, and credentialed clinicians and therapists who work hard to provide effective treatment for BPD to each patient. We know that it can be stressful to live with untreated BPD, so our patients’ programs include personalized care that addresses each individual’s physical, psychological, social, and educational needs. You can come to us for treatment without fear of being judged or shamed because we only want to provide a compassionate and thorough holistic treatment for mental illness so you can live with a new, healthy outlook on life, with strong support every step of the way.

What Is Borderline Personality Disorder?

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a condition that makes it difficult to regulate emotions. It can cause a person to feel a lot of stress, act impulsively, and experience rapid mood swings. Unfortunately, it can lead to an increased risk of harming oneself. If you are living with borderline personality disorder, you may feel intense emotional pain and desperation, or other symptoms that may include:

8 Types of Mental Illnesses

June 13, 2023/in Mental Illness/by Alter Behavioral Health

Alter Behavioral Health Can Help

Each year, roughly 1 in 5 American adults experience one of the types of mental illnesses. Even so, the stigma regarding mental illness remains, which is unfortunate because today’s treatments can lead to largely successful outcomes. With treatment, people with mental illness can learn how to effectively manage their condition and improve their quality of life. In many cases, patients who receive treatment can even eliminate symptoms, essentially putting their disease into remission.

Alter Behavioral Health specializes in behavioral and mental health conditions. We treat each person with compassion and dignity, providing a modern understanding of mental illness and treating each patient with the expertise we’re known for. In our care, treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis. At that point, our clinicians can recommend the ideal treatment course with a plan tailored to each patient’s unique needs. We understand that experiencing a mental health disorder or crisis can feel overwhelming. Our clinicians can help you experience relief from your symptoms and develop strategies for successfully managing your condition.

If you are experiencing mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety, be sure to get in touch with Alter Behavioral Health. We specialize in mental health treatment. Let our clinicians help you manage your addiction by developing new coping strategies and learning how to prevent relapse. The following are the various types of mental illnesses that people experience.

Mood Disorders

mental illnesses types

Mood disorders are one category of mental illnesses that include many common conditions, including major depression, bipolar disorder, and substance-induced mood disorders. Medical researchers have not uncovered a clear-cut or definitive cause of mood disorders. Many researchers believe, though more study is required, that these disorders are the result of chemical imbalances. Also, some mood disorders seem to be inherited and run through families.

Today, clinicians can treat mood disorders in a variety of ways. Psychotherapy (talk therapy) like cognitive-behavioral therapy is a leading mood disorder treatment. Medications like antidepressants are also crucial for the treatment of mood disorders. Today’s mood disorder treatments and medications are highly effective. However, sometimes patients require more advanced support, such as hospitalization. At Alter Behavioral Health, clinicians evaluate each person’s condition as everyone is different and may require a slightly unique approach. It’s also not uncommon for clinicians to make changes in treatment plans as needed.

Anxiety Disorders

There are various types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety, phobias, and separation anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders are characterized by persistent worry and fear. While anxiety is a normal stress reaction, it can escalate and lead to considerable problems that are both mental and physical. People with anxiety disorders may experience symptoms such as:

Shortness of breath.
Trembling.
Nausea.
Fear of dying.
Catastrophizing.
Feeling dizzy.
Feeling faint.
Abdominal pain.
Hot flashes.
Rapid heart rate.
Feeling detached.
Pounding heart.

Today, clinicians treat anxiety with psychotherapy, anti-anxiety medications, and antidepressants. The medications help as they’re extremely effective, but talk therapy is also important. Therapy helps patients confront unhealthy thoughts and patterns that can underscore their anxiety, such as realizing that jumping to thoughts of worst-case scenarios is unhealthy and can trigger more anxious thinking. Clinicians help patients recognize and stop when they are doing that.

Eating Disorders

Eating disorders impact both physical and mental health. These are serious health conditions that can kill people if not treated. Common eating disorders include:

Anorexia nervosa.
Bulimia.
Binge-eating disorder.
Avoidant-restrictive food intake disorder.

Eating disorders are governed by an underlying sense of compulsion to not eat. Symptoms vary depending on the type of disease in question. About 9% of Americans will have some type of eating disorder in their lifetime, according to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders.

People who suffer from eating disorders tend to experience disturbing thoughts and emotions. The disorders can become increasingly serious; many people suffering from eating disorders may require hospitalization to address both psychological and physical problems.

Psychotic Disorders

Psychotic disorders involve abnormal patterns of thinking and abnormal perceptions. These are serious disorders that can also include delusions and hallucinations. People with these disorders tend to lose touch with reality. Some psychotic disorder warning signs include:

Withdrawal from family and friends.
Lack of emotional response.
Decrease in motivation.
Exhibiting unusual behavior.
Suspicion.
Hostility.
Strange ideas/beliefs.
Hallucinations.

Schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder are among the most common types of psychotic disorders. Clinicians will treat these disorders with medications, and hospitalization may be necessary as well.

Addiction Disorders

Substance use disorders are extremely common. More than 22 million people have an addiction to alcohol or drugs. Substance use disorder involves powerful physical, mental, and behavioral dependencies. Patients need to manage each aspect of addiction to achieve lasting recovery.

A person can become addicted to some substances with just a few uses. Substances like methamphetamine, heroin, and alcohol have very high relapse rates. With quality addiction treatment, patients can manage their addiction successfully. People can find inpatient and outpatient treatment programs and offerings like medical detox, medication-assisted treatment, and dual diagnosis treatment.

Although there isn’t a cure for addiction, it can be successfully managed. Many of the best treatment programs feature evidence-based treatments, holistic treatments, and alternative treatments that support lasting recovery.

Personality Disorders

Personality disorders involve unhealthy patterns of thinking and behaving. These patterns often make it difficult for people to manage their emotions and thoughts. They often struggle to maintain relationships and may suffer from symptoms such as:

The unsubstantiated belief that someone is trying to harm them.
Hesitancy to confide in other people.
Hostile reactions to perceived slights.
Struggling to pick up social cues.
Flat emotions.
Disregard for the feelings of others.
The tendency to hold a grudge.
Aggressive or violent behavior.
Suspicion and distrust.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common disorder that causes chronic and sometimes uncontrollable thoughts or obsessions. This condition involves unwanted feelings and thoughts that drive a person to perform some type of compulsion. It might be repeatedly checking that doors are locked or that all stove dials are turned off, for example. Other compulsive behaviors common with this disorder include:

Repeated hand washing.
Number rituals (with counting).
Arranging things in a specific way.

Clinicians treat OCD with interventions like cognitive-behavioral therapy and medications. Sometimes a person can benefit from neurosurgical treatment.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder can occur when a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event such as war or abuse. People with this condition often experience nightmares, flashbacks of the trauma, insomnia, irritability, and anxiety. Clinicians will offer therapies to reduce symptoms and also to help people resolve and cope with past trauma or traumatic events.

Alter Behavioral Health Is Ready to Help Treat Most Types of Mental Illnesses

Whether you are experiencing symptoms of one of the types of mental illnesses for the first time or are struggling to manage a long-term condition, Alter Behavioral Health can help. We rely on evidence-based therapies and medications to treat the gamut of mental illnesses. From symptom relief to long-term management strategies, our treatments help patients move toward effective condition management to achieve improved wellness and quality of life. If you are struggling with a mental health condition, call Alter Behavioral Health at 866-647-2716 to schedule a consultation right away.

Are Prescription Medications Needed to Heal From a Mental Health Disorder?

June 9, 2023/in Mental Illness/by Alter Health

Individuals that are seeking healing from a mental health disorder can benefit from learning about the wide range of therapeutic approaches available for recovery. To some, the thought of using prescription medication for symptom management is intimidating. However, medication can be profoundly effective, depending on the type and severity of a person’s disorder. While pharmacotherapy is not the only route available for the treatment of a mental health disorder, it is necessary to understand its place and importance in mental health treatment.

Understanding Prescription Medications

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) explains that medications often play a key role in the treatment of mental health disorders. This is because mental illnesses often occur from chemical imbalances in the brain. According to a publication by the National Institutes of Health (NIH):

Thus, prescription medications work to balance and regulate these internal imbalances. As a result, they help to reduce the severity and presence of mental health symptoms.

Of course, every type of prescription medication does this in a different way. There are different categories of medication that are used to treat specific mental health disorders. For example, as stimulant medications work to improve alertness and focus, they are often prescribed for individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

The main categories of mental health medications include:

Antidepressants
Anti-anxiety medications
Stimulants
Antipsychotics
Mood stabilizers

Common Concerns of Prescription Medications

Within each aforementioned category, there are several different types of medications that an individual may be prescribed for a mental health disorder. As NIMH explains, “Medications can affect people in different ways, and it may take several tries to find the medication that is most effective with the fewest side effects.” In addition to understanding potential side effects, it is necessary to address other common concerns of prescription medications.

The Potential of Becoming Addicted

For instance, using any substance can serve as a risk factor for developing substance use disorder (SUD) and addiction; this is no different for prescription medications. Although most mental health medications have a low to extremely low addictive potential, prescription drug use can still fuel curiosity and urges for experimentation with other drugs. To limit any potential for prescription drug misuse or abuse, individuals must take their medication exactly as prescribed by a doctor.

Duration of Medication Use

Another concern many individuals have about prescription medications is how long they will take their medication. While this varies from person to person, it is important to recognize that most prescription medications are used on a short-term basis. Yes, there are some diagnoses, such as schizophrenia, that may require long-term or lifelong medication use. However, this is often not the case for other mental health disorders. Individuals can work with their care team to dispel additional concerns as well as establish a treatment plan that incorporates a shorter duration of medication use.

Meanwhile, it may also help to know that medication is most effective when used in tandem with traditional therapeutic approaches, such as psychotherapy. Often, an individual will be prescribed medications to reduce their mental health symptoms so they can effectively participate in therapeutic sessions. Once an individual begins to reap the benefits of therapy, they can work with their therapist to safely wean off their medication.

It is always encouraged to talk through concerns and fears about treatment, including prescription medication, with a mental health professional. Additionally, to avoid any potential consequences of prescription medication, it is necessary to work closely with a mental health professional.

Alternatives to Prescription Medications

In some cases, prescription medication may be necessary for an individual in the early stages of treatment. However, there are plenty of additional treatment options that individuals can use if they choose not to utilize prescription medication. At Alter Behavioral Health, we strongly rely on the opinions and values of our clients when crafting a treatment plan.

Psychotherapy is a broad example of an effective therapeutic modality. Within the realm of psychotherapy, a therapist can utilize a variety of approaches with a client, working to address their unique needs. Some psychotherapeutic modalities and approaches we utilize at Alter Behavioral Health include:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
Family therapy
Group therapy
Equine therapy

In addition, we also are passionate about incorporating holistic healing modalities into treatment. In therapy, we can help individuals develop emotional regulation skills using techniques such as:

Mindfulness exercises
Mediation
Journaling
Artistic expression

These examples only scratch the surface of the modalities we offer at our facility. Still, they offer a valuable framework for individuals to recognize that there is more to mental health treatment than solely prescription medication.

If you or a loved one is struggling with a mental health disorder, it is important for you to learn about the different routes available for treatment and recovery. While prescription medications are often necessary to help regulate brain imbalances caused by mental illness, there are other treatment options available. At Alter Behavioral Health, we are dedicated to honoring the unique needs of our clients in treatment. We offer a wide range of therapeutic modalities and approaches to ensure that we can secure lasting healing and symptom management for each person. If you have concerns about prescription medication, we can address them and work through them together. To learn more, give us a call at (866) 691-4386.