The most common forms of mental health treatment include medications, psychotherapy, case management, hospitalization, support groups, and complementary alternative medicine. A combination of medication and psychotherapy has been shown to produce the best treatment outcomes for many mental health disorders.

The main indication for the need to seek professional help is experiencing symptoms of mental health disorders, for example, prolonged feelings of sadness, loss of interest in social activities, excessive worrying and anxiety, unexplained weight changes, poor appetite, sleep disturbances, auditory or visual hallucinations, social withdrawal, suicidal or self-harming thoughts, fatigue without physical health problems, and paranoia.

Most mental health disorders arise from imbalances between chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters), which interferes with how different parts of the brain communicate to influence mood, emotions, thought patterns, and behavior. Medications help with mental health disorders by restoring the balance of these chemicals, leading to normal mood, emotions, thought patterns, and behavior, which in turn alleviates the symptoms of mental health disorders.

The types of therapy available for mental health issues can be classified into two broad groups: pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. Pharmacotherapy entails the use of medications to treat mental health disorders by balancing the levels of important chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters) that affect normal mental functioning. Psychotherapy, on the other hand, involves talking with patients to identify and change troubling emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. The different types of psychotherapy available include behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy, interpersonal therapy, psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and supportive psychotherapy.

Some of the signs of mental health decline include feeling anxious and worried most of the time, especially if it interferes with normal functioning and is accompanied by symptoms such as sweating, trembling, palpitations, shortness of breath, and restlessness. Feeling sad and disinterested for at least a week or more could be a symptom of depression. Changes in sleep patterns, for example, insomnia or too much sleep could point to mental health decline. Emotional outbursts such as dramatic changes in mood, extreme distress, or anger could signal mental health decline. Fluctuating weight such as unexpected weight gain or weight loss could also signify mental health illnesses. Feelings of guilt or worthlessness and turning to alcohol or drugs as a means of coping with stress or life’s challenges are other indications of mental health decline.

There are several things that one can do to protect their mental health. First, take care of your physical health through healthy eating, regular physical exercise, and having regular health checkups. Physical activity not only improves physical functioning but also raises self-esteem and releases chemicals that boost mood and lead to better mental health. Connect with other people and establish good relationships with other people. Social connections help one to build a sense of belonging and self-worth, share positive experiences, and receive and give support to others. Learning new skills helps to develop a sense of purpose. Avoid alcohol, practice gratitude, set realistic goals, and learn how to handle stress. One should also acknowledge that getting help is not a sign of weakness but strength and seek help when needed.

Yes. There is a relationship between physical and mental health. Physical illnesses can lead to mental issues and vice versa. Having good physical health leads to peace of mind that ultimately prevents stress that may lead to mental illness. Poor mental health is a risk factor for the development of chronic physical illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatic arthritis, and psoriasis. Serious mental illness may interfere with the ability to take care of one’s physical needs, thereby increasing the risk of mental illness.

A support group refers to a gathering of people facing common issues who meet to share what's troubling them. Some of the benefits of attending support groups for mental illnesses include offering and receiving support, encouragement, and comfort through the sharing of experiences. Mental health-related support group help to fill the gap between medical treatment and the need for emotional support. The sharing of experiences within the group helps patients with mental illnesses to come up with specific ideas to deal with a difficult situation or life challenge. Support groups encourage accountability among members, which may enhance adherence to treatment recommendations. Talking and listening regularly to other people within the group also helps one put their own problems in perspective.