Mental health is a complex subject, due in no small part to a lack of information on the matter.
Social stigma and conflicting messages are just a few of the barriers that stand between a mentally ill individual and the resources they need to live a high quality of life. The journey of self discovery isn’t as straightforward as it should be, but it can be a little easier with the aid of professionals who are familiar with your symptoms. From substance abuse treatment to trauma and victimization, the struggles you’re facing are far from your only reality. The first step is just admitting you could use a little bit of help.
The list below is far from comprehensive, but perhaps it can give you a better idea as to what you’re up against and how it can be approached.
Did You Know?
The greatest weapon of mental illness and trauma is silence. Speaking truth to the little and massive things we take for granted is a great way to add power to your life. Studies have shown our mind wanders up to 30% of the time during normal, everyday activities. Substance use remains one of the most common issues among American adults today, with alcohol and painkillers on top of the list, and the mainstream ‘definition’ of addiction is often inaccurate. Mental health services are starting to become more widespread as knowledge of symptoms and the needs of the public grow better known.
Depression Rates
You might be wondering whether or not you struggle with depression. This disease is both subtle and disorienting, taking away years of your life in minor and major ways. The more well-known symptoms include listlessness, despondency, hopelessness, fatigue, and suicidal tendencies. Being irritable, easily distracted, and having low self-esteem can also be signs you’re struggling with this disorder. Depression remains one of the most common forms of mental illness in the country. It can manifest as bipolar depression, seasonal depression, and chronic depression.
Anxiety Disorders
It might not be depression that’s affecting your life, but an anxiety disorder. It could even be both. Anxiety is best known for causing an individual to lose time excessively doubting, worrying, and stressing over the future. Physical symptoms include heart palpitations, sweaty palms, headaches, jaw clenching, and difficulty sleeping. A recent study found one out of seven American children between the ages of two and eight have a diagnosed mental or behavioral disorder.
Problems In Relationships
Mental health services can also include resolving reoccurring patterns in relationships. If you find yourself distrusting your spouse or constantly being pulled into arguments, seeking out couples counseling could be the factor in retaining your marriage. Today the current American divorce rate hovers at 50%, with several factors considered responsible for this uptick in separation. Infidelity, financial stress, mental illness, substance abuse, and simple incompatibility can be addressed and resolved with the aid of the therapy process.
Substance Abuse
Last, but not least, you can consider reaching out to mental health services if you suspect you’re addicted to a substance. Contrary to popular belief, alcoholism and addiction in general is now classified as a mental illness. This is due to dependency changing the way the brain’s chemistry is wired and, in turn, affecting an individual’s day-to-day habits. Back in 2002 nearly 15% of Americans over the age of 12 had used an illicit drug or abused a form of medication over the past month. This number has since seen an increase of nearly five million by 2012.
Mental health services are available to help. Take the first step and ask for a consultation this month to put your life in perspective.