May is National Mental Health Awareness Month. It is an opportunity for us to spread awareness to individuals who do not understand mental health issues such as depression and anxiety and the impact they have on individuals and the family.
There is a perception in society that mental health disorders can be “overcome” or “magically treated quickly.” The reality is mental health issues like depression, bipolar, anxiety and schizophrenia can be lifelong illnesses and need to be treated by medications or other alternative or evasive treatments.
I don’t know how many times I have worked with individuals who have depression who have told me that they have family members who have told them to “just get over it” or “you just need to change your mindset.”
Mental illness such as major depression is more than just a mindset and is not an easy fix. Imbalances of chemicals in the brain can cause major depression or generalized anxiety such as panic attacks and social phobias. These disorders, like other illnesses in the body, require more than just a mindset change.
But there is hope. Studies show that most people with mental health problems see improvement with treatment. Much research and time has been spent in developing treatments to help people ease symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Common forms of treatment for mood disorders and anxiety are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, pharmacology (the use of medications), neurofeedback and other alternative methods. There are times when these treatments alone do not help alleviate their symptoms and they need additional support from psychiatrists for medication management. We will support you as you seek the best solution for your needs.
Just like any other illness, there are multiple possible treatments and it may take several practitioners to find the right type of treatment for you. People who do not want to depend on medicine may seek alternative or natural methods of treatment, such as neurofeedback.
Our practice mostly works with individuals who want to challenge their thought processes, coping skills and imbalanced brain wave activity to manage their anxiety, depression and ADHD.
There are various factors that can affect mood and behavior. It’s important to find a provider that looks at all different areas such as sleep, diet, water intake, chemical imbalances, brain wave imbalance, and organic problems in the brain and body.
If you or your child are not able to function normally, that is a good sign that you should seek out treatment. Your doctor is a great resource. We also offer a free consultation, in person or by phone. If you’re seeking treatment for a child, make sure to select a provider who specializes in children.
If you need help, please take the first step. You don’t have to suffer without treatment.
Additional Resources:
Mental health information: https://ntcutah.com/mental-health-links/
For people with mental health problems: https://www.mentalhealth.gov/talk/people-with-mental-health-problems/index.html
For parents and caregivers: https://www.mentalhealth.gov/talk/parents-caregivers/index.html