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Psychiatric Treatments and Support

The successful treatment of any mental illness requires several factors: good mental healthcare, support from family, friends and the community, pharmaceutical support and psychiatric methods and treatments.

It is important for the individual who suffers from a mental illness to receive proper medical care that includes a comprehensive physical and mental evaluation from a qualified medical doctor, preferably a psychiatrist trained in the diagnostic methods of modern psychiatry. The individual will need to keep regular appointments with the psychiatrist so that an assessment can be made during treatment as to how therapy and any medications the individual is taking are working. Adjustments must often be made to the dosage as well as to the type of medication being taken. Often time's side effects can occur that need to be monitored and adjustments to the medication made accordingly. The level of stress in the individual's life can also have an impact on the necessary dosage and the psychiatrist can monitor and make the necessary changes.

Support is crucial for positive encouragement and a good outcome for the individual with the mental illness. Family members, friends and those who work with the individual can be educated regarding the particular mental illness so that with understanding they can be supportive of what the individual is experiencing. Relationships usually suffer when they involve an individual with a mental illness. When all involved understand the illness and in particular have gained an understanding of what the individual is capable of doing and what is not in his/her capabilities then expectations are more realistic and relationships can adjust to the needs of all involved.

Medications are sometimes prescribed for short-term or long-term therapy. Medications usually need to be adjusted based on any side effects that are experienced or when the level of stress changes. Medications can help lessen the mood swings, and give the individual the ability to better handle situations. Medications are not a cure, they can allieviate certain symptoms and they can benefit the recovery process.

Common medications prescribed for various mental illnesses are:

Adderall, BuSpar, Celexa, Clozaril, Cymbalta, Effexor XR, Haldol, Klonopin, Lamictal, Lithium, Paxil, Prozac, Remeron, Risperdal, Ritalin, Tergretol, Topamax, and Wellbutrin, just to name a few.

There are various psychosocial Interventions practiced by psychiatrist that include: assertive community treatment, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dual diagnosis and integrated treatment of mental illness and substance abuse disorders, family education and support services, illness self-management and supported employment programs. Recovery includes treatment and support, consumer support, legal support, fighting against ignorance and the stigma associated with mental illness, mental illness research and initiating policy updates that support those who have mental illnesses.

Psychiatric treatments and support must come from mental healthcare individuals, family, friends, employment community, and the individuals who suffer from mental illnesses and from society as a whole. Everyone must embark on a positive drive to understand and support the treatments and uplifting support that encourages and heals those with mental illnesses.