Mental Health Month
This Month is Mental Health Month. According to Mental Health America, the 4 common mental health issues are: Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Millions of Americans struggle with these illnesses every day. However, there is help available in the form of medications, therapy and support groups which are often combined for the best results. Read further for more information from Mental Health America about each of these illnesses:
Depression – 19 million Americans battle depression. Mental Health America describes some symptoms of depression as having “persistent sad, anxious or ‘empty’ mood; loss of pleasure and interest in activities once enjoyed, fatigue or loss of energy; feeling guilty, hopeless or worthless; and thoughts of suicide or death.” Depression is often treated with antidepressants and psychotherapy.
Anxiety – The most common mental illness in the U.S., 40 million people deal with anxiety. Mental Health America defines anxiety as “illnesses that cause people to feel frightened, distressed and uneasy for no apparent reason.” Anxiety is often treated with antidepressants, benzodiazepines and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Bipolar Disorder – Over 2 million Americans fight bipolar disorder, which appears in the teens or early twenties and has no cure, therefor must be kept under control for the rest of their life. Mental Health America calls bipolar disorder “an illness involving one or more episodes of serious mania and depression.” Bipolar disorder can be kept under control with medication and psychotherapy.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder – PTSD affects 8 million Americans. PTSD is diagnosed when feelings of fear, guilt, shame, distress, anger or helplessness last over a month after a traumatic experience, according to Mental Health America. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is treated with a combination of psychotherapy and medication.
Visit MentalHealthAmerica.net for more information about reducing stress, coping and finding support for any illness you may have. Stay happy and healthy this month and all year long!
Source: MentalHealthAmerica.net