4.1 Hospitalisation
It is relatively unusual to be hospitalised for mental illness.
Where possible, medical professionals prefer to treat patients in community settings, where they can be supported by family, friends, peers and mobile support staff such as community psychiatric nurses. However, if someone poses a threat to themselves or others, or cannot function in day-to-day life, it may be necessary to stabilise them in hospital. In exceptional circumstances, they can be kept there against their will. This is known as “sectioning”.
4.2 Medication
Medication is often prescribed for the treatment of moderate to severe mental illness.
The most common types are:
- Antidepressants (given to reduce feelings of depression), antipsychotics (which are given to those with hallucinations and delusions)
- Mood stabilisers (given to those who experience major fluctuations in mood, such as patients with bipolar disorder)
There is a degree of controversy surrounding these medications. For instance, scientists do not actually know precisely how some of them work and some researchers believe that they have no discernible mechanism of action beyond a placebo effect. Furthermore, they often come with side effects such as drowsiness, weight gain, a dry mouth and reduced libido.
4.3 Talk based therapy
Talk-based therapy is another common treatment option. In therapy, the patient talks to a specially trained mental health professional about their problems. The parties then work together to devise solutions.
There are many different approaches to therapy. Art, movement and drama-based therapies offer patients other ways to express their thoughts and emotions beyond talking. Therapy can be given to individuals, families and couples. Sometimes therapy is delivered to a group of patients who are facing similar struggles.
A patient will usually see their therapist once a week, for around 50 minutes per session. They may be given “homework” to do in between, such as keeping a diary of their thoughts and behaviours. If a patient is staying in hospital or receiving intensive outpatient care, they may undertake more frequent therapy.
One of the most important factors that determines the success of a course of therapy is the rapport between therapist and client. This is known as the “therapeutic alliance”. If a patient senses that their therapist is not truly interested in helping them recover, they are unlikely to develop a healthy relationship based on trust and mutual understanding.
4.4 Other treatments
Other treatment options for mental illness include:
- Regular exercise
- Dietary changes
- Self-help resources such as books/online communities
Dietary changes can help regulate mood. For example, maintaining steady blood sugar levels and eating a nutritious diet increases emotional stability. Self-help and online resources can provide a sense of support and empowerment and are good choices for those with mild to moderate symptoms.
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