In the last decade, there has been growing awareness and advocacy about mental health issues, and this has allowed many people to come forth with their challenges. A survey conducted by the NHS in 2023 found that one in five children and young adults suffered from probable mental health disorders. The statistics get even more alarming for adults, where one out of four people deal with mental health issues.
Today, there are multiple interventions and treatment methods available to address different mental health issues, ranging from eating disorders to depression, anxiety or stress. Modern science has found that therapeutic interventions often offer a better resolution for psychological disorders than medication or institutionalisation.
Let’s look at some common therapy interventions for mental health ailments.
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When to Seek Treatment and Interventions?
Mental health doesn’t conform to a set definition, and different people experience different symptoms and triggers, which can set off a psychological episode. Here are some common signs and symptoms that you should be aware of before seeking professional help:
- Constant anxiety
- Change in behaviour and mood swings
- Social withdrawal
- Change in sleep pattern or insomnia
- Loss of appetite or overeating
- Substance abuse
- Constantly living in fear or guilt
- Change in sex drive
- Feeling fatigued or weak
- Delusions or hallucinations
If you notice one or more of these signs in yourself or a loved one, immediately consult a professional.
Understanding Common Mental Health Issues
The most common mental health disorders among adults are:
- Anxiety disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Stress
- Depression
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Eating Disorder
Some of the common mental health illnesses among children and adolescents include:
- Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Behavioural Problems
Popular Therapeutic Interventions for Mental Health Issues
The fear of being judged is one of the most isolating aspects of mental illness. Therapeutic interventions aim to offer safety, validation, and support to address mental health ailments. It helps to effectively address the patient’s issue without resorting to more drastic treatment methods.
1. Hypnotherapy
When it comes to clinical hypnotherapy in London, a professional hypnotherapist will use certain visualisation and breathing techniques to address the subconscious mind and help you overcome negative belief patterns. Our subconscious often holds the key to psychological issues, and by altering or treating the root cause, a hypnotherapist empowers patients to live a more enriching life. Hypnotherapy can be beneficial for people dealing with PTSD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, eating disorders and more.
2. Counselling
Counselling or talking therapy is beneficial for both adults and children suffering from mental distress. For instance, children exhibiting signs of mental distress like unexplained crying or bedwetting can benefit from specialised counselling.
Professional child therapists in Chichester, London and Essex often approach these issues by helping children understand and process their emotions and triggers. They offer a safe space to let children explore their feelings and teach them different coping strategies.
Adults too can benefit from counselling. In a typical counselling session, a therapist can help you understand the root cause of your issues while helping you to set goals and overcome inhibitions and insecurities.
3. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or CBT offers effective solutions in a shorter period. In a CBT session, the therapist will identify the connection between the stressor, your feelings and emotions, and the behavioural outcome. They will work with you to instil better coping mechanisms and help you break away from negative thoughts and patterns. CBT can be especially effective for those dealing with PTSD, OCD, depression, eating disorders, substance abuse and sleep disorders.
4. Art Therapy
This is a relatively new therapeutic intervention that is used to treat a variety of mental disorders. Art therapy includes the expression of emotions and feelings through various creative forms like painting, music or dancing. This form of therapy can prove to be highly beneficial in treating PTSD among children.
Art therapy has also proven to be helpful with symptoms of autism spectrum disorder and with people suffering from depression due to terminal illnesses like cancer. Art therapy can help reduce mental distress, improve self-confidence and emotional intelligence, and channel positive thoughts. It is especially beneficial for people dealing with depression, anxiety, stress and insomnia.
5. Interpersonal Therapy
Be it with parents, spouses, or friends, strained relationships may bring on a range of issues like eating disorders, depression, or stress. When it comes to interpersonal therapy, the therapist acts as a mediator and helps identify and address issues within your relationships. These sessions allow for emotional expression in a safe and non-confrontational space.
6. Couples Therapy
This is for couples whose relationship has taken a turn for the worse and who might be headed for divorce and separation. The therapist will talk to the couple together and individually to understand the grievances and issues and try to address them more constructively and positively. Those who are experiencing depression, stress, or anxiety as a result of relationship problems may benefit from couples therapy
7. Yoga and Meditation
Yoga and meditation have become increasingly popular as alternative therapy options. Yoga and meditation can help children with ADHD focus and concentrate better while also helping them stay calm.
Yoga combines physical movement with meditation and breathing techniques, which helps to reduce the stress hormone cortisol while increasing the production of endorphins.
Yoga promotes relaxation and a sense of balance that can help reduce the negative effects of stress and anxiety. People of any age can practice yoga and reap its numerous benefits.
Wrapping Up
Mental health disorders are becoming increasingly common among both children and adults due to our fast-paced lifestyle and extreme competitiveness. Relationship dynamics, financial stress and chronic illness can also cause mental issues such as stress.
These therapeutic interventions empower individuals to better deal with stressors and negative emotions. This can allow you to lead a more wholesome and happy life and foster stronger relationship bonds with your spouse, children, family and friends.
