There is a treatment gap between the United States and other Western countries regarding mental health care. The U.S. spending on mental health is only 2% of the national health budget, while the region spends 73.5% of that amount. The gap is widest among people suffering from depression, alcoholism, and schizophrenia. The United Nations estimates that a full six million people in the Region of the Americas are living with a mental illness, whereas only a third of these people are getting treatment for this ailment.
Despite its importance, mental health care is rarely provided for those who are in the greatest need. Many people suffer from depression or other emotional problems. The world’s most affluent nations have the highest rates of psychological disorders, but there is no universal, effective way to help those in need. There are different types of psychological treatments for depression, and the level of services varies greatly. The scientific term for mental health treatment is psychotherapy. The discipline includes several schools of thought, including gestalt therapy, psychoanalysis, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychedelic therapies. Some mental health professionals may use both DSM and ICD as a reference for diagnosis.
Although prevention is better than cure, there are many factors that must be taken into consideration before implementing any changes in treatment. For instance, it is important to recognize the signs of mental illness early. This will reduce the likelihood of developing a disorder later on. It is also important to seek a physician’s advice for early intervention, so that treatment can begin as early as possible. Pharmaceutical drugs can help treat mental illness. Some examples of these include lithium and antidepressants. But they can only be prescribed by a physician who has special training in psychiatry.
The prevention of mental disease is the best form of mental health care. If caught early, the likelihood of developing a mental disorder will be greatly reduced. This is also one of the most effective public health measures. But it will only work if a person consults a physician on a regular basis. A regular checkup with a physician will allow him or her to diagnose any concerns. If treatment does not solve the problem, pharmacotherapy can be used. In some cases, pharmaceutical drugs can be prescribed by a medical professional specializing in mental health.
In a public health perspective, prevention of mental illness is the best way to ensure that a person is mentally healthy. Research has shown that prevention of mental disorders can be achieved with education and the right treatment. Moreover, if it starts in childhood, early detection and intervention will reduce the risk of later disorder. It is also important to provide the right support for children. Those suffering from mental illnesses should consult a physician regularly to ensure they are getting the necessary treatment.