May is nationally recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to recognize the importance of mental health and promote healthcare that improves mental well-being. We want to remind patients that mental health is just as significant as physical health, and shed light on the various symptoms and treatments that come with it.
At St. George Medical Clinic, we believe that raising awareness and education about mental health issues is crucial for the well-being of our patients. Read on to learn about the signs, symptoms, and treatments of common mental health issues, and how you can properly care for yourself and/or loved ones who are struggling.
There are numerous mental health disorders that members of our community face, including:
- Anxiety
- Bi-Polar Disorder
- Depression
- Personality Disorders
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Schizophrenia
- And more
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 1 in 5 American adults are living with mental illness.
Signs and Symptoms
Mental health issues can lead to a wide range of signs and symptoms. Some of the common signs and symptoms of mental illness range from changes in sleep or appetite, mood swings, social withdrawal, difficulty concentrating, heightened sensitivity, anxiousness, substance use, prolonged depression, delusions, suicidal ideations, fatigue, and anger issues.
The Causes
So what causes mental illness and where does it originate? There is not a singular cause of mental health issues, as numerous factors can contribute, such as:
- Adverse Childhood Experiences/Trauma (Ex: sexual assault, history of abuse)
- Diagnosis of Chronic Medical Condition(s) (Ex: Cancer, Dementia, Crohn’s Disease)
- Environment
- Genetics (Ex: biological chemical imbalances)
- Substance Abuse
Treatment and Support
There are several treatment and support options available for those struggling with mental health issues, the most common being medication and therapy. Medication (such as antidepressants and antipsychotics) aids in relieving symptoms and improvement of overall mental health, while therapy (such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy) allows patients to gain an understanding of their symptoms and skills to manage and cope with it.
You can support your loved ones who are struggling by listening carefully to them, gently expressing your concern and support, connecting them with resources, monitoring their behavior for changes, being mindful of their triggers, checking-in on their recovery, and treating them with respect and patience.
St. George Medical Clinic recognizes the significance of mental health, and we aim to provide our patients with the best care. If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health issues, we encourage you to reach out to our behavioral health team. Our staff of quality, caring healthcare professionals are here to support you and provide the necessary resources you need to improve your mental health and well-being. Remember, you are never alone.
To schedule your appointment, or for more information about our services, call 304.478.3339, or email us at info@stgeorgeclinic.org.