People afflicted with mental illnesses and their loved ones often lament that if only they had known about their illness sooner. They wish they knew what was happening and recognized the signs, and had come to the doctors sooner. More often than not, this conversation happens after something tragic has already happened, and generally, nothing much can be said at that point.
The challenges
Unfortunately, today’s society still stigmatizes receiving mental health treatment. Few people seek help until they have no choice; the consequences become significantly worse by that time. Many brilliant, highly productive individuals, too, need mental health treatment to deal with challenging circumstances and biological imbalances.
According to studies, half of the people who will experience mental health issues start to exhibit signs by age 14. The brain develops most rapidly between the period of conception and early adulthood. Despite this knowledge, we tend to let problems fester until they become life-threatening, failing our kids.
We have inexcusably high rates of suicide, school dropout, homelessness, and engagement in the juvenile justice system instead of making investments in early detection and intervention programs and granting access to suitable resources. The vast number of people who are hurting serves as a reminder of how frequently we wait too long to take action, even while we can work to offer mental health services and support and to encourage recovery for those in need.
Benefits of early mental disorder diagnosis and treatment
An early diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses in individuals can avoid or significantly lessen the impact of mental illness so that people can lead happy, fruitful lives in society. These long-term benefits of an early diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses in individuals can be summarized as follows.
- A milder course of therapy
- Less logistical repercussions
- Reduced and milder persistent symptoms
- A complete and longer recovery
- Better overall motivation and self-esteem
Let’s take a more in-depth look at how early detection and treatment of mental illnesses can be beneficial:
1. A milder course of treatment
People will need less intensive treatment if they seek mental health intervention sooner. Many wish their symptoms would disappear, but mental illnesses worsen with time. Early intervention enables people to acquire coping skills while they are still able to do so. Some people no longer require medicine as a result of this, while those who do need medication have their dosage and frequency reduced. Early detection and treatment stop people from using hazardous and lethal coping mechanisms, including substance abuse, self-harm, and suicide.
2. Less logistical repercussions
Many significant parts of people’s lives are impacted when they start to succumb to mental disease symptoms. Relationships suffer, and work or academic performance suffers. Loss of friendships, breakups, family conflicts, unemployment, and college dropout are all possible outcomes of this.
The documented diagnosis will be increasingly severe as the issue becomes more serious. It’s common for prospective employers to review mental health records; therefore, this could hurt one’s chances for advancement in the workplace.
When a serious mental health diagnosis is present in a patient’s medical records, many healthcare providers and insurance companies continue to raise the cost of therapy.
3. Reduced and milder persistent symptoms
In addition to the initial underlying mental health condition, the additional life challenges mentioned above cause symptoms of depression and anxiety. Recovery becomes harder and takes longer as a result. People eventually manage symptoms even if they could have been avoided with earlier care. Even for the most severe mental health psychosis symptoms, as the experts advise, prevention is key.
4. A complete recovery with little to no chance of a relapse
Relapse is one of the major risks associated with untreated mental health issues. Even after receiving early therapy and recovering, people are still more susceptible to relapsing due to the stress of a progressing mental illness. Getting assistance while the issue is still minor helps to keep trauma from developing.
People can more readily recognize early indications of recurrent mental health issues if they become aware of them early on. It also gives patients the tools they need to cope well with repeated symptoms, so they don’t get out of control.
5. Better overall motivation and self-esteem
Seeking early mental health intervention boosts general self-esteem and motivation once people get past society’s stigma. Developing a sense of pride for having looked for the appropriate resources at the appropriate time will be a part of the healing process.
People will be inspired to take on other problems in life they have been putting off after overcoming this one. People will be further encouraged to follow healthy lifestyles by the ensuing improvement in their mental and emotional health.
When and how to get help
Many young people who are exhibiting psychotic symptoms don’t know how to get assistance. Start by informing a trusted friend or family member that you are experiencing some unusual things you cannot explain. The level of other people’s involvement in your care is entirely up to you.
Remember that having family and friends by your side can be very helpful because psychosis can be a condition that can make the afflicted feel very isolated. Try to make an appointment with your primary care physician or a nearby medical facility. If communicating your experiences is challenging for you, you might wish to attend with a family member or friend. You can get more evaluations or support with the assistance of your doctor.
In conclusion
One of the most difficult obstacles is learning to admit when you need help. As they do not instantly have physical and social repercussions, issues about mental health are especially simple to disregard. These effects will, in fact, eventually manifest. If something seems amiss, be sure to seek help as soon as possible. Early intervention can greatly aid the long-term maintenance of your mental and emotional well-being.
Photo Credits
Woman covering her ears – Pexels
Woman writing on clipboard – Pexels
Guest Author Bio
Dr. Joann Mundin
Dr. Joann Mundin has been a board-certified psychiatrist in practice since 2003. She is a diplomate with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a fellow with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. She is currently associated with Savant Care, where she provides assessments and treatment for patients with severe mental illnesses.
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