Mental Health
Involuntary Commitment
Involuntary commitment refers to an individual undergoing court-ordered treatment because of severe mental health symptoms that they exhibit. This is often issued if an individual has become a threat to themselves or to others. Involuntary commitment can be used to assess and treat an individual who is a safety concern or can no longer make good judgement. Although many would say that involuntary commitment is a direct violation of a person's civil rights, it is used to protect and ensure the safety of the individual and others.
Read MorePsychiatric Medications
Psychiatric medications are a group of psychoactive drugs that have been approved to treat mental health issues. These medications work by changing the chemical structure of the brain. Medications are a proven and effective way of helping to treat those who are suffering from mental health disorders. The use of medication as a form of treatment has increased greatly. Medication is often used in combination with therapy and counseling. Psychiatric medications are most commonly prescribed by a physician who specializes in mental health issues, who can monitor the effectiveness and make any necessary changes to the treatment plan.
Read MorePsychosurgery
Psychosurgery (also known as a lobotomy) was first used in the 1930s. It was initially used to help provide relief for those suffering from depression or obsessive compulsive disorder. Psychosurgery is very rarely used in modern medicine because it has a high rate of ineffectiveness, and can cause adverse health effects and even death. More effective treatment options are employed to help treat mental health issues.
Read MorePsychotherapy
Psychotherapy is a form of treatment used for those suffering from psychological and mental issues. This therapy addresses different aspects which may have triggered the issues including influences, causes and possible treatments. Psychotherapy has proven to be quite effective if treatment is maintained. Unfortunately due to the lack of instant relief many patients withdraw from treatment early. Psychotherapy is often used in conjunction with medication.
Read MoreRecovery Model
The recovery model is a type of approach used to treat people suffering from mental illness. It is used to help get people out of institutions and treatment centers. This allows individuals to be treated for mental illness within the community. There are a few basic elements involved in the recovery model including finding meaning, developing coping strategies, empowerment and inclusion, developing and maintaining supportive relationships, discovery of one's self, developing a secure base and finding hope. Individuals who have been treated using the recovery model have had varying results, with some faring well in the community whereas other end up homeless.
Read MoreShock Therapy
Shock therapy (also known as Electro Convulsive Therapy) is used to help treat psychiatric disorders including Bipolar disorder. When shock therapy is administered the patient will lose consciousness and will experience convulsions for approximately fifteen minutes. The actual way that shock therapy works is somewhat of a mystery. Some people feel as though it is changing the chemicals within the brain and others feel as though it gives the brain a ‘boost'. The effectiveness of shock therapy has often come under criticism, making it not as widely used as a treatment option.
Read More