Mental illnesses are any condition that affects a person’s thinking, feelings, or behavior. Studies have shown that approximately 1 in every 5 American adults experiences mental illness each year and 1 in 25 American adults suffer enough for their mental illness to significantly interfere with their daily life. It is clear to see that mental illness is a widespread and serious problem, but we can take hope in knowing that more and more treatment options are becoming available for people who suffer from mental illness.
Recovery is possible, with the right care. At AMFM Treatment Center, we have experience treating a diverse range of mental illnesses. Here is a list of some of the severe mental health disorders that we proudly specialize in treating.
Major Depressive Disorder
More than 3 million people in the U.S. suffer from this disorder. Characterized by persistent feelings of sadness or emotional numbness, major depressive disorder can lead to sleep problems, changes in appetite, decreased energy levels, difficulty concentrating, and lowered self-esteem. It can be overcome by using medications, therapy, and other treatment methods.
Schizophrenia
It is estimated that more than 250,000 people in the U.S. have been diagnosed with Schizophrenia. The most notable symptoms of schizophrenia include disorganized speech or behavior, hallucinations, feeling disconnected from one’s self or life, and catatonic behavior. While there is no cure for schizophrenia, it can be treated using medications, therapy, and other methods.
Bipolar Disorder
Also referred to as manic depression, bipolar disorder affects more than 3 million American adults. A person can be diagnosed with bipolar disorder if they experience mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs that last for extended periods of time. Bipolar disorder cannot be cured, but medications and therapy can help those who suffer from it cope with their disorder in more healthy ways.
PTSD and Trauma
PTSD is estimated to affect over 3 million Americans each year. It can be diagnosed after a person who experienced or witnessed a traumatic event has difficulties coping with what happened. For months or years after the event, triggers can bring back vivid memories of what happened that cause the person to experience intense emotional and physical reactions. Psychotherapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy have been shown to help victims heal from PTSD.
Anxiety Disorders
An estimated 4 million people in the U.S. suffer from anxiety disorders. There is a wide range of anxiety disorders, all of which are accompanied by feelings of worry, anxiety or intense fear that interfere with a person’s daily life. It can be overcome with the help of mental health professionals who provide therapy and might prescribe medications to the person suffering.