Mental health treatment for adults is as important as physical health for our quality of life, relationships, and overall well-being. However, mental illnesses can develop at any stage of life due to a combination of social, economic, and individual factors.
As a result of these factors, many adults around the world and in the U.S. experience mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder.
Since mental illness is so common (around one in five adults in the U.S. struggle with one), it’s important to know the most common mental illnesses, their symptoms, and the treatment options available. Let’s explore these topics to help you identify mental illness better and learn how to seek help.
Types of Mental Health Treatment for Adults
With how widespread mental illness is among adults, it can seem like there is no solution, but in reality, there are many therapy options for adults with mental illness. The following are some of the most common ones.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy or psychotherapy involves one-on-one sessions with a licensed therapist to address emotional difficulties and learn healthy coping strategies.
There are many types of individual therapy; some are effective at treating multiple mental illnesses, while others are designed for specific ones. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on altering negative thought patterns in general and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) enhances emotional regulation.
On the other hand, cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is effective for PTSD, and interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT) is a newer psychotherapy that treats bipolar disorder.
Each approach offers personalized care aimed at helping individuals understand and manage their mental health.
Group Therapy
Group therapy provides a supportive environment where individuals can connect with others facing similar challenges. Participants share their experiences, gaining insights and encouragement from the group while learning valuable coping strategies.
This type of therapy fosters a sense of community, reducing feelings of isolation and offering peer support. It is especially beneficial for conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.
Medication Management
Medication management involves working closely with a psychiatrist or healthcare provider to monitor and adjust prescriptions, ensuring they are effective and minimizing side effects.
Antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anti-anxiety drugs can alleviate symptoms, often as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that involves psychotherapy and other strategies.
That’s because combining medication with therapy often yields the best outcomes for long-term stability.
Inpatient and Outpatient Programs
Inpatient programs provide intensive, 24/7 care for individuals experiencing severe mental health crises. These residential treatments offer a structured environment where patients receive continuous support, medication management, access to psychotherapy, and more.
Inpatient is ideal for adults who require a very supportive environment due to the severity of their mental illness.
In contrast, outpatient programs allow individuals to receive therapy and medical care while maintaining their daily routines. Outpatient treatment is ideal for those who need flexibility while still addressing their mental health needs.
Holistic and Alternative Treatments
Holistic treatments focus on the mind-body connection, offering complementary approaches to traditional therapy. Mindfulness practices, meditation, acupuncture, yoga, and dietary changes can promote relaxation and emotional well-being. These therapies help reduce stress, improve focus, and boost mental health. They are often used alongside traditional medication and treatment models for better results.
Teletherapy
Teletherapy has gained popularity for its accessibility and convenience. This treatment allows individuals to engage in therapy sessions via video calls, making it easier for those with busy schedules, transportation challenges, or physical limitations to receive care.
Teletherapy offers a flexible, effective alternative to traditional in-person therapy, making mental health support more widely available.
Common Mental Health Challenges in Adults
According to the World Health Organization, around one in eight people experienced a mental illness in 2019 (970 million). In the U.S. specifically, adults have an even higher chance of experiencing mental illness than the global average: one in five adults have a mental illness (59 million), according to the NIH.
However, while there are many mental illnesses, most adults experience the most common ones, which have the potential to reduce their quality and enjoyment of life.
The following are the most common mental illnesses that adults experience.
- Anxiety Disorders (19%)
- Major Depressive Disorder (8.4%)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (3.6%)
- Bipolar Disorder (2.8%)
- Eating Disorders (1-2%)
- Borderline Personality Disorder (1.4%)
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (1.2%)
- Schizophrenia (0.25-0.64%)
How to Get Started with Mental Health Treatment
If you’re an adult facing mental health challenges, it can be hard to know where to start seeking help. When unsure what to do or who to contact, starting with a primary care physician is a good idea. A primary physician can refer you to a psychiatrist or to any other resource they consider necessary. It’s the first step toward your recovery journey.
Don’t forget to ask for support from your immediate network. Reach out to trusted family members and friends who can offer emotional and logistical assistance. They can help you research treatment options, encourage you during tough times, and offer a sense of connection.
Always remember that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Adults with a strong support system generally have better mental health outcomes.
Seek Mental Health Treatment for Adults
Adults in the U.S. are more likely to experience mental illness than the worldwide average, so it’s important to seek support and treatment as early as you can when you notice symptoms.
We encourage you to make an appointment with your primary healthcare provider and explore mental health treatment near you.
If you’re interested in seeking help, contact us online or at (888) 242-5716 to learn about our approaches to mental health treatment for adults and how they can help support your recovery.
Michaela Welk, LMHC
Bunny Berman
Tank
Richard E. LoSardo, MD
Christopher Payne
Bernard Benjamin
Tiffany Bellino