OhioHealth Medical Minute: Mental Health

We are always looking for ways to improve our physical health. But how much do we know, and how much are we paying attention to our mental health? 

Mental disorders remain one of the leading causes of disability and ill-health around the world, affecting one in five people globally. That’s more than the populations of New York and Florida combined.

Even more startling is the fact that almost two-thirds of people with a known mental disorder never seek help from a health professional. Why? Because of the stigma that surrounds mental health. Even those who do seek out treatment can sometimes withdraw from their treatment programs before completing the recommended course.

Today, treatment options for those struggling with mental illness include psychotherapy, which shows benefit in around 75% of people, and medications like antidepressants, stimulants and mood stabilizers. Often the best solution for patients is a combination of different treatment methods.

Remember that those who are struggling with mental illness should seek treatment as soon as possible. Mental health conditions don’t improve on their own and can be linked to other health issues if left untreated.

To learn more about mental health for kids, click here.

To learn more about mental health for adults, click here.