Mental Health Treatment: More Than Self-Care

The term “self-care” is a popular concept now. Self-care means something a little different to everyone. It’s personal because it’s based on each person’s unique needs. Self-care and mental health treatment tie in together. But mental health treatment is so much more. This guide explains how to know when self-care may not be enough to feel better.

When self-care isn’t enough

Self-care is important. But it doesn’t cover all the ways to manage your mental health. Here are some times when you may need to consider mental health treatment.

• When you have trouble doing basic daily activities
• When sleep and eating patterns change for the worse
• When you feel overwhelmed, or previous symptoms return
• When you try self-care methods, and they don’t help much  
• When you fall into unhealthy habits or patterns

For some people, self-care activities are more stressful than helpful. You may worry if you’re doing it correctly. Or you might believe that it’s just one more thing that won’t make a difference. 

In this case, mental health treatment may be helpful. With the help of a counselor, you can understand the root of your concern. Then you can create a self-care plan that supports you. Self-care is unique to you and your needs. It doesn’t need to look like anyone’s plan. 

Evidence-based treatments for mental health

Mental health treatment centers use therapy based on research. Research studies look at what works best for certain conditions. Counselors use specific guidelines made from this information. 

These guidelines are based on what is known to help many people. These methods have been studied and repeated to be sure the process is clear. Counselors can use these models and guidelines to help you with your symptoms. If you’ve been through trauma, treatment can help you understand your experiences. 

In treatment, you can learn more about your triggers and patterns. You’ll also learn healthy coping skills. These conversations are private, so you can open up about deeper issues. Talking with a friend or writing in your journal are helpful self-care methods. But they may not be enough to help you with something like depression or PTSD.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) 

CBT is a type of treatment for anxiety and depression. It helps with your thoughts, behaviors and emotions. You learn about how all three work together with your symptoms.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) 

EMDR is another trauma therapy. A therapist uses EMDR to help your brain reprocess your experiences. You focus briefly on your trauma while moving your eyes rapidly from side to side. 

Medication 

Sometimes you may need medication to help manage your symptoms, and that’s OK. Medication can make a big difference. It’s especially helpful when at the beginning of treatment. Medication can help you go from feeling a little better and feeling like you can function each day. 

Many safe and effective medications are available to treat mental health conditions. You may need to try more than one medication to find one that works for you. It can take a little time, so don’t give up. Your medical provider can answer any questions you may have.

Caring for Your Mental Health

Self-care is enough to help you get back on your feet when life feels challenging. Self-care isn’t the same as treatment for mental health. Sometimes you need more guidance and support, and that’s OK.  

Your mental health matters. We can support you as you work through your mental health challenges. And we can teach you the tools you need to manage it. Call us today at 888.502.6038 to find out more about our personalized treatment options. Learn how we can create the right plan to suit your needs.