Mental Health 101
Treatment
Most mental health problems can be treated so that people can recover and maintain day-to-day functioning. Treatment comes in many forms, including individual and group therapy, counselling, psychosocial intervention and medication (Institute of Health Economics, 2014).
Community supports, such as outreach services, income services (e.g., social assistance) and vocational and housing-related supports, are available. There are also peer support and self-help organizations. In Ontario, treatment and supports for mental health problems are provided across many settings, including by community-based health services, family physicians, psychiatrists, hospitals, outpatient programs, clinics and private practitioners (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2015b).
In addition, informal or self-administered treatments are very important. It can be helpful for people to reflect on their thought patterns, emotions, behaviours and body reactions to help them manage and protect their mental health (CMHA BC & AnxietyBC, 2016). Being aware of negative emotions, repeating positive messages, noticing body reactions, countering stress with a healthy diet, relaxing, making art, exercising, listening to music, sleeping, spending time outside and practicing mindfulness are ways that people can manage their mental health. The most helpful methods are different for everybody. Over time, each person will learn what works best for them.
Mental Health 101 © , CAMH.