Treating Mental Disorders Each year more than 50

Treating Mental Disorders

�Each year, more than 50 million Americans experience the symptoms of a mental disorder, however the majority of these people don’t seek help!!

Psychiatrist �A physician who can diagnose & treat mental disorders �Has gone to medical school �Will do medical exam to rule out any physical causes �Can prescribe medications

Clinical Psychologist �Trained to recognize & treat behavior that is not normal �Has a doctoral degree & at least 2 years practicum experience

Social Worker �Listens to & advises people �Helps families adjust to an illness �Helps people find community resources

Counselors �Focus on specific problems/ work with specific groups of people �School counselors �Drug counselors

Types of Treatment: �Psychotherapy : person talks to therapist; talks help people understand & over come their mental disorders �Drug therapy : prescription medication is used to help patients function normally �Hospitalization : when people are in danger of hurting themselves or others

Interesting Mental Health Professions… �Recreational therapist: Uses activities as therapy, like art, dance, music or sports; goals are to reduce anxiety, build confidence & develop social skills �Psychiatric aide: Helps people with daily chores like getting dressed, eating, & personal grooming �Sports psychologist: Works with athletes to improve their performance; teach athletes to relax & cope with the stresses of competition