Mental illness has been one of the largest healthcare issues that are enveloping the world and impacting the lives of millions of people around the globe. With such issues, the majority of practitioners have looked for alternative choices for the management of neuropsychiatric illnesses without medications. Such therapies help patients to control their symptoms with the mind, modify patterns of behavior, and improve coping mechanisms. These therapies are applied alone or in combination with psychopharmacologic medications. In this section, I outline the different treatment processes of curing mental diseases without medication.

Psychotherapeutic treatments

Psychotherapy is also known as one of the most well-liked therapy approaches for mental illness. The therapy applies various methods attempting to change the patient’s thoughts, actions, and emotional processes. The following is the explanation of some of the most important psychotherapy techniques:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

The most frequent and successful form of psychotherapy to treat most of the mental illnesses, including depression and anxiety, is cognitive behavior therapy. Cognitive behavior therapy is based on the fact that unhealthy acts and emotions are caused by negative and distorted thinking. The patient can recognize and overcome their negative self-defeating thoughts using CBT. The main objective of this therapy is to modify and substitute unhealthy thought patterns with realistic and positive thought patterns. Besides this, CBT also helps the patients achieve better coping mechanisms to handle tension and everyday issues.

• Psychoanalysis

Psychoanalysis is the oldest and conventional method of psychotherapy. Psychoanalysis investigates the unconscious mind of the patient and follows a school of thought that most of the psychological problems are formulated due to suppressed emotions and deal with the unconscious. In psychoanalysis, the patient, under the guidance of the therapist, analyzes dreams, lapses, and childhood recollections in an attempt to bring into existence the cause of their psychological problems. Although it is a time-consuming process, but it can give an individual a clear idea about his psychological problems and be able to control them.

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and commitment therapy is also one of the newer psychotherapies that allow one to accept painful feelings and proceed towards values and goals instead of running away from them. In acceptance and commitment, the patient learns to accept unwanted feelings and thoughts and live according to their own values. The exercise is of tremendous importance It is appropriate for those suffering from anxiety disorders, depression disorders, and stress disorders.

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy is yet another form of psychotherapy, which was initially developed to address borderline personality disorder patients, yet today it’s used as a treatment for various other disorders such as depression, eating disorders, and stress disorders. In DBT, the patient learns how to switch from one mutually opposite pole (change) to another (acceptance). It puts more emphasis on emotional management and enhancing people skills in order for the patients to stop being self-destructive and acquire some new coping strategies.

• Counseling

Psychological counseling is a procedure of providing emotional and practical assistance to patients who can be plagued by mental illness. It can be conducted one to one, family, or groups, and in assisting patients to handle day-to-day issues, stress, and menopause.

Mind- and Body-Based Therapies

Mind-body therapies are the treatments which deal with the mind-body relationship and try to optimize the mental health of the patient by optimizing this interaction. These treatments ask the patients to calm down their mind and have a positive influence on their physical as well as mental health through one or more mechanisms. Some of these methods are described below. I will explain them:

• Meditation and Mindfulness

Mindfulness and Meditation is a very effective and most used psychotherapeutic process of stress management, anxiety management, and depression management. During the process, the patient provides clean attention to the here and now moment and tries to watch their own feelings and thoughts without judgment. Meditation switches off unnecessary brain activity and provides some relief time to the patient from normal stresses and tensions. Regularity of meditation has been proven to normalize mood and enhance sense of calmness and happiness.

• Yoga

Yoga is a body and mind exercise masquerading as a series of stretching, breathing, and meditation exercises. This exercise fortifies the mind-body connection and is helpful in managing depression, anxiety, and stress. Besides improving body strength and flexibility, yoga allows a person to calm their mind by focusing on movement and breathing. Yoga was found to enhance sleep, reducing symptoms of depression, and general quality of life among patients.

• Deep breathing and relaxation

Relaxation and breathing exercises help the patient cope with stress and anxiety by controlling their breathing and monitoring their body’s physiological response. Due to these exercises, the patient is able to unwind the nervous system through slow breathing and deep relaxation and is able to experience a drop in blood pressure, heart rate, and tension.

• Biofeedback

Biofeedback is a treatment in which a patient is able to see feedback regarding the physiological reaction of his own body and uses it for enhancement. In this procedure, the patient is able to see feedback such as his heart rate, respiration, temperature of the body, and activity of the brain from some instrument, and gets trained in controlling these reactions. Biofeedback It is most effective in relieving muscle tension, anxiety, and migraine headache.

• Mental Imagery

Mental imagery is one application where the person tries to increase his calmness and relaxation mentally either by following a therapist or by focusing on mental imagery. This use helps a person reduce his tension and anxiety in the mind by imagining peaceful locations or joyful incidences. It is an use for reducing anxiety, pre-operative tension, and improving sleep. It is quite effective.

Sports and physical activity therapies

Physical exercise plays a significant role in improving mental well-being. Physical exercise is helpful to the mind and mental well-being and is capable of diminishing symptoms of mental illness such as depression and anxiety. Some of these interventions include:

• Aerobic Sports

Aerobes such as running, swimming, cycling, and walking are the most efficient exercises to improve mental well-being. Aerobes produce good mood hormones such as serotonin and endorphins that increase mood and relieve depression and anxiety.

• Resistance training

Resistance or strength training such as weight lifting and body weight exercise also have positive effects on the mind as well as strengthening muscle. Increased confidence and increased feelings of power and control over oneself result from such exercise. Resistance training also reduces cortisol levels in the body and is observed to improve mood as well as decreasing anxiety.

• Nature Walks

Nature walk will be the simplest and most effective stress relief and mood boost activity. Exposure to nature might have some beneficial effects to reduce depression and stress. They’ve mentioned that a short nature walk in parkland will alleviate tension, improve positive mood, and increase energy.

• Team sports

Participation in group sports activities such as soccer, volleyball, or basketball is not only healthy for the body, but also for social relationships and feelings of belonging. Being with others and communicating can turn around loneliness and depression. Team sport can increase an individual’s motivation level and support against stress and pressures of everyday life It can cope with better.

• The Effect of Exercise Hormones on Reducing Stress and Anxiety

Physical activity leads the brain to release chemical substances such as endorphins and serotonin that make a person happy and stress-free. Other than making one relaxed and euphoric, such hormones facilitate a person in controlling depression and anxiety better. Physical activity upholds such a role in the brain, and a person improves mentally and psychically.

Social and environmental therapies

Ecological and social therapies treat the human relationship with others and nature and have a central role in the improvement of mental health. I refer below to some of them most relevant:

• Social Protections

Social protections encompass receiving sympathy and support from others, i.e., friends, relatives, and colleagues. People with good social relationships are in the best position to deal with the stresses and pressures of life. People who have been helped by social support will be less likely to develop depression and anxiety. Social supports can be emotional, practical and counselling.

• Support Groups

Support groups have members who face similar struggles, such as a mental illness. Such organizations provide comfort by helping people realize they are not the only ones with such experiences and feelings. Support groups are a good place to share issues and gain self-esteem and support for dealing with them. During these meetings, individuals can learn from others and enjoy belonging to the group.

• Group therapies

Group therapies are a type of therapeutic treatment under the guidance of a trained psychotherapist where a group of people go through the therapy session together. Under this session, the people share their issues and discuss and resolve these issues through the guidance of the therapist and the group. This type of therapy gives an experience of empathy, sharing troubles, and learning from each other. They can improve social skills, communication, and reduce loneliness.

• Changes in the living environment

Enhancement of living space, for example, enhancing the home or work environment, can contribute to the enhancement of mental health. Exposure to natural light, plants, gentler colors, and a quiet and clean environment can reduce stress and enhance mood. Therapeutic environments also facilitate recovery by allowing the creation of a safety and comfort-oriented environment for patients.

Challenges and limitations of non-pharmacological treatments

Despite being amazingly effective non-pharmacologic therapies, they also have limitations and disadvantages. These are provided as follows:

• Requires long-term time and effort

Non-pharmacologic therapies are labor-intensive and time-consuming. Most of them, such as psychotherapy or mind-body therapy, take months or years before actual progress starts showing up, while others use alternatives that are quicker, such as medication.

• Limitation of effectiveness in severe cases

In some of the more severe mental illnesses like schizophrenia or extreme depression, drug-free treatment alone may prove inadequate. In such cases, the treatments must be supplemented with psychiatric drugs if they are to be effective. For example, patients with psychoses may require antipsychotics while psychotherapy alone may prove inadequate for them.

• The need for access to professional professionals

These are largely carried out with the assistance of professional professionals. For example, psychotherapy must be performed by a skilled psychotherapist or biofeedback methods involve costly equipment as well as skilled therapists. Such professionals are not everywhere and in certain cases are costly.

• Lack of public awareness and social acceptance

In all societies, such non-medical interventions are also in short supply, and the people may lack trust in them or even may believe that they are not as effective as medicine. There are also individuals who would not even employ such types of interventions due to cultural beliefs or for fear of people judging them. A patient would thus be treated poorly in these instances.

• Individual effectiveness and personalization of treatments

One of the largest non-pharmacological therapy issues is that they can’t do better for everyone. That is, every individual responds differently to treatments, and what can do on one individual can’t do on another individual. To generate the desired effect, one must make treatment to everyone, which needs more effort and time It takes.

• High Costs

Some of the non-pharmacological approaches, especially those involving delivery of professional professionals (e.g., psychotherapy or biofeedback training) are costly. Drug is costlier in the short term, but non-pharmacological approaches are costlier in the long term.

• Lack of research in some methods

Although a couple of the non-pharmacological interventions such as CBT and meditation have been empirically well tested, a couple such as some of the diet or art therapies are yet to be investigated. This lack of such large numbers of investigations could reduce the effectiveness of such interventions and limit their use.

Final Thoughts

Despite these challenges and limitations, non-pharmacological therapies can  help improve mental health as part of a multi-pronged approach and bring positive outcomes for patients in combination with other therapies. Each  of these therapies can be used based on individual needs and preferences and can be  applied  independently or in combination with other therapies. It is important that the best and most effective path is chosen as a result of consulting with a specialist.

Resources

Non-pharmacological interventions for mental disorders

Non-Pharmacological Treatments of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Mild Cognitive Impairment

Combining Non-Pharmacological Treatments with Pharmacotherapies for Neurological Disorders: A Unique Interface of the Brain, Drug–Device, and Intellectual Property

Disease that can affect the life of a person and hinder them from functioning normally in society and in everyday life have been for years been tackled by specialists in the field of psychology and psychiatry and looking for some way to finally treat such diseases. But one question always comes to the mind of many: is this really curing disorders, or can we deal with only their symptoms? In this article, I will first take a look at the kinds of mental and neurological diseases, then address some challenges that go along with their definite treatments.

Types of Mental and Neurological Diseases

1- Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are a category of mental disorders in which feelings of anxiety predominate. These disorders include generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Symptoms of this disorder include the constancy of worry, irrational fears, attacks of panic, and compulsive behaviors such as frequent washing of the hands. The treatment for anxious disorders, on the other hand, is through both medication and psychotherapy, though an accurate cure seems too hard, since it will depend a lot upon the environmental as well as the genetic factor.

2- Mood disorders

Mood disorders refer to the feelings that disturb an individual beyond his or her normal state with feelings of extremely high mood variations. Major depression and bipolar disorders are some of these conditions. These are long states of depression, or for bipolar disorders states that fluctuate between mania and depression. Pharmacologically, the mood disorders are treated with mood stabilizers and anti-depressants. However this is not the sure treatment due to the involvement of the biological and chemical factors of the brain.

3- Psychotic disorders

These are disorders related to the loss of contact with reality. Types include schizophrenia and delusional disorder. Symptoms of these disorders include delusions, hallucinations, thought disorders, and irrational behaviors. These disorders’ symptoms can be controlled by anti-psychotic medicines but as the mechanism of the brain and its working is so complex, the diseases are yet not curable.

4- Personality disorders

Long-standing and rigid patterns of behavior, cognition, and emotions that do not agree with the expectations of society. Varieties include borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, and paranoid personality disorder. Symptoms include dangerous behaviors, mood swings, and an inability to form healthy relationships. Treatment of personality disorders is done majorly by long-term psychotherapy, but this is often too difficult because of the profundity of these behavioral patterns.

5- Cognitive disorders

These are disorders characterized by partial loss and deterioration in the cognitive faculties of memory and thinking. The most prevalent forms include dementia and Alzheimer’s diseases. Symptoms identified with these disorders include: memory loss, poor concentration, and decision-making, and dementia. Such disorders are usually treated more symptomatically, and a fact to be noted is that arresting such disease processes is not always possible, and nor is there yet a complete ‘cure’ for them.

Common Methods of Treatment

1- Pharmacological Treatments

Of the major ways to keep symptoms of mental and psychiatric disorders under control is psychiatric medication. The types include:

• Antidepressants

Examples are the prescription of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors  for depression and anxiety.

• Antianxiety medications

Include benzodiazepines that are used to reduce anxiety and stress.

• Antipsychotics

The medications included are antipsychotics; these act to keep symptoms of schizophrenia and also delusional disorders in a controlled state.

• Mood stabilizers

Lithium can be used in bipolar disorder, to control the mood swings.

Long-term treatment by the above medications shows side effects in many cases; medication adjustment is continuously needed for a lot of patients. Also, mostly medications control the symptoms only and do not lead to any final cure.

2- Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy remains one of the most effective methodologies in the management of most psychiatric disorders. These include:

• CBT

This is a helpful psychotherapy where the patient identifies negative, unhealthy thoughts and changes them. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is effective for anxiety and depression.

• Psychodynamic therapy

This looks at the unconscious roots of a person’s behaviors and feelings. It is useful for personality disorders and complex relationships.

• Interpersonal therapy (IPT)

It emphasizes improving a patient’s social relationships and diminishing interpersonal stress. This method is also used for the treatment of depression.

Psychotherapy requires long sessions. Sometimes it gives variable response. Similarly, various psychiatric illnesses need long treatment, and at times no cure is sure.

3- Electroconvulsive therapy

It is used for patients who have not responded to other modes of treatment, especially in treatment-resistant depression, mania, and a few psychotic disorders. Possible side effects of ECT include temporary loss of memory, and the practice is still somewhat controversial because of its invasive nature. Though effective, this procedure is considered not to provide any definite cure and has generally been used as a complementary therapy.

4. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

It works through conduction of magnetic fields into the stimulation of specific portions of the brain. It is mainly used in the management of depression and anxiety disorders. This approach is little understood and thus need further research studies.

5- Deep brain stimulation

That’s implanting surgical electrodes in the brain to actuate parts of the brain. It is usually used for devastating psychic disorders like obsessive-compulsive disorders. It is also an invasive process and has prominent side effects. It is not also indicated in all patients.

How about a definite cure?

The term “definitive cure” means that the roots of the disease are pulled out and the person will never suffer from symptoms of the disease again. It is hard with regards to many mental illnesses, for a number of reasons:

1. Complications of the brain and psyche

The human brain is the most complex of all biological structures, and its functioning depends on many biological, psychological, and environmental factors. For the most part, mental disorders are brought about by disturbances in several parts of the brain and complex interactions between neurons and different systems within the brain that are still not fully understood.

2- Genetic and Environmental influences

In mental diseases, both genes and environmental factors are considered as to the genetic susceptibility of a disease. There is a susceptibility as regard to genetics, but life stresses, traumatic events, socio-economic factors may be leading to exacerbation or causing a disease. As the interaction of all these factors is so complex, hence the treatment is very complicated.

3- Chemical and structural changes in brain

Most mental illnesses are associated with a change in the level of various chemicals like neurotransmitters as well as structural changes in the brain. Sometimes these changes may be permanent or reversible after some time, which makes definitive treatment for these diseases not easily possible.

Manageable treatment instead of definitive cure

The above critical review of evidence has established that instead, the definitive treatment constitutes long-term approaches in their management. Most mental illnesses are generally the chronic disorders that do require long-term management, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders. A clear purpose in the management of their symptoms and preventing recurrence rather than obtaining a definitive and complete cure forms the basis of therapeutic intervention. These approaches mean learning to live with one’s illness and keeping it under control. Following are the methods for management that may be adopted:

1- A healthy life and lifestyle is very important for mental patients

• Healthy nutrition

It can affect the brain and mental function positively. Food containing omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and minerals improves mental health. A diet which has a balance of all nutritious elements; increases energy and elevates the patient’s state of mind.

• Regular physical activities

It release your brain’s chemical endorphins, which bring positive feelings, relax your mind, and fight away the stress generated while working out. It can thus reduce symptoms for many anxiety disorders along with depression.

• Mindfulness

This would include meditation, yoga, and breathing techniques that improve the concentration level, clear the mind to increase mindfulness, leading him to show a better interest in taking care about himself regarding daily chores and also lessening episodes associated with anxiety disorders.

2- The social and familial care incorporated during the treatment procedure

• Family support

It is important that the role of the family be in supporting such cases with pathology of a mental disorder. It is also the adherence of the patient’s family in the effective treatment that keeps him away from feeling that he is all alone facing his hardship. With this kind of support and encouragement coming from the family, there is more probability of quick recovery on the part of the patient.

• Social support

The patient may feel that he is not alone when there is social support available, participation in either a support group or finding people who experience the same disease processes. It may raise motivations for treatments. Social interaction, especially of a positive and active nature, has beneficial effects on the patient’s mental and emotional condition.

3- Stress management

These negative effects of stress can be reduced with the help of different techniques for managing stress, which may involve relaxation techniques such as yoga, tai chi, or meditation.

4 – Proper sleep

The other important aspect in the management of mental illness involves proper and good quality sleep. If disorders of poor sleep occur then the symptoms of mental illness deteriorate. Regularisation of sleep timetable along with fine sleep hygiene can improve the condition of a patient.

Final Thoughts

Though most of the mental illnesses are still not considered to have specific cures, advances in sciences and technologies pertaining to the fields of psychiatry and psychology have been able to show that the symptoms of such mental illnesses can be well managed and considerably reduced. The secret lies in regular follow-up with the psychiatrist and psychologist and being able to follow what has been set for treatment. Continuation of treatment is important, along with family and social support, in the successful management of these illnesses. Though there is no definite cure, psychotherapy, medications, and supportive methods allow affected individuals to enjoy a good quality of life.

References

Drugs to Treat Mental Illness

A Guide to Different Types of Therapy

Diseases conditions Mental illness Diagnosis & Treatment

Introduction to Their Mechanism of Action, Types, and Side Effects Depression and anxiety disorders are some of the most prevalent mental health issues in the modern world and affect millions of people across the globe. These issues can seriously deteriorate the quality of life for a person and, if not treated in time, can lead to more serious problems. Along with various psychotherapy methods, medication is one of the most effective ways to control and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. There are several types of medications, each of which works to regulate brain chemistry and improve mood. Understanding these medications, and being aware of their effects and side effects, will help people cope better with their disorders and pursue more effective treatment.

Types of Antidepressants

These drugs usually affect the level of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine-those are considered the most significant neurotransmitters associated with mood. The main types of antidepressants include the following:

1. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

The most common and widely used antidepressants are called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. Medications in this class of drugs specifically influence the levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin is a neurochemical that helps regulate mood. Because SSRIs prevent the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain, the levels of serotonin in the synapses increase and help improve the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Common names include the following:

• Sertraline (Zoloft)
• Sertraline (Asentra)
• Citalopram (Celexa)
• Fluoxetine (Prozac)
• Escitalopram (Lexapro)

Common side effects of SSRIs, though usually mild and temporary, include the following:

• Nausea and headache
• Insomnia or drowsiness
• Dry mouth and dizziness
• Decreased libido or sexual dysfunction

These medications are often used as the first-line treatment for depression and anxiety because of their high safety profile and very minimal side effects.

2. Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) – Besides their influence on serotonin, this class of drugs also acts on norepinephrine. Norepinephrine is a significant neurotransmitter that controls stress and reactions through external stimuli. The increase in this chemical enhances energy, concentration, and diminishes symptoms of depression. Common names include:

• Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
• Venlafaxine (Effexor)

SNRIs can present many of the same side effects as SSRIs but might also cause the following:

• Excessive sweating
• Anxiety or restlessness
• Increased blood pressure

These medications are generally reserved for patients who fail to respond to SSRIs.

3. Tricyclic Antidepressants

Tricyclic antidepressants were one of the first classes of medications developed to treat depression. These drugs dramatically affect both serotonin and norepinephrine, increasing levels of these neurochemicals in the brain. Common names include:

• Amitriptyline (Elavil)
• Imipramine (Tofranil)

They are usually prescribed when medications have failed because of side effects more serious. TCAs are associated with the following side effects:

• Gain in weight
• High degrees of drowsiness
• Constipation and drying of the mouth
• Heart disorders and low blood pressure

Even though it is still used in current times to treat depression and anxiety, their use is in specific cases or in treatment resistance due to their relatively high adverse effects.

4. Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors

MAOIs were one of the first generations of antidepressants. They work by blocking an enzyme called monoamine oxidase, increasing the levels of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. They have high diet and medication interaction profiles, thus are not prescribed as commonly, and often reserved for patients who do not respond to other medications. Common Names include:

• Phenelzine (Nardil)
• Tranylcypromine (Parnate)

MAOIs require a special diet because of their high interactions with foods and some medications. Consumption of foods containing tyramine in them- aged cheeses such as cheddar and parmesan; fermented and processed meats such as sausage, sausage, salami, and bacon; smoked and pickled fish-smoked fish and herring; fruits that have been preserved like raisins, figs, and dried apricots; fermented sauces such as soy sauce and fish sauce; chocolate, and cocoa may result in a sharp increase in blood pressure and serious complications. Other adverse side effects:

• Weight gain
• Sleeplessness or somnolence
• High blood pressure if taken incorrectly

Though not in wide use today, due to side effects and limitations, MAOIs are very effective in treating treatment-resistant depression.

Types of Antianxiety Medications

These medications can help individuals who suffer from anxiety disorders, panic attacks, or insomnia to feel more relaxed and better cope with everyday anxieties.

1. Benzodiazepines

The benzodiazepines are among the most effective and rapid-acting anti-anxiety medications known and widely prescribed for acute anxiety and insomnia. The mechanism of action of such medications is based on enhancement of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, thereby dampening CNS activity and generally producing relaxation. Common names include the following:

• Diazepam (Valium)
• Alprazolam (Xanax)
• Lorazepam (Ativan)

The major indications for the use of benzodiazepines are acute, short-term anxiety and when a person has severe insomnia. These medications act very fast and can immediately calm an anxious patient. However, with great efficacy, it is equally important to exercise caution with benzodiazepines due to its risk for dependence and abuse. Common side effects include the following:

• Respiratory depression in overdose
• Decreased balance and coordination
• Physical and psychological dependence
• Drowsiness and decreased concentration

Because of the risk of dependence, benzodiazepines are generally prescribed for short-term use and discontinuation under physician observation is highly recommended.

2. Non-benzodiazepine drugs

Among the non-benzodiazepine drugs known to treat anxiety is a drug called buspirone. Because this drug does not carry any risk of dependence, as associated with benzodiazepines, its action does not take effect immediately either. Common names include:

• Buspirone (BuSpar)

Buspirone works in restoring serotonin levels in the brain and has a progressive sedative effect. While somewhat slower to take effect than the benzodiazepines, buspirone carries fewer risks of dependency over the long term and also offers better anxiety control over a longer period. Unlike the benzodiazepines, buspirone usually presents fewer side effects: Common side effects include the following:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headache

This medication is mainly indicated for the treatment of chronic and persistent anxiety and, unlike benzodiazepines, is not indicated in severe insomnia.

Common Side Effects and Their Management

While generally antidepressants and neuroleptics can have positive impacts on a person’s psyche, taken concurrently, with these effects, is also the possibility of their side effects. These may be variant as according to the type of the drug and the person also, but there are many usual side effects among most of the neuroleptics and antidepressants, the intensity of which can be reduced, along with their impact with some proper management.

1. Dry mouth

Most antidepressants and neuroleptics have the tendency to cause dry mouth. Some of the complications that may arise from this problem include increased risk of dental caries and oral infections. To manage this condition:

• Ample water intake
• Chewing sugar-free gum
• Mouthwashes for dry mouth

2. Weight gain

Other common side effects of certain antidepressants and mood stabilizers include weight gain. The weight gain could be a result of the metabolic changes and increased appetite associated with the medication. To address weight gain:

• Healthy, low-calorie diet
• More physical activity and regular exercise
• Consult your doctor to see if adjustment of medication dosage is possible

3. Sexual disorders

A common side effect of some antidepressants is a decrease in libido or impaired sexual function. This problem may occur due to the effects of the medication on neurotransmitters in the brain. To reduce this side effect:

• Consult your doctor to change your medication or adjust your dosage
• Use alternative medications that have fewer effects on sexual function.

4. Nausea and digestive problems

Neuroleptics and antidepressants can cause nausea and problems in digestion, especially in the first weeks of treatment. These usually diminish when the body gets accustomed to the medication. Strategies to deal with these side effects include:

• Use antiemetics if needed
• Take medication with food

Importance of doctor consultation

Neuroleptics and antidepressants, while effective for the control and improvement of mental symptoms, call for very cautious prescription and follow-up. Each subject has to be treated with a particular type and dosage of medication; this need may also change with time.

1. The role of the doctor in determining the type of medication and dosage that is suitable

Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications, of course, should be done under the doctor’s supervision. The reason is simple: the sensitivity and complications involved in adjusting the dosage, monitoring the possible body reactions to such medications that are different in each patient; thus, the physician needs to monitor the patient’s condition in several stages of the treatment and change the dosage amount if necessary.

• Dose adjustment

It typically starts off with small doses and progresses depending on the condition and response of the patient. This reduces the chances of side effects at the beginning of the treatment.

• Side effect management

The doctor can review common side effects of medications and suggest ways to reduce them. Also, if the patient has severe reactions to a particular medication, the doctor can replace it with another medication.

2. Drug interactions

Some antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can interact with other medications and even with food, potentially causing serious side effects. It is, therefore essential that the patient is informed about possible drug interactions and will need to let the doctor know about what medications he is presently taking, which also covers herbal remedies, supplements, and over-the-counter medications.

3. The need for monitoring and adjusting medication over time

With time, the condition of the patient and the response of his body may change. In this regard, regular follow-ups with the doctor will be required to revise the medication. This may involve the following:

• adding another medicine to the treatment;
• increasing or decreasing the dose of medication;
• replacement of the medicine in cases of side effects.

4. Important warnings about abrupt discontinuation of medication

One of the most important points in taking neuroleptics and antidepressants is their abrupt discontinuation. Most of these drugs establish physiological dependence, and sudden withdrawal may lead to symptoms including:

• Flu-like symptoms
• Dizziness and severe headache
• Increased anxiety and depression

Among others, this calls for gradual withdrawal of all medicines under a doctor’s supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

5. How long it takes for medications to work

Unlike most medications, antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications take some time to be effective. They do not act rapidly within the body, and the patient needs to be informed about this to prevent sudden stoppage of the medication.

• Antidepressants

These drugs take around 2-6 weeks to fully kick in. During this time, the patient may be experiencing initial side effects which gradually subside. The doctor may advise the patient to continue for that time and not pay much attention to the initial effects as positive effects will come with time.

• Antianxiety medications

In some cases, Benzodiazepines have quite immediate effects and prove highly potent to reduce anxiety suddenly. Due to the danger of its addiction, however, benzodiazepine could not be a medication which was prescribed long. According to the characteristics, meanwhile, antianxiety medicines are those acting slow- namely SSRI medicines -the improvement may appear several weeks after medication.

Final Thoughts

Antidepressants and anxiety medications help upgrade their quality of life or a person with mental illness. This requires knowledge about the type of medication involved and its potential side effects and ongoing follow-up consultation with the doctor. Pharmacological intervention proves most successful when supplemented with psychotherapeutic counseling together with great caution during follow-ups. Patients should be compliant with their medications, yet at the same time not become so non-compliant as to forgo the need for regular physician follow-up, such that they can have a gradual improvement and be kept away from potential drug side effects. Treatment is only successful when it is collaborative between the patient and the doctor.

References

Depression Medication

Anxiety and Depression: Optimizing Treatments

Pharmacotherapy for Depression and Anxiety in the Primary Care Setting

The human mind is that one center that controls all emotions, thoughts, and behaviors and may become seriously disordered through life’s pressures and chemical changes. Neurological and psychiatric disorders can result-even dangerous mental illnesses-can pop out without warning and have crippling consequences on personal and social life. Such disorders can appear gradually or suddenly and vary from deep, debilitating depression to complicated schizophrenia and antisocial behaviors. Each of these disorders, in its own way, sends an individual on a detour away from a normal pattern of life. More often than not, the concept and realization of such problems are difficult to realize by a layman. This article defines a variety of symptoms associated with neurological and mental disorders in order to bring awareness into the light of knowledge. Understanding will better prepare one for early diagnosis and management of these disorders.

Symptoms of Neurological and Mental Disorders

1. Major Depression Disorder (MDD)

Severe depression, now also termed clinical depression, is a grave mental disorder and quite common; it can affect any person at any age in life. It can have a pretty severe impact on daily functioning and needs expert treatment. Symptoms include:

• Sadness: Feelings of sadness, despair, or hopelessness persist and can continue unabated for weeks or months without any constructive change even after good events occur.
• Loss of Interest in Routine Activities: No interest in things one used to do earlier, like hobbies, sports, or even spending time with friends.
• Appetite and Weight Change: Suddenly gaining or losing appetite dramatically, leading to sudden weight increases or decreases.
• Sleep Disturbances: Continued insomnia or sleeping too much.
• Fatigue and Lack of Energy: Severe tiredness that may not go away even after rest.
• Feelings of Worthlessness or Excessive Guilt: Feelings of self-worth and excessively belittling the self for simple things.
• Difficulty Concentrating and Making Decisions: Inability to concentrate, think, or decide on something that may interfere with work, study, and day-to-day activities.
• Thoughts of Death and Suicide: Preoccupation with thoughts of death or suicide and definite plans on how it is to be done.
• Restlessness or Psychomotor Slowness: Obvious agitation, slowed movements, and speech.

2. Schizophrenia

The symptoms of schizophrenia broadly fall into three basic categories: positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and cognitive symptoms. Each category is defined by a specific set of signs or symptoms, described below.

1. Positive Symptoms: Abnormal experiences or additions to reality, such as:

• Delusions: Strong false beliefs even when the evidence has been presented-a belief of having special powers or targeted by conspiracies.
• Hallucinations: Sensory experiences in the absence of any stimulus- examples include hearing voices that no one else hears or seeing things that aren’t there.
• Disorganized Speech: Illogical, jumbled speech with disconnected topics.
• Bizarre or Catatonic Behavior: Acting unpredictably, making aimless movements, or showing no response to the environment.

1. Negative symptoms: Include a decline or loss of normal functions such as:

• Reduced Emotional Expression: One’s face is immobile; one shows lack of interest and any form of coldness.
• Lack of Motivation: Leading to low levels of interest in normal activities, hence poor personal grooming or socializing.
• Decreased Speech: Reduction or brevity in speech for cognitive and expressive difficulties.
• Loss of Interest: No longer pleasure in activities that used to give pleasure

1. Cognitive Symptoms: Impaired processing of information manifested by disturbance in daily life:

• Attention and Concentration Problems: Feeling of not being able to focus and maintain attention.
• Working Memory Problems: Inability to memorize new or past events.
• Planning and Decision-Making Issues: Unable to plan or make logical decisions.

3. Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD)

A stubborn disorder with no respect for others’ rights, regret cannot be perceived; antisocial conduct sometimes amplified with: • Repeated violations of social rules and norms

• Repulsive Continuous Violations of Social Norms: Continuously breaking the law, theft, lying, and destruction of property.
• Chronic Lying and Manipulation: A tendency to lie one’s way to a desired end without remorse.
• Lack of Guilt or Remorse: One feels no regrets about hurting others.
• Disregard for Safety: Engagement in risky activities, including reckless driving, without consideration for consequences.
• Irresponsibility: Fails to follow through on work commitments or personal financial obligations; fails to assume responsibility for own behavior and actions.
• Failure to Sustain Consistent Relationships: Cannot maintain a continuing relationship with another person.
• Irritability, Assaultive Behavior: Repeated fights or assaults in which the physical or verbal aggression of others is provoked without clear, immediate provocation.
• Lack of Long-Term Planning: Makes impulsive decisions on the spur of the moment without consideration of consequences; lacks long-term goals or career plans.

4. Bipolar Disorders (BP)

Thus, a group of mental disorders characterized by extreme changes in mood, energy, and activity run on a continuum from one pole to another-from manic or hypomanic episodes to a major depressive episode. Symptoms:

• Increased Energy and Activity: Feeling extremely energetic with a need to tackle many tasks simultaneously.
• Grandiosity: Unrealistic sense of power or exceptional abilities.
• Decreased Sleep Needs: Sleeping only a few hours but still remaining alert.
• Racing Speech: Talking in a rapid manner, often continuously, and with such pressure that others barely have any chance of interrupting them.
• Impulsive and Risky Behaviors: Excessive spending, sexual promiscuity, or other impulsive vocational choices.
• Distractibility: Inability to stay focused on one topic.

5. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Individuals with OCD may realize that their thoughts are inappropriate and intrusive, creating anxiety that is relieved for short periods only by their compulsive, repetitive actions; eventually this pattern creates interruption in daily functioning. Symptoms include:

• Intrusive Thoughts: These are recurring thoughts. Often those thoughts are disturbing or illogical-for example, the feeling of contamination, or the fear of harming someone.
• Unwanted Mental Images: These sometimes take disturbing visual forms, such as graphic violent scenes.
• Order and Symmetry: Powerful need to arrange objects abreast, or to repeat movements in a symmetrical manner.
• Fear of harming others or oneself: Unreasonable fears of harming oneself or others.
• Repetitive Actions: Continuation of actions such as excessive hand-washing or rechecking of locks.
• Rituals and Routines: Following rigid rules for carrying out specific routines.
• Repeated Checking: To check things or situations again and again, whether the stove is off or the doors are locked.

6. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Disordered relation with unstable relationships, self-image, and mood; symptoms include:

• Extreme Variations in Relationships: Goes from idealizing to devaluing a relationship.
• Intense Abandonment Anxiety: The fear of rejection or abandonment, which in turn generates behaviors like dependency, all the way to self-harm.
• Unstable Self-Image: The person’s values, goals, and even his self-image may change from time to time.
• Impulsivity-wild: Actions such as excessive spending, reckless driving, or substance abuse.
• Self-Destructive Behaviours: Such as self-mutilation or suicidal thoughts, particularly when there is increased stress.
• Chronic Emptiness: A general feeling of meaninglessness with the life of the individual.
• Uncontrolled Anger: Intense anger; often in close relations.
• Paranoia or Dissociation: Paranoid thoughts, or detachment from reality during stress.

7. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)

Characterized with inflated self-esteem, intense need for admiration, and inability for empathy. Symptoms include:

• Grandiosity: Regarding self as much more important or valuable.
• Requires Constant Admiration: Needs praise and acknowledgement of other people.
• Sense of Entitlement: Expects special treatment and compliance with one’s desires.
• Exploitative: There is exploitation of people for personal gain, without consideration of others’ needs or feelings.
• Lack of Empathy: Does not understand or is unconcerned about the feelings or needs of others.
• Feeling Envy: Being jealous of others or assuming others are jealous of them.
• Arrogance: Acting superior and condescendingly.
• Fantasies of Success and Power: Having fantasies of unlimited success, power, or talent at all times.
• Sensitivity to Criticism: Being overly sensitive to criticism; criticism may make the patient angry or even depressed.

8. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD occurs after someone experiences or witnesses traumatic events. The symptoms should be established for over one month before a patient is diagnosed as suffering from PTSD. Symptoms include the following, which are diagnostic criteria:

• Re-experiencing of the Trauma: The event is replayed endlessly in one’s mind, sometimes in very distressing dreams.
• Physical Reactions: Oftentimes, physical kinds of reactions occur, such as palpitations of the heart, sweating, or even trembling should a person be reminded of the event.
• Avoidance of Reminders: The individual will try to avoid places, people, or activities that remind them of the trauma.
• Intense Irritability and Anger: There may be repeated outrage or annoyance .
• Difficulty in concentration: A person cannot pay attention to personal life and activities.
• Sensitivity to environmental triggers: They can be sensitive to loud noise levels or anything that reminds them of the trauma.
• Depersonalization: The individual may feel detached from the body or surroundings or think that they or the world is not real.

Final Thoughts

Neurological and psychological disorders can’t be diagnosed simply as unilateral or stereotypical symptoms; these are disorders whose manifestations differ from person to person and their timely diagnosis depends on awareness and watchfulness; symptoms at times are barely noticeable, sometimes behavioral, emotional, or cognitive in nature. This is an invitation to everyone to be more concerned about the mental health issues in our community. It is possible by creating awareness among the masses and providing additional supportive mechanisms to prevent such disorders from deteriorating further and bringing the affected person for timely proper treatment to continue his remaining life with better quality.

References

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92254/
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mental-illness/symptoms-causes/syc-20374968
• https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health