Drugs That Treat Mental Illnesses
The term “mental illness” can refer to various disorders. There is no single, universally accepted definition. What one culture deems as mental illness is considered perfectly normal by another. As a result, the terms “mental illness” and “mental health” are not always easy to distinguish. Many people with mental illnesses need to get help from a psychologist in UAE as they can suggest better treatment options. Fortunately, some drugs are prescribed to treat mental illnesses.
Psychotropic medications:
Psychiatric medications are powerful tools for treating mental illnesses, but their inappropriate use can be harmful. The APA is working to educate healthcare providers and consumers about the risks and benefits of psychiatric medications. It also supports integrated care, where primary care physicians work closely with mental health providers to improve patient outcomes.
Mood stabilizers:
Mood stabilizers are drugs that are used to treat various mental illnesses. They can help people with bipolar disorder reduce their mood swings and prevent manic episodes. They can also help with depression. However, mood stabilizers can take several weeks to have the desired effect. As a result, they are typically prescribed during the early stages of treatment.
Antipsychotics:
Antipsychotics are used to treat mental illnesses, including schizophrenia. These medications are often prescribed in tablet and liquid forms and can help reduce agitation and other symptoms. Some antipsychotics are also given via depot injection, which releases a small amount of medication over a few weeks.
Stimulants:
Stimulants are a class of drugs that elevate moods and increase energy levels and alertness. Recently, they have received media attention because of their misuse, which can lead to psychological dependence. This is different from physical dependence and is often accompanied by mood swings, anxiety, or depression. They can also lead to excessive spending and relationship problems.
Electroconvulsive therapy:
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a medical treatment that uses electrical shocks to control the brain’s activity. The treatment is administered under the supervision of a psychiatrist. The person is usually given muscle relaxants before the procedure. During the procedure, electrodes are placed on one or both sides of the brain. This produces a controlled therapeutic seizure that lasts anywhere from twenty to ninety seconds. The treatment is usually given a week thrice for up to 12 sessions. The exact number of treatments needed depends on the disorder type and the symptoms’ severity.