Mental Health Facilities in Missouri

Mental Health Treatment in Missouri

Missouri is not one of those states with a poor public mental health system. As the system faced neglect at the start of the 2000s, mental health was declining in the state. Even though things are better now, about 4.5% of Missouri’s adult population still suffer from mental illnesses of different kinds. Sadly, only about 45% of these mental illnesses get treatment. In most cases, those who do not get treatment cannot do so because they do not have access to quality information and resources. In this article, you will find all of the information you need regarding getting mental health treatment in Missouri. 

Symptoms of mental illness in Missouri

We frequently forget that our brain is an organ in the body that is susceptible to diseases. As such, mental illnesses are like any other disease. These diseases can affect anyone irrespective of age, race, or gender. However, early detection can save your life. The following are some signs that a person needs help with their mental health:

• Abuse of substances
• Chronic sadness that won't go away
• Consistent sleep problems
• Consistent tiredness and stress issues
• Constant delusions, hallucinations, or paranoia
• Difficulty concentrating
• Extreme phobias
• Problems with extreme rage
• Recurring aches and pains
• Strong desire to isolate oneself from others
• Sudden appetite loss or overeating
• Suicidal ideation

Mental illnesses do not disappear without treatment. Most times, they get worse if you don’t take fast action. Therefore, if you feel any of these symptoms, you should seek help as soon as possible.

How long does mental illness treatment last in Missouri?

In Missouri, like in other states, the length of treatment for mental illness varies. Some illnesses, such as behavioral illnesses, typically necessitate months of intensive therapy. Other less severe issues, however, may, hospitalization for 20 to 30 days. Sometimes, such hospital treatments are followed by therapy sessions that might last long. However, early detection and treatment as well as the patient's response to treatment, are some critical factors that might affect treatment duration.

Treating both mental illnesses and addiction in Missouri

If you are dealing with a mental illness, there is a good chance that you also have a substance abuse problem. The more you try to avoid taking your medication, the worse the problem becomes. You are not alone; statistics show that roughly half of the people living with mental illnesses also struggle with substance abuse. The condition is referred to as dual diagnosis.

If you have a dual diagnosis, you will require the assistance of a dual diagnosis treatment facility. The problem is unusual in that the two conditions must be treated concurrently for the patient to recover. For example, a patient who is has developed psychosis as a result of cocaine consumption needs to treat both conditions simultaneously.

Although both conditions were caused by cocaine abuse, doctors must treat both conditions. Otherwise, treating the psychosis alone may exacerbate the cocaine addiction, rendering the entire treatment ineffective. Mississippi has several dual-diagnosis treatment facilities staffed by trained professionals who can handle any dual diagnosis issue.  Even if you have multiple addiction problems, these professionals treat dual diagnoses holistically and help you recover.

Residential vs. Outpatient Treatment  

Some mental illnesses in Missouri must be treated in a hospital setting. Residential or inpatient treatment refers to programs that require a patient to stay in the facility to receive treatment. During inpatient treatment, patients must stay in housing units provided by the treatment facility. The housing unit provides a haven for the patients to heal from stress and triggers.

The other option is outpatient treatment. This treatment option is best suited for patients who are stable and on their way to recovery. It can also apply to patients with less severe problems. Patients enrolled in the program visit the treatment facilities for checkups, medication, and therapy as needed.