Breaking Myths About Psychiatric Treatment: Debunking Common Misconceptions
The stigma surrounding seeking treatment at a mental hospital is often led by a dozen of misconceptions about mental health and psychiatric care. While mental health issues are being discussed openly today, however, many individuals resist asking for help and treatment due to the strong myths attached to mental health, which discourages people. Unfortunately, these assumptions and beliefs create barriers to care, preventing those struggling with mental health issues from asking for the help they require.
This article will shed light on some of the common myths related to mental health care and seeking treatment, thereby providing a reality check on these essential healthcare facilities.
Myth 1: Psychiatric Hospitals are Only for Dangerous People
Reality: Mental hospitals treat a variety of mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders and schizophrenia where patients are non-violent. The primary goal is to help patients recover, not isolate them from society. Many are admitted for shorter durations to treat major depressive disorder or substance abuse and are not a threat to society. Mental hospitals prioritize a safe and calm environment, focusing on healing. Those with severe symptoms are handled by trained professionals.
Myth 2: Psychiatric Health Centres are Depressing and Cold Establishing
Reality: Mental health centres are designed to be warm, comfortable, and conducive to healing. Patients at a rehab centre are offered private and semi-private rooms, with and without air conditioning. The environment surrounding mental hospitals is also supported by sunlight and greenery. Patients are encouraged to participate in outdoor activities and engage in recreational activities, which are crucial for faster recovery. Dance therapy, walk sessions, and art therapy are part of the healing process in open spaces, creating a safe and homely environment for recovery.
Myth 3: Patients are Caged at a Psychiatric Hospital Against Their Will
Reality: Voluntary admission at a mental health centre is highly common, with individuals often self-motivated to seek complete recovery during their stay. Involuntary admissions only happen if they pose a serious harm to themselves or others. The focus of mental health centres is on collaboration, helping patients regain control over their well-being. Patients have the right to be informed about their treatment and progress.
Myth 4: Medications are the Only Treatment Offered at a Mental Hospital
Reality: While medication management plays a crucial role in treatment, psychiatric hospitals offer therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy, counselling sessions, and complementary therapies like yoga and mindfulness practices. This holistic treatment approach provides long-term recovery and reduces relapse rates. Medications are carefully monitored by psychiatrists who focus on the symptoms of each patient.
Myth 5: Psychiatric Hospitals are Last Solutions
Reality: Hospitalization is not just for individuals with severe cases but also serves as a preventive measure for those at risk or experiencing deteriorating mental health. Individuals with minor mental health conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders may also seek treatment through short-term stays. Inpatient mental health treatment centres provide a structured environment where the primary focus is recovery without external pressures of life. Seeking help does not signify failure but is the first step toward progress.
Myth 6: One Can Never Return to the Normalcy of Life After Psychiatric Treatment
Reality: People seeking psychiatric treatment can often live a fulfilling and productive life. After receiving the right treatment and care, many individuals can return to work, maintain social relationships, and live healthy lives. With proper support, individuals can achieve significant improvement in their mental health and well-being.
Myth 7: Psychiatric Patients Are Mad
Reality: Mental patients are not "mad." They need the right treatment and care at the right time for complete recovery. Unfortunately, the stigma of being labeled as "mad" deters many from seeking treatment, but the truth is that these individuals can lead successful, productive lives with the right help.
Myth 8: Mental Hospitals Are Outdated and Inefficient
Reality: Psychiatric hospitals have evolved, incorporating evidence-based treatment methods and therapies to help patients recover from mental illness. Today’s mental hospitals emphasize holistic recovery and patient empowerment. They focus on relapse management and lifelong recovery, providing modern, efficient care for those in need.
Athena Behavioural Health as the Best Treatment Centre for Mental Disorders
Athena Behavioural Health in Gurgaon, Delhi, India, plays a vital role in breaking the stereotypes and myths about seeking treatment in a mental hospital. Athena provides compassionate care focused on healing. They offer a structured and safe facility with evidence-based treatment programs such as cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, and recreational therapy, alongside medication management and counselling sessions. Athena’s approach helps reduce the stigma surrounding psychiatric care, motivating individuals to seek the help necessary for recovery without hesitation. To contact Athena, dial +91 92890 86193 or email customercare@athenabhs.com.
Conclusion
Breaking the myths about mental hospitals and treatment is crucial for reducing the stigma attached to psychiatric care. Understanding the reality of mental health disorders, their treatment, and causes can encourage people to ask for help when needed. Mental health centres are not places of isolation or judgment, but rather places of hope and healing, where individuals can regain their well-being and live fulfilling lives.
FAQs about Psychiatric Hospitals
It depends on the clinic and patient. Some mental hospitals have strict restrictions on phone use, while others may allow patients to use their phones on a priority basis or under specific conditions.
To avoid misconceptions, it's best to read recent, reputable news articles about mental illness and psychiatric care. You can also speak directly with a psychiatrist for a clearer understanding of the realities of mental health care.
LGBTQIA+ patients receive the same compassionate and professional care as all other patients. They are treated with respect and dignity, and there is no discrimination or mistreatment based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Yes, many psychiatric hospitals allow patients to continue their education or work remotely while receiving treatment. This flexibility is often provided to support patients’ recovery while maintaining some normalcy in their lives.
The duration of stay in a psychiatric hospital varies based on the patient's condition and progress. For example, addiction treatment may require a three-month stay, while some psychiatric conditions may require longer-term care depending on the individual's recovery process.
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