Psychotherapy

A Brief Overview of Mental Health Statistics

There has been a significant increase in mental health awareness over the past ten years, mostly due to advocacy and better information access. This has led to a more accurate reporting of mental health disorders, as more individuals feel encouraged to seek treatment and openly communicate about their struggles.

Anxiety Disorders

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) affects 6.8 million U.S. adults (3.1% of the population), with women twice as likely to be affected as men, and it often co-occurs with major depression. However, only 43.2% receive treatment. A recent poll by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) found that anxiety levels among adults have risen significantly in 2024, with 43% feeling more anxious than the previous year, driven largely by concerns about the economy, the U.S. election, and gun violence. Despite this increase in anxiety, only 24% of adults sought professional mental health support, with younger adults being more likely to do so than older adults.

Stress and sleep were identified as the most significant factors impacting anxiety particularly among younger adults who also emphasized  significance of social connections for their overall mental health.

Depressive Disorders

Recent data from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) suggest that around 21 million adults in the U.S. have experienced at least one major depressive episode, which is about 8.3% of the adult population.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Global Burden of Disease study show that depression continues to be a significant mental health challenge in 2023 and 2024. National surveys indicate that the prevalence of depression among U.S. adults remains elevated, with particular increases among younger adults and marginalized groups.

Substance Use Disorders

Substance use disorders and addiction are often co-occurring with other mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. According to the Addiction Center, about 9.5 million Americans with substance use disorder also have a mental illness.

Findings from the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) show that 3.1% of Americans (8.9 million) misused opioids in 2023, similar to previous years, while 45.6% of the 134.7 million people aged 12 or older who used alcohol engaged in binge drinking in the past month.

Why Is Our Mental Health Deteriorating?

Several reasons contribute to the growth in mental health concerns, including the fast-paced and often overwhelming aspect of modern life, which includes multiple stresses such as work-life imbalance, financial constraints, and the influence of social media. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these challenges, leading to increased rates of depression and anxiety. Additionally, greater awareness and reduced stigma surrounding mental health have led to more people openly discussing their conditions and seeking help, which makes these concerns more visible than ever before.

Understanding Different Types of Therapy

As the number of people affected by mental health disorders continues to rise, addressing them effectively requires evidence-based treatments. Therapy plays a critical role in managing and improving mental health conditions, offering personalized approaches based on individual needs. It is essential to recognize several common types of therapy are effective for treating various mental health conditions, each with its own unique approach.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a short-term, goal-oriented talk therapy that helps individuals manage problems by changing negative thinking patterns and behaviors. The primary goal of CBT is to teach clients how their thoughts influence their feelings and behavior and how to replace dysfunctional thinking with positive patterns. CBT is most effective for treating anxiety disorders and depression but can also help with conditions such as PTSD, eating disorders, sleeping problems, substance use challenges, anger issues, and relationship problems.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a therapeutic approach that encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty about them. This therapy combines mindfulness techniques with behavioral strategies to help individuals remain present and engaged, making it practical for addressing anxiety, depression, stress, and other emotional challenges. ACT also focuses on helping individuals identify their values and goals and align their behavior with those values and goals to create a more fulfilling life. It promotes cognitive flexibility and a growth mindset that enables individuals to respond to life’s challenges with resilience and clarity.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a specialized form of CBT. It was originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD). However, today, DBT is used for a range of conditions, including mood disorders and self-harming behaviors. This therapy focuses on the psychosocial aspects of treatment. It uses mindfulness techniques to help clients become more aware of their present situation and emotions, which enables them to manage intense emotions, decrease harmful behaviors, and improve relationships.

In-Person Therapy vs. Telehealth

Traditional, in-person therapy has long been the primary method for receiving psychotherapy, requiring a client to visit a therapist’s office. However, online therapy has become increasingly popular due to its convenience, affordability, and flexibility.

Virtual therapy has the benefit of being available from home or any other place that feels comfortable. This approach is especially useful for people with hectic schedules because it allows them to receive therapy without worrying about traveling to appointments or figuring out how to adjust their schedules or arrange childcare.

Moreover, telehealth removes geographical barriers and can address shortages of mental health providers, making psychotherapy more available to those with mobility issues or living in rural areas. It minimizes wait times and provides for more flexible scheduling, encouraging clients to stick to their treatment plans and potentially leading to better mental health outcomes.

According to research, online therapy or telehealth, is as effective as in-person therapy for treating anxiety and depression.

Factors that Contribute to Psychotherapy Success

Research underscores that a supportive therapist-client relationship is a critical factor in the success of therapy and the ability of clients to improve their mental health. The American Psychological Association Task Force examined what makes therapy relationships effective. They found nine key elements, like empathy and a strong connection between therapist and client, are crucial for positive outcomes. These elements often have been found to be more effective than the specific therapy methods used.

It’s also essential for the therapist to tailor the approach to meet the client’s specific needs. This ensures the therapy is relevant and practical​. Finally, the success of psychotherapy strongly depends on both the client’s and therapist’s commitment to the process and their collaborative efforts toward achieving therapeutic goals.

Psychotherapy vs. Medication: Which One to Choose?

Choosing between therapy and medication for mental health treatment is a personal decision. What works best can vary from person to person, depending on the type and severity of their symptoms. While some people may benefit more from therapy, others might find medication more effective. In some cases, a combination of both might be ideal.

How We Can Help

Addressing mental health challenges requires a comprehensive approach and is something you should not tackle alone. Here’s how we can help:

Therapy: We can assist by offering various therapy options to address emotional and behavioral aspects of your mental health problems.

Pharmacological Measures: We offer medication treatments to manage your psychological symptoms.

Referrals: We provide referrals for specialized therapy and other treatments to ensure that each person receives the most appropriate and personalized care.

Our goal is to support individuals in finding the best path to mental wellness based on their unique needs and preferences.

Remember—seeking professional help is crucial when experiencing mental health symptoms. Therapists, psychiatrists, counselors, and support groups can offer guidance and support tailored to individual needs. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and prioritizing mental well-being is essential for a healthier and happier future.