The stigma and discrimination surrounding mental health challengesThere is no secret to the troubling history of medically-approved treatments. For someone suffering from a psychiatric disorder, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or ADHD, the current standard treatment is psychotropic medication. These medications are usually prescribed by a doctor and sometimes ordered by a court.
Now, researchers and clinicians have provided data to suggest that prescribed medication alone does not guarantee recovery.
“By pursuing a multi-faceted approach that combines peer support, person-driven plans and other supports with medication at an individual’s optimal level, if needed, we are witnessing results with much better long-term success,”Dr. Gina Firman Nikkel, President and CEO of The Foundation for Excellence in Mental Health Care.
Recognizing the potential side effects of psychiatric medications is an important part of this equation. Each person’s chemistry is different, so these can vary from minor and significant. Particularly if there is an addiction, side effects can be more severe than the benefits over long periods.
This model of recovery for mental health care does not work for everyone. Collaboration is essential because mental health issues can develop regardless of income, race, or age. People and their families that are dealing with mental health issues need to know that there are options.
Dr. Nikkel founded his organization in 2011 with the mission to educate professionals and people, with the aim of making the recovery model the mainstream of care. Foundation for Excellence in Mental Health Care, a community foundation, has an international reach and funds independent research. “As a community mental health development bank, we match the passion of private philanthropy with today’s top researchers to bring recovery practices to every community,” said Dr. Nikkel.
You can find out more about the Foundation for Excellence in Mental Health Care and the research it funds, as well as how you can spread the word. www.mentalhealthexcellence.org.
