Mental Health Treatment for Young Adults
Mental Health Treatment Programs for Young Adults
In the US, young adults between the ages of 18 and 25 have a higher prevalence of any mental illness, but only 44 percent of them seek professional services. They also have the highest prevalence of serious mental illness (SMI). 11.4 percent of the group faces a mental health condition that causes impairment of daily functions. However, young adults with serious mental illness are far less likely to receive treatment than middle-aged and older adults. Statistics like these signal a mental health crisis, but why is this happening? A range of factors, such as a lack of awareness, stigma, and little confidence in mental health care services, prevent young adults from seeking the help they need.
Adolescents and young adults in need of mental health services require an environment that nurtures their minds and gives them space to heal. At United Recovery Project, we understand that young men and women face a number of stressors in everyday life that can exacerbate serious mental illnesses. It’s why we provide a residential treatment center that offers compassionate care and support for long-lasting recovery. Using evidence-based approaches and a team of professionals, we focus on treating the whole person and not just the condition itself.
Mental Health Treatment Programs for Young Adults
Adolescents and young adults in need of mental health services require an environment that nurtures their minds and gives them space to heal. At United Recovery Project, we understand that young men and women face a number of stressors in everyday life that can exacerbate serious mental illnesses. It’s why we provide a residential treatment center that offers compassionate care and support for long-lasting recovery. Using evidence-based approaches and a team of professionals, we focus on treating the whole person and not just the condition itself.
Mental Health Disorders and Drug Abuse: A Common Connection
Studies show that certain mental illnesses are risk factors for a substance use disorder. Young people may take substances or alcohol as a way to self-medicate their symptoms and cope with traumatic experiences. On the other hand, the use of substances and alcohol can lead to chemical imbalances in the brain that exacerbate mental illnesses. It’s why experts make sure to consider factors such as drug abuse when treating mental illness in adolescents and early adults.
Co-occurring Treatment
It’s quite common for mental health conditions and substance use or eating disorders to overlap among young people. According to the National Institutes of Health, over 50 percent of young adults ages 18 to 25 with a substance use disorder have a co-occurring mental illness as well. Co-occurring disorder refers to the existence of a mental health condition and substance use disorder or eating disorder. To provide appropriate care for co-occurring disorders, the facility must specialize in performing dual diagnosis.
Here's what you can expect from a dual diagnosis program at our facility:
- Initial assessment and screening
- Psychiatric evaluation
- Group therapy
- Medication management
- Therapy to alleviate mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and other serious mental illnesses
Different combinations of co-occurring disorders can exist, which is why we take a tailored approach to treat each patient.
What to Look for in a Young Adult Residential Treatment Program.
Evidence-Based Therapies
It’s imperative that the program relies on evidence-based practice as a way to treat your disorders. These therapies are based on scientific evidence, are peer-reviewed, and have proven to be effective. Some examples include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and family therapy.
Certified Specialists
Treating mental issues in adolescents and early adults is different and requires specific expertise and qualifications. It’s why you should seek a facility where the staff is trained and certified to provide care for people who are struggling with behavioral and potential substance use issues.
Holistic Approach
Facilities following a holistic approach don’t just treat the condition but focus on improving the individual’s physical, spiritual, and mental wellness. Also known as an integrative approach, it combines conventional and modern treatments, such as therapeutic massage, sound therapy, and acupuncture.
Education and Skill-Building
For long-term recovery, it’s important to equip patients with functional skills and knowledge that can help them lead better lives. Adaptive functional skills training can help you follow social norms and become more productive in work, school, and social environments. And because you’re seeking a program for young adults, it should offer employment and educational support to increase the likelihood of financial independence.
Recreational Activities
Mental health treatment centers that provide recreational amenities encourage movement and relaxation while providing various benefits. Studies show that recreation improves your cognitive ability, concentration, and communication skills. It’s why facilities should provide amenities such as outdoor areas, basketball courts, swimming pools, and art therapy.
Dedicated Treatment Team
At the URP facility, each patient’s treatment plan is handled by a team of registered psychiatrists, nurses, therapists, case managers, and physicians. All residents are under supervision throughout the day to ensure their safety and steady recovery.
How to Talk to Your Child About Their Mental Health
For parents trying to improve their children’s mental health, having a discussion can seem challenging. Experts offer the following recommendations to start the conversation.
- Talk About Your Own Feelings: Your kids won’t open up unless you do. Make sure you tell them when you’ve had a bad day at work or are just feeling low.
- Give Analogies They’ll Understand: Kids and teens may feel confused about how their feelings (e.g., nervousness) lead to physical responses (e.g., nausea). Explain mental health in terms of physical health to help them understand.
- Listen To Them: In parent-child relationships, it’s common for parents to do all the talking, which can make children and teens feel unheard. Being an active listener can do wonders for their self-esteem and mental well-being.
- Tell Them It’s Not Their Fault: It’s common for children to feel guilty for having unpleasant thoughts or feelings. As the parent, you should validate their feelings and tell them that it’s not their fault for having them.
Although talking to your child about their mental health is beneficial, it’s not an alternative to seeking professional treatment. Once your child is comfortable talking about their feelings, schedule an appointment at a mental health facility that specializes in treating children and adolescents.
Residential Treatment
Here’s what you can expect during residential treatment.
Each week, residents can expect to undergo 40 hours of treatment. After all, the aim is not only to distance you from a stressful environment but to give you the means to recover as well.
Amenities at Residential Programs for Young Adults
Private and Semi-Private Rooms:
You can share a room and bathroom with another resident or book a private room and bathroom.
Chef-Catered Meals:
Gourmet breakfast, lunch, and dinner are catered daily, along with beverages and snacks.
Fitness Amenities:
The facility has a well-equipped gym with the latest equipment and a certified trainer to help you exercise regularly.
Acupuncture and Massage Therapy:
Treatments like acupuncture and therapeutic massage promote well-being and relaxation.
Yoga and Meditation:
Yoga and meditation classes are great for alleviating stress levels and increasing body awareness.
Outdoor recreational activities:
Outdoor amenities such as a pool and basketball court encourage physical activity and interaction with other residents.
Outdoor Recreational Areas:
The grounds provide picnic areas where residents can relax and enjoy being outdoors.
Book off-site activities and visits
We also book off-site activities and visits for appointments or adventure therapy.
What's Next?
Reaching out for help is the first step of your journey toward better mental health. Give us a call to schedule an assessment with one of our professionals and understand the different treatment options available.
References
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/childrens-health/in-depth/mental-illness-in-children/art-20046577
- https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Kids-Teens-and-Young-Adults/Kids/How-to-Talk-to-Your-Child-About-Their-Mental-Health
- https://positivepsychology.com/evidence-based-therapy/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8558542/
- https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/common-comorbidities-substance-use-disorders/why-there-comorbidity-between-substance-use-disorders-mental-illnesses
- https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/common-comorbidities-substance-use-disorders/part-1-connection-between-substance-use-disorders-mental-illness
FAQ
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about mental health issues among young adults.
The best way to determine if you have a condition is to speak with a professional and undergo an assessment. Some treatment centers may offer an online assessment option to help you evaluate whether or not you have a condition. A few common signs include anxious feelings, emotional dysregulation, and social withdrawal.
Therapies such as cognitive behavioral or dialectical behavior therapy are useful for alleviating mental health problems. Medication can be prescribed in combination with psychological therapies as well. Additionally, you can benefit from options such as group and individual counseling and holistic treatments like therapeutic massage and yoga.
There is no cure for most mental illnesses. Mental health professionals can provide treatments to manage symptoms. Additionally, you may go through different therapies to encourage relaxation and build insight. By mastering coping techniques and gaining insight into what causes symptoms, you can improve function at home, school, work, or social environments.
Some of the treatments available at URP include CBT, DBT, trauma-informed therapy, and individual psychotherapy. Some treatments you can use in combination include animal therapy, sound therapy, and art therapy. You can enroll in an outpatient or inpatient treatment program, depending on your diagnosis.
Some signs of poor mental health in children include persistent low mood for over two weeks, low self-esteem, and suicidal thoughts. You may observe these symptoms as avoidance of family members and friends, changes in eating and sleeping habits, and trouble focusing at school. Some children also start rebelling against teachers and parents.
Let us guide you towards healing
We know that seeking treatment can be overwhelming, but our staff is here to make the process as smooth as possible. We’re available 24/7 to address any questions or concerns you may have.
