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Everyone’s health, both physical and mental, varies
from time to time and may sometimes cause problems and mean
that you experience different symptoms.
A symptom might be a pain or a difficulty
with a bodily function - for example someone with a chest
infection is likely to find that their breathing is affected
causing them some discomfort, whilst someone with schizophrenia
may experience hallucinations which may cause them anxiety
and problems concentrating.
People with mental illnesses or disorders may experience
a wide range of symptoms which can vary in their severity.
For example, anxiety may be mild, or so severe that the person
affected finds it impossible to concentrate on their work,
watch TV, or perhaps will be unable to leave their home for
months on end. Other examples of symptoms are difficulty sleeping,
feeling hopelessness or guilt, or believing that other people
are plotting against you - but as with anxiety, the extent
to which different individuals are affected by these symptoms
can vary enormously.
Early intervention means detection and treatment of psychosis
during the critical early phase of illness. Delays cause unnecessary
distress, increase the risk of relapse and are potentially
harmful for the person, their family and friends. Early treatment
has been shown to improve the long-term course of psychosis.
If left untreated, there is greater disruption
to the person’s family, friendships, study and work.
Other problems may also occur or intensify, such as unemployment,
depression, substance abuse, breaking the law and causing
injury to him/herself. In addition, delays in treatment may
lead to a slower and less complete recovery
No one is expected to
be able overcome mental health problems without support.
Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. On the contrary,
it takes courage to confront a problem and look for a
way to get better. |
To actually tell someone else, whether
this be your partner, a family member or even your doctor
that you are feeling unwell or ‘not yourself’
is a big first step that many people struggle with. Talking
to doctors can be difficult at the best of times so it is
important that you find a doctor that you feel comfortable
talking to, as many people find discussing the mental health
problems they are going through confusing and distressing.
You should feel able to talk to your doctor about what is
worrying you, discuss treatment options and ask questions,
and they should be able to answer in terms and language that
you can understand.
If you are unhappy with the response you get from the doctor
that you see, ask to see a different person next time. However
once you find a doctor that you like, it is best to stick
with them because they will gradually begin to know you and
your case.
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