Treatment of mental disorders in Ukraine

Modern life undeniably thrusts us into a whirlwind of relentless stress. It's clear that only a rare few can claim to be free from anxiety and possess unshakable mental health. The frantic pace of today's world breeds fears, anxiety, depression, and disorders in sleep and eating habits. These mental health struggles are among the most intricate and pervasive medical challenges faced globally. The emotional toll is profound, touching lives in every corner of the world. Mental disorders include depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and other psychoses, dementia, mental retardation, and developmental disorders, including autism. On a global scale, about 280 million people suffer from depression, and over 700 000 people commit suicide yearly, according to the WHO. Around 7.8% of UK adults are affected by some type of medical health disorder, including anxiety and depression. Mental health problems are common in the United States, where nearly one in five adults live with a mental disorder. 

Sadly, we often overlook how chronic stress can lead to a myriad of serious health issues. Emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and sleep disorders are just the beginning. Stress can also wreak havoc on our gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems. Countless individuals worldwide grapple with mental health challenges without even realizing it. Moreover, many who are aware of their struggles avoid seeking help from psychologists or psychiatrists, viewing it as either shameful or unnecessary. This reluctance only deepens their suffering, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness and acceptance of mental health care.

Mental disorders manifest in various ways, reflecting our unique psyches and physiological differences. These disorders are complex, with similar symptoms potentially indicating entirely different conditions. Additionally, many mental illnesses progress gradually, making early diagnosis challenging. However, some common symptoms include:

• Mood changes. As a rule, this state is accompanied by emotional outbursts (sudden and uncontrollable laughing and crying, feelings of happiness and anger). 
• Excessive fears or worries. If you feel anxious for 1-2 weeks, especially if there is no reason for this, you may have a mental disorder. 
• Memory impairment and absent-mindedness. Both extreme fatigue of the nervous system and the presence of a mental disorder can cause these symptoms. If after rest and sleep this condition nevertheless does not go away, then you should see a doctor.
• Sleep problems. Insomnia, nightmares, excessive sleepiness, or sleep, after which the person still feels run down and experiences low energy are obvious symptoms of mental disorders. 
• Hallucinations (visual, auditory, tactile, gustatory, and olfactory). For instance, a person can see people and objects that don't exist in objective reality. These are often signs of psychosis, schizophrenia, and other illnesses.
• Withdrawing from life. If a person starts avoiding his friends and loved ones or suspends doing activities he used to enjoy, he may need help.
• Abuse of substances like alcohol or drugs. Using these substances, a person tries to cope with problems. Though, on the contrary, it contributes to mental illness. 

Mental illnesses can stem from a variety of factors, all of which impact brain function. Some examples include:

• Traumatic brain injury, benign and malignant brain tumors
• Genetics, as mental disorders may be inherited
• Some medical conditions like diabetes mellitus or cancer
• Brain chemistry such as chemical imbalances in the brain
• Childhood trauma
• Alcohol and drug misuse
• Systematic stressful situations, nervous strain

However, only a medical specialist can determine the exact cause of the development of a chronic or acute mental disorder after a comprehensive diagnosis of the body.

A person struggling with mental illness cannot face it alone. It's crucial to seek help from specialized clinics where professional psychiatrists and psychotherapists can provide a thorough diagnosis, pinpoint the root cause, and develop an effective treatment plan.

Accurate diagnosis is the first step in any treatment plan. It begins with a comprehensive assessment of the patient's overall physical health and central nervous system, including brain studies. Medical specialists conduct lab tests to check hormonal and other bodily systems, ask detailed questions, and evaluate the patient's psychological state to identify issues that could impact treatment. Effective treatment of mental disorders often involves medications that regulate metabolic processes between brain cells, addressing many underlying pathologies. Pharmacological treatments are typically combined with psychotherapy.

Psychological counseling is a vital part of treatment. Regular therapy sessions help patients understand their illness and its causes, manage stress, cope with negative emotions, control their thoughts and actions, and regulate their behavior. Psychotherapy usually lasts several months or more and is tailored to each individual.

If you're worried about a friend or loved one, encourage them to see a doctor. For treatments related to drug and alcohol addiction or mental disorders like depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and other psychoses, feel free to contact us. Our medical treatment center in Kyiv, Ukraine, is dedicated to helping you or your loved ones build a meaningful, healthy life. Choose Ukraine as your medical tourism destination and UA Destination as your reliable medical tourism agency!