Mental health recovery refers to the process through which individuals with challenges regain control over their lives, achieve wellness, and strive to reach their full potential. The recovery process from mental illness is much like recovery from a physical illness. Distinct phases are involved, so recovery doesn't happen all at once.
Knowing what to expect during the recovery process from mental illness can help individuals navigate challenges effectively and stay motivated. What are the 3 phases of mental health recovery? The three phases include the acute phase, the recovery phase, and the maintenance phase.
For someone struggling with their mental health, recovery can be the catalyst for change that hands you back your life. Take a closer look at the phases of mental health recovery and the key factors involved.
Understanding the Phases of Mental Health Recovery
Mental health recovery is not always a completely linear process. Many people experience ups and downs throughout their recovery journey. However, two in three individuals with mental illness do recover with the appropriate care.
Most people can pinpoint three distinct phases of their mental health journeys: Acute, Recovery, and Maintenance.
Acute Phase
The acute phase, which is sometimes referred to as the critical period, is when symptoms either emerge or are recognized. During this phase, symptoms of mental illness are most apparent.
For example, an individual with something like depression or anxiety may feel emotionally overwhelmed. They may also start to recognize their symptoms are no longer manageable, and they need to seek help. An individual with a more severe mental health issue may develop symptoms like delusions, suicidal ideation, or confusion.
The challenge is that people in the acute phase may not always recognize they need help. Or, they may be unsure about where to turn to get help or even apprehensive about seeking treatment.
Almost 20 percent of American adults have received mental health treatment, but many people refrain from seeking the care they need. Helping an individual recognize that treatment is needed at this stage is paramount to transitioning into the recovery phase.
Recovery Phase
The recovery phase is when an individual with a mental illness is actively working toward symptom management and achieving their goals. For many people, this will occur when they enter a formal mental health rehabilitation program. However, the recovery phase can also begin when the individual commits to therapy and treatment.
The recovery phase is always unique to the individual. Mental health disorders are exceptionally diverse and require a broad spectrum of treatment approaches. Therefore, an individual in the recovery phase may undergo psychotherapy, behavior therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medicinal support or management, holistic treatment, and more.
The overarching goals of the recovery phase are always centered around managing symptoms and helping the individual gain control of their life and emotions. The biggest challenges during the recovery phase can be achieving the proper diagnosis and encouraging the individual to remain committed to therapeutic programs.
However, certain elements of the recovery phase can also be challenging on an individual level. For instance, some individuals find it difficult to overcome cravings if they are struggling with substance use disorder. Likewise, an individual with PTSD may find it difficult to work through traumatic memories to gain more control over their emotional responses.
Maintenance Phase
Once individuals work through their recovery plan with the best treatment modalities, they enter the maintenance phase. The maintenance phase is where symptoms of the mental illness are controlled or stable. The individual puts everything they learned during recovery into practice.
The maintenance phase requires ongoing support for the individual. For example, someone leaving an inpatient treatment facility may commit to continued outpatient therapy a few times a month. It is also important for the individual to have access to resources for the long term to prevent relapse.
Key Factors in Mental Health Recovery
Mental health recovery is most successful when the individual has certain elements in place. Therefore, during mental health treatment, most programs will involve several key factors.
Support Systems
Those struggling with mental health need a good support system. Friends and family are most often considered the first line of support. This is why working through challenges with familial and personal relationships during treatment is so important.
However, fostering a good support system can also be done by making sure the individual has access to peer support groups, counselors, and treatment providers. For this reason, peer support groups are a core component during recovery for many types of mental illness.
Therapy and Treatment
Effective mental health recovery involves accessing appropriate therapy and treatment. This often includes evidence-based therapies such as CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and other modalities tailored to individual needs.
Medication management, when indicated, also plays a crucial role in stabilizing symptoms and supporting overall well-being. Collaborating with mental health professionals ensures that treatment plans are comprehensive and address both immediate symptoms and long-term goals. A personalized care plan is vital to ensure all needs of the individual are appropriately addressed.
Self-Care Practices
Self-care is essential in maintaining mental well-being throughout the recovery process. Many people lose sight of the importance of self-care when struggling with their mental health. Therefore, recovery often involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and sufficient sleep.
Additionally, mindfulness practices, relaxation techniques, and hobbies that promote relaxation and joy contribute significantly to reducing stress and enhancing resilience. Integrating self-care into daily routines supports ongoing mental health stability and reinforces the progress made in therapy and treatment.
The First Step Toward Recovery Begins with Making a Decision for Your Mental Health
The acute, recovery, and maintenance phases of mental health recovery can involve unique elements for each person. However, seeking help and support as you work through these phases is always recommended.
Going through the recovery process can seem overwhelming. Yet, the empowerment of having control over your mental health on the other side is life-changing. If you are struggling with your mental health, decide today to achieve mental wellness by exploring treatment options.
Sources
https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/press-announcements/20230104/samhsa-announces-nsduh-results-detailing-mental-illness-substance-use-levels-2021
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db380.htm
