Mental illnesses are medical conditions that disrupt a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, ability to relate to others and daily functioning. Mental illnesses often result in a diminished capacity for coping with the ordinary demands of life if left untreated. More than 54 million Americans are affected by mental illness each year.

The Medical Center of Southeast Texas is here to provide a continuum of care to help those in Southeast Texas who suffer from a mental illness. The Medical Center of Southeast Texas provides some of the most intense levels of care from inpatient treatment to intensive group therapy on an outpatient basis. Some persons who suffer from mental illness may have a lack of support and limited resources. To help eliminate some of these barriers, The Medical Center of Southeast Texas provides free transportation to and from the outpatient program for those in the Golden Triangle area. The Medical Center of Southeast Texas recognizes the importance of caring for the whole person including both physical and mental health.

Serious mental illnesses include major depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The good news about mental illness is that recovery is possible. The best treatments for serious mental illnesses today are highly effective; between 70 and 90 percent of individuals have significant reduction of symptoms and improved quality of life with a combination of pharmacological and psychosocial treatments and supports.

Mental illnesses can affect persons of any age, race, religion, or income. There are many myths and stigmas attached to mental illness which often keep people from getting help. It is important to know that mental illness is not the result of personal weakness or lack of character. Mental illnesses are treatable. Most people diagnosed with a serious mental illness can experience relief from their symptoms by seeking help and playing an active role in their recovery. In addition to medication treatment, psychosocial treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy, peer support groups and other community services can also be components of a treatment plan and that assist with recovery. For more information, call (409) 853-5745.