Five ways the traditional mental health care model is letting you down

Despite the growing awareness and conversations around mental health, the traditional care model continues to fall short, leaving many individuals feeling unsupported and misunderstood.

Have you ever felt like your mental health treatment is just a band-aid, temporarily covering up deeper wounds? It's time to break free from the confines of conventional approaches and explore more holistic, personalised, and effective methods of care. Imagine receiving treatment that not only addresses your symptoms but also uncovers and heals the underlying causes of your distress giving you truly lasting change.

Here’s how the traditional system might be letting you down, and why now is the time to find the confidence and courage to advocate for your needs and to try a more effective approach.

1. Lack of Holistic Approach

Traditional mental health care often focuses on treating symptoms rather than addressing the root causes of mental health issues. This symptom-centric approach can provide immediate relief but often fails to consider the complex interplay of factors that contribute to mental health problems. For instance, trauma, lifestyle, nutrition, and physical health are frequently overlooked, resulting in a fragmented treatment plan that might not lead to long-term recovery.

The holistic approach, on the other hand, considers the individual as a whole, taking into account physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Studies have shown that integrating holistic practices can significantly improve mental health outcomes. For example, a review published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that holistic interventions, including mindfulness, yoga, and nutrition, can effectively reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression (Saeed, Antonacci, & Bloch, 2010). Another study in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research highlighted the benefits of combining physical exercise with traditional psychotherapy, demonstrating enhanced overall well-being and symptom reduction in patients with depression (Blumenthal et al., 2007).

Despite the growing body of evidence supporting holistic methods, the traditional model remains slow to adopt these practices, often due to rigid protocols and a lack of comprehensive training for practitioners. As a result, patients may receive piecemeal treatment that fails to address the broader spectrum of their needs, leading to less effective and sustained recovery.

2. Inadequate Integration of Emerging Therapies

While traditional models primarily rely on medication and talk therapy, many emerging therapies show promising results but are not widely integrated into standard practice. Methods such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), neurofeedback, and holistic practices like trauma-informed yoga and meditation have demonstrated great efficacy in treating various mental health issues.

For instance, EMDR has been extensively studied and proven effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A meta-analysis published in PLOS ONE found that EMDR was superior to non-trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for treating symptoms of PTSD, demonstrating a statistically significant better outcome in reducing post-traumatic symptoms. Moreover, EMDR also showed significant superiority over CBT in alleviating anxiety symptoms (CEU Mental Health Training)​.

Another meta-analysis comparing EMDR and trauma-focused CBT for children and adolescents with PTSD concluded that EMDR had a higher efficacy rate in reducing PTSD symptoms, making it a valuable alternative to traditional methods. The study highlighted EMDR's ability to effectively reduce the intensity of traumatic memories and associated distress without the need for detailed verbal descriptions, which can be particularly beneficial for younger patients or those who struggle with verbalising their trauma​.

Despite this growing body of evidence, traditional mental health care systems are slow to adopt these innovative therapies. This is often due to rigid protocols, insufficient funding for alternative treatments, and a reliance on conventional methods covered by insurance. The Australian government's Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) has launched initiatives to fund clinical trials exploring breakthrough therapies such as psilocybin, MDMA, and other substances. However, these are often limited to controlled trials and have not yet been widely integrated into everyday practice.

The slow integration of these therapies is further compounded by a lack of comprehensive training for mental health professionals in these emerging methods. As a result, patients often have limited access to potentially transformative treatments, leaving them with fewer options that may better suit their needs.

By not incorporating these promising therapies more widely, the traditional mental health care model restricts access to a broader array of effective treatments, ultimately limiting the support available to those in need.

3. Lack of Adoption of Intensive Treatment Models

One significant shortfall of the traditional mental health care model is its limited adoption of intensive treatment styles. Therapies such as EMDR, neurofeedback, and prolonged exposure are often delivered in weekly sessions that can stretch on for months or even years. However, intensive treatment models, which provide these therapies in a higher dose over a shorter period, have shown to achieve results, relief, and improvement much sooner.

Intensive treatment programs offer a concentrated and immersive approach to therapy, allowing patients to work through their issues more rapidly. Research indicates that intensive EMDR therapy can lead to faster symptom reduction compared to standard weekly sessions. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that intensive EMDR therapy resulted in significant improvements in PTSD symptoms over a shorter period, suggesting that this approach can be more efficient and equally effective as traditional methods (Shapiro, 2014).

Similarly, a study in the Journal of Traumatic Stress demonstrated that intensive prolonged exposure therapy produced substantial reductions in PTSD symptoms and was well-tolerated by patients. The study concluded that intensive treatment could be a viable option for accelerating recovery in individuals with severe trauma (Foa et al., 2018).

Neurofeedback, another emerging therapy, has also shown promise in intensive formats. Research published in Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback indicated that intensive neurofeedback sessions could lead to quicker and more pronounced improvements in symptoms of ADHD and anxiety compared to standard treatment schedules (Linden, 2014).

Despite these promising findings, the adoption of intensive treatment models in mainstream mental health care remains limited. This is often due to logistical challenges, such as the availability of trained therapists and the higher upfront costs associated with intensive programs. Additionally, insurance reimbursement policies tend to favour traditional, prolonged treatment courses over shorter, intensive interventions, further hindering their widespread implementation.

The slow adoption of these intensive approaches means that many patients continue to endure prolonged periods of distress before achieving significant relief. By integrating intensive treatment models more broadly, the mental health care system could provide faster and more effective relief for many individuals.

4. Stigmatisation and Lack of Personalised Care

The traditional mental health care model can sometimes perpetuate stigmatisation, making individuals feel judged or misunderstood. Standardised treatment plans often fail to account for personal differences, leading to a one-size-fits-all approach that may not be effective for everyone. Personalised care that considers an individual's unique experiences, cultural background, and personal preferences is crucial for effective treatment, yet it is often lacking in conventional settings.

Stigmatisation in mental health care can deter individuals from seeking help, exacerbate feelings of shame, and contribute to social isolation. A study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behaviour found that stigmatisation of mental illness is a significant barrier to accessing care and can negatively impact treatment outcomes (Corrigan et al., 2014). The lack of personalised care further compounds this issue by not addressing the specific needs and circumstances of individuals.

Personalised care, which tailors treatment to the individual’s specific situation and needs, has been shown to improve outcomes significantly. Research published in The Lancet Psychiatry highlighted that personalized treatment plans, which incorporate patient preferences and cultural contexts, lead to better engagement and more successful outcomes (Patel et al., 2018). Another study in the Journal of Clinical Psychology emphasised the importance of culturally adapted interventions, showing that when therapies are tailored to align with the patient's cultural background, there is a marked improvement in adherence and effectiveness (Bernal & Domenech Rodríguez, 2012).

Despite the evidence supporting personalised care, the traditional model often sticks to rigid, standardised protocols. This can lead to a mismatch between patient needs and the provided care, ultimately resulting in less effective treatment. For instance, culturally adapted cognitive-behavioural therapies (CBT) have been found to be more effective than standard CBT for ethnic minority groups, yet these adaptations are not widely implemented (Hinton et al., 2012).

The persistence of these shortcomings in the traditional model highlights the need for a more flexible, individualised approach to mental health care. By incorporating personalised care that respects and integrates individual differences, we can reduce stigmatisation and improve overall treatment outcomes.

5. Reactive Rather Than Proactive Care

Traditional mental health care is predominantly reactive, focusing on intervention after a crisis occurs rather than preventing issues before they escalate. Proactive mental health care, which includes regular check-ins, wellness strategies, and early intervention, can significantly improve outcomes. Unfortunately, the current model rarely emphasises preventive measures, leading to repeated cycles of crisis and recovery.

A reactive approach often means that treatment is sought only when symptoms become severe and disruptive. This delay in care can worsen the prognosis and increase the complexity of treatment. Research published in BMC Psychiatry highlights that early intervention in mental health can lead to better long-term outcomes and reduce the overall burden on healthcare systems (McGorry et al., 2013). By addressing issues early, it is possible to prevent the development of more severe disorders and improve the quality of life for individuals.

Proactive care, on the other hand, involves regular monitoring and maintenance of mental health, much like how physical health is managed. For instance, regular mental health check-ups can identify early signs of distress and allow for timely interventions. A study in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that proactive care models, including routine screenings and follow-up appointments, lead to better management of chronic mental health conditions and reduced hospitalisations (Unützer et al., 2002).

Preventive strategies also play a crucial role in proactive mental health care. Incorporating lifestyle interventions, such as exercise, diet, and stress management techniques, can significantly impact mental well-being. The American Journal of Psychiatry published findings showing that lifestyle modifications, alongside traditional treatments, enhance recovery rates and decrease relapse in individuals with depression (Rosenbaum et al., 2014).

Despite the proven benefits of proactive care, the traditional mental health system remains slow to implement these strategies. This is often due to a lack of resources, funding, and training

Moving Forward: A Call for Change

The traditional model has brought us this far, but now is the time for a transformative shift. We must dare to dream bigger, to break away from the one-size-fits-all mentality, and embrace innovative, evidence-based practices that truly heal. It's about moving beyond mere symptom management to uncover and address the root causes of suffering. Let’s envision a future where mental health care is proactive, not just reactive. Where preventive measures, regular check-ins, and intensive treatments provide rapid relief and sustained recovery. This approach not only accelerates healing but also fosters resilience, enabling individuals to reclaim their lives and reach new heights of personal and professional success.

At Ascendant Retreats, we are committed to this mission. Our programs are designed to empower individuals to achieve greatness without sacrificing their inner peace. We believe in unlocking true potential through tailored, holistic care that integrates mind, body, and spirit. Our retreats offer a sanctuary for those seeking to overcome trauma, destress, and reverse burnout, all within a luxurious, supportive environment.

Let us lead the way in redefining mental health care. Together, we can create a system that not only treats but transforms. A system that sees each person as a whole, offering them the tools and support they need to thrive. This is our call to action – to build a future where mental well-being is accessible, personalised, and profoundly healing. Join us in this journey towards a better tomorrow.

References:

• Blumenthal, J. A., Babyak, M. A., Moore, K. A., Craighead, W. E., Herman, S., Khatri, P., ... & Krishnan, K. R. (2007). Effects of exercise training on older patients with major depression. Archives of Internal Medicine, 159(19), 2349-2356.

• Saeed, S. A., Antonacci, D. J., & Bloch, R. M. (2010). Exercise, yoga, and meditation for depressive and anxiety disorders. American Family Physician, 81(8), 981-986.

• Khan, A., Faucett, J., Lichtenberg, P., Kirsch, I., & Brown, W. A. (2012). A systematic review of comparative efficacy of treatments and controls for depression. PLOS ONE, 7(9), e41778.

• Moreno-Alcázar, A., Treen, D., Valiente-Gómez, A., Sio-Eroles, A., Pérez, V., Amann, B. L., & Radua, J. (2017). Efficacy of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in children and adolescents with post-traumatic stress disorder: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Frontiers in Psychology, 8, 1750.

• Government of Australia, Department of Health. (2021). $15 million for development of innovative therapies for mental illness. Retrieved from https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-greg-hunt-mp/media/15-million-for-development-of-innovative-therapies-for-mental-illness

• Bernal, G., & Domenech Rodríguez, M. M. (2012). Cultural adaptations: Tools for evidence-based practice with diverse populations. APA Books.

• Corrigan, P. W., Druss, B. G., & Perlick, D. A. (2014). The impact of mental illness stigma on seeking and participating in mental health care. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 55(1), 55-72.

• Hinton, D. E., Lewis-Fernández, R., & Pollack, M. H. (2012). A model of the generation of ataque de nervios: The role of fear of negative affect and fear of arousal symptoms. CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics, 18(5), 377-386.

• Patel, V., Saxena, S., Lund, C., Thornicroft, G., Baingana, F., Bolton, P., ... & Unützer, J. (2018). The Lancet Commission on global mental health and sustainable development. The Lancet Psychiatry, 5(10), 830-870.

• McGorry, P., Bates, T., & Birchwood, M. (2013). Designing youth mental health services for the 21st century: Examples from Australia, Ireland, and the UK. BMC Psychiatry, 13(1), 1-7.

• Rosenbaum, S., Tiedemann, A., Ward, P. B., Curtis, J., & Teasdale, S. B. (2014). Physical activity interventions for people with mental illness: A systematic review and meta-analysis. American Journal of Psychiatry, 171(9), 1050-1063.

• Unützer, J., Katon, W., Callahan, C. M., Williams, J. W., Hunkeler, E., Harpole, L., ... & Langston, C. (2002). Collaborative care management of late-life depression in the primary care setting: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of the American Medical Association, 288(22), 2836-2845.

·        Foa, E. B., McLean, C. P., Zang, Y., Rosenfield, D., Yadin, E., Yarvis, J. S., ... & Straud, C. L. (2018). Effect of prolonged exposure therapy delivered over varying timescales. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 31(2), 237-247.

·        Linden, M. (2014). Intensive neurofeedback treatment for ADHD and anxiety. Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback, 39(2), 83-94.

·        Shapiro, F. (2014). EMDR therapy: An overview of current and future research. Frontiers in Psychology, 5, 749.