Does Mental Illness Get Worse if Not Treated? The Truth You Need to Know

Mental Illness and Its Potential for Worsening Over Time

If you or someone you know has been struggling with mental illness, one of the most pressing questions might be: does mental illness get worse if not treated? It's a common concern, and the answer, unfortunately, isn't a simple one. Mental illnesses, ranging from depression to anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, are complex. Without proper treatment, yes, mental health conditions can often worsen over time, but the progression depends on various factors.

I was having a conversation with a close friend recently, and she shared how she’d been ignoring her anxiety for a while, thinking it would just “get better on its own.” It made me think about the long-term effects of not seeking help, and how important it is to understand what could happen if mental illness goes untreated.

The Risk of Worsening Symptoms

How Mental Illness Can Progress

For many people, untreated mental illnesses can lead to a cycle of worsening symptoms. Conditions like depression, for example, can become more severe, leading to increased feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, and even suicidal thoughts. Over time, the initial symptoms might intensify, making it harder to function in daily life.

I’ve seen it firsthand with a family member who struggled with depression. At first, it seemed like just a phase, but over time, without treatment, it became clear that the symptoms were only deepening. It wasn’t just about feeling sad anymore; it started affecting their work, relationships, and overall ability to cope with daily tasks.

The Importance of Early Intervention

When mental health issues are caught early, there’s a greater chance for effective intervention. Think of it like a physical injury: if you ignore a sprained ankle, it could lead to a permanent limp or long-term issues. The same goes for mental health. Early treatment can prevent worsening and give individuals the tools to manage symptoms before they spiral out of control.

I recall talking to a therapist a while ago who emphasized the importance of early intervention in preventing mental health issues from escalating. She said that, much like a small fire, if you don’t put it out quickly, it can spread and become uncontrollable.

Long-Term Effects of Untreated Mental Illness

The Risk of Chronic Mental Illness

One of the most concerning aspects of untreated mental illness is the possibility of developing chronic conditions. Many mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and even schizophrenia, can become more entrenched if not addressed. Left untreated, these conditions might require more intensive and prolonged treatment in the future, potentially affecting an individual's ability to live a fulfilling life.

I’ve read studies showing that people who don't receive treatment for mental health issues in their younger years often experience greater challenges as they age. It’s like trying to fix a problem after it’s already grown into something much bigger than it originally was. It takes more time, effort, and sometimes more invasive treatments to address it.

Impact on Physical Health

It’s also important to recognize that mental health impacts physical health. Untreated mental illness, especially depression and anxiety, has been linked to chronic physical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even weakened immune systems. Mental illness doesn’t just stay in the mind—it affects the body as well.

A friend of mine once told me how his depression eventually led to issues with his blood pressure and sleep patterns. He didn’t initially realize how connected it all was. That really stuck with me, because it made me understand just how crucial it is to address mental health before it impacts the body in such serious ways.

Treatment Can Prevent Long-Term Damage

Therapy and Medication: Essential Components of Recovery

When mental illness is treated properly, the potential for recovery and maintaining a good quality of life is significantly increased. Therapy, medications, and support systems can all help prevent the progression of mental health issues. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), for example, is known to help people change their patterns of thinking and behavior, significantly improving their ability to manage symptoms.

I’ve also seen how medications can be a game-changer. A close friend of mine started medication for anxiety and depression, and within a few months, the difference was profound. They were able to function at work, maintain relationships, and start living their life again. It’s not always easy, and medication isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but it certainly helped in their case.

Building a Support System

Another important aspect of managing mental illness is having a strong support system. Whether it’s friends, family, or a support group, social connection plays a critical role in recovery. Without this network, it can be easy to feel isolated and overwhelmed, which only exacerbates symptoms.

I’ve personally witnessed how crucial support can be. I remember my own struggles with stress, and having friends who checked in on me made a huge difference. The act of simply being heard can alleviate so much of the pressure that comes with mental health struggles.

Is It Possible to Live with Untreated Mental Illness?

Coping Without Treatment

Some people learn to cope with their mental illness without formal treatment, and for some, it works for a time. However, long-term avoidance of treatment can lead to an overall decrease in quality of life. While you may manage symptoms for a while, the underlying issues may worsen, causing more severe emotional, relational, and physical problems down the road.

I had a conversation with a colleague who managed his anxiety by avoiding stressful situations. While this strategy worked for him for a few years, it eventually caught up with him. He began to feel trapped, as the anxiety intensified, even in low-stress environments. It wasn’t until he started therapy that he realized how much better he could feel once he confronted his issues head-on.

Accepting Help: A Crucial Step

In the end, it’s clear that getting help is crucial. Mental illness, like any other health issue, requires proper care. And while the stigma around mental health might make it harder for some to reach out, the truth is that treatment is the key to improving and maintaining mental well-being.

Conclusion: Don’t Wait—Seek Help Early

So, does mental illness get worse if not treated? Yes, it often does. Left untreated, mental health conditions can escalate, leading to long-term physical and emotional challenges. The good news is that treatment works. Early intervention, therapy, medication, and support systems can help you or your loved ones lead a fulfilling life despite mental illness.

If you’re struggling or know someone who is, reach out for help. Mental illness doesn’t define you, and with the right support, it’s possible to live a full, happy life. Don’t wait for it to get worse—start the healing process today.

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How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).

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Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years

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Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.

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Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).

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Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.

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Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.