Mental illnesses are quite common and affect about one in five families in the U.S. These disorders such as depression, phobias, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and many others are real diseases that one cannot get away from. Fortunately, they are often treatable. Medicines and therapy can improve the life of most people with mental illnesses. But, it is more cost-effective to have a physician prescribe mood stabilizers instead of seeing a psychiatrist. However, follow doctor’s instructions on counseling and referrals to mental health professionals.

People who are emotionally and mentally healthy are in control of their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. They feel good about themselves and have good relationships. They can keep problems in perspective. It’s important to remember that people who have good emotional health sometimes have emotional problems or mental illness. Mental illness often has a physical cause, such as a chemical imbalance in the brain. Stress and problems with family, work, or school can sometimes trigger mental illness or make it worse. If you feel that you or someone you care about is at risk, ask for help, it may not be easy at first, but there are ways and steps that may save your own or someone else’s life.

Dr. Nagako SATO, who worked as a teaching assistant of psychiatry at St. Marianna University School of Medicine, has received her PhD at St. Marianna University School of Medicine in psychiatric medicine as well as 5+ years working experience in a related field. And she also has a wealth of experience as clinical psychiatrist.

Her psychiatric clinic located in Tokyo, Japan, which provides mental health care for English-speaking people who are residing in Japan. Especially she treats depression, anxiety, insomnia,etc. In addition, for travelers from abroad, her office is available for a consultation about jet lag remedies, too.