Taking Care Of Your Mental Well-being: A Guide To Seeking Support
When life gets too busy, it’s easy to overlook the importance of mental health. Just like physical health, your mental well-being needs attention and care.
Taking the first step to seek support can be daunting. It’s essential to remember that you’re not alone and there are resources available to help you. Here’s a guide to help you find the support you need:
1. Start with your Primary Care Physician (PCP)
Your PCP can comprehensively assess your overall health, including your mental well-being. They can screen for mental health conditions and provide referrals to specialists for expert consultation. They can also start treatment for simple conditions using commonly prescribed medications and coping strategies. Standard screening tools can help inform your providers, like the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) for depression.
2. Connect with Mental Health Professionals
If you’re experiencing ongoing mental health concerns, seek the expertise of mental health professionals such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed therapists. They can diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. They can provide individual or group therapy, medication management, and other evidence-based treatments.
Working with a Psychiatrist, in particular, can help integrate your medical and psychological symptoms for a tailored treatment and provide a comprehensive understanding of your condition. I always recommend working with a Psychiatrist to get both medical and psychological perspectives, especially for chronic and severe symptoms.
3. Utilize Hotlines, Crisis Centers, Hospital Emergency Services
If you’re in immediate crisis, don’t hesitate to seek help. Hotlines and crisis centers are available 24/7 to provide direct support and guidance. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) and the Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741) are two resources you can rely on. Hospital emergency rooms can also provide treatment and support in acute situations. Some ERs have Psychiatrists and therapists on site.
4. Join Support Groups
Support groups offer a safe and supportive space to connect with others who share similar experiences. They can provide valuable insights, encouragement, and a sense of community. You may meet others who have overcome your current situation and can learn helpful strategies to cope and improve your situation. The National Alliance on Mental Illness has local groups that can be a good start (https://nami.org/Home). Many condition-specific support groups are available online.
5. Explore Online and Mobile Tools
We’re in an expansive digital age with various online platforms and mobile apps that offer mental health resources, including therapy and counseling services. These can be particularly helpful if you have limited access to in-person services. Some health plans provide on-demand support via their telehealth platforms. Check your plan benefits, as this can be a beneficial and easily accessible service when you need it.
It’s common to isolate yourself when you’re not feeling well; this is one cue to reach out. If you look closely, you may see there are resources (including people!) that can inch you forward to wellness. If you open your doors to help, you might find people who care about you just waiting for you to let them extend help and support.
Remember, seeking help for mental health concerns is a sign of strength, not weakness. Prioritizing your mental well-being is essential to optimize your health, happiness, and living life to the fullest.
References:
- Mayo Clinic. (2020). Mental health providers: Tips on finding one. [https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mental-illness/in-depth/mental-health-providers/art-20045530]
- Mental Health America. (n.d.). Finding Therapy. [https://www.mhanational.org/finding-therapy]
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2021). SAMHSA’s National Helpline. [https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline]