Figuring out you need help

The first step to getting help is realizing that you need it. Sometimes figuring this out is obvious, sometimes it isn't. It may come as a spark, as a result of being fed up, as a culmination of long-standing feelings and emotions, as a suggestion from family or friends, or something completely random and unexpected. The most important thing is to not be ashamed or deny this need - everyone feels it at some point and we all need to reach out to people for help. When you find the strength to admit that you need help, the world is open to you! You may consider getting help if...

• you feel isolated or lonely
• you are feeling depressed
• you are stressed or dealing with anxiety
• you believe you have an eating disorder
• you went through something traumatic
• you face discrimination or harassment
• you need help with your relationships
• you have difficulties with work or school
• you deal with drug or alcohol addictions
• you are having suicidal thoughts

Reaching out to someone

The first thing you should do to get proper treatment is to see a family physician. He or she can do an evaluation, help you make positive lifestyle changes, and refer you to a professional if necessary. Support from family and friends is also important for recovery. Because we realize that these things aren't always possible, there are many other places where you can start. You can also consider reaching out to...

• mental health specialists
• community mental health centers
• health organizations
• private clinics
• religious leaders
• hospital psychiatry departments
• outpatient clinics
• mental health counselors
• telephone book or search engine
• the emergency room (in a crisis)

Different types of help

There are different types of help from many outlets. Finding the right assistance to match your needs can be overwhelming and challenging at first, but it is always worth it once you do find the perfect fit! It is not uncommon to go through many doctors, therapists, and services before finding the right one. Some different places you can go to are...

• Therapist

  
  There are many different types of therapy, one of the most common being talk therapy. Therapists generally use counseling and methods that do not involve the prescription of medication, although they can refer you to a psychiatrist and work closely with him or her if they see fit. The most important thing to consider when seeing a therapist is fit - do you feel comfortable with this person? Does he or she specialize in areas related to the issues you seek help for? Finding the right therapist is very tough, so don't feel discouraged if it doesn't work out the first few times.

• Psychiatrist

  
  You may be referred to a psychiatrist through a family doctor, therapist, or community mental health center. Psychiatrists are doctors that will assess your physical and mental health and treat you based on their broad knowledge of both the mind and body. Psychiatrists are able to provide medical treatment and prescribe medications based on their diagnoses. Many of them provide limited therapy, although few do provide psychoanalysis in conjunction with medical care. When looking for a psychiatrist, you may choose to start with your health insurance company, health care professionals, medical schools, hospitals, or directories.

• Support Group

  
  Peer support is a very helpful tool that allows you to connect with others in similar situations. Support groups may be peer-led or facilitated by a mental health professional. A visit to your local mental health center is a good resource to finding a support group to fit your needs. You may also search the internet, ask for referrals, or through organizations such as Mental Health America. If you are on or near a college campus, there may also be groups with other students. Online support networks, such as discussion boards and blogs, are also growing and are a good resource for some who are getting started.

Financing

Money issues are a huge reason why people refuse treatment. If you have health insurance, your health insurance provider is generally a good place to start. Your health insurance plan can provide you with coverage information and a list of doctors who accept your plan. For those without health insurance or who have maxed out their coverage, patients are suggested to talk to their therapists about working out payment plans or asking about fee reductions.

Community mental health centers generally provide affordable care based on your income. Colleges and universities may also have social work interns or graduate students who may provide services for a reduced fee. If you are a college student, your school may have a counseling or mental health center that provides free or low-cost care to students. Many states have programs and benefits to cover costs for those without health insurance.