Throughout their lives, most individuals encounter mental health difficulties at some point. Experiencing occasional grief, stress, or sadness is a common part of the human experience. However, if you find yourself grappling with persistent or severe mental health challenges, it’s essential to seek assistance.
According to Dawn Brown, Director of Information and Engagement Services at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), “Help is readily available. Whether you feel unsafe or notice a situation escalating into a crisis, reaching out for support is crucial.”
When Should You Seek Assistance?
The following symptoms could be indicators of an underlying mental health condition:
- Thoughts of self-harm or harm to others.
- Frequent or enduring feelings of sadness, anger, fear, worry, or anxiety.
- Repeated emotional outbursts or mood fluctuations.
- Confusion or unexplained memory lapses.
- Delusions or hallucinations.
- Intense fear or anxiety concerning weight gain.
- Drastic changes in eating or sleeping patterns.
- Unexplained shifts in school or work performance.
- Inability to cope with daily tasks or challenges.
- Withdrawal from social engagements or relationships.
- Defiance of authority, truancy, theft, or vandalism.
- Substance abuse, including alcoholism or the use of illicit drugs.
- Unexplained physical ailments.
If you are contemplating self-harm or harm to others, seek assistance immediately. If you are experiencing any other symptoms from this list, consider scheduling an appointment with your physician. Once they have ruled out any physical causes for your symptoms, they can refer you to a mental health specialist and provide access to additional resources.
How to Seek Help During an Emergency
Are you currently in a situation where you are contemplating harming yourself or someone else? This constitutes a mental health emergency, and immediate action is crucial. Please proceed to your nearest hospital emergency department or reach out to your local emergency services without delay. Simply dial 911 to request immediate emergency assistance.
Contacting Suicide Prevention Hotlines
If you’ve been grappling with thoughts of self-harm, it’s essential to consider reaching out to a suicide prevention hotline for support. You can connect with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 800-273-8255, and their compassionate support is available 24/7.
Choosing the Right Healthcare Provider
There are various healthcare professionals specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. If you suspect you may be dealing with a mental health issue or require mental health assistance, it’s advisable to schedule an appointment with your primary physician or a nurse practitioner.
They can assist you in determining the most suitable type of healthcare provider for your specific needs. Additionally, in many instances, they can provide referrals to the following healthcare providers, as needed:
- Psychiatrists
- Psychologists
- Licensed therapists or counselors
- Social workers
- Psychiatric nurse practitioners
- Substance abuse counselors
Reaching out to your primary healthcare provider is often the initial step towards receiving appropriate mental health care.
Healthcare Providers and Medication Prescribing
There are various healthcare professionals who can assist with the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, including:
Therapists: Therapists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating mental health issues. They come in various specialties, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, psychoanalysts, and clinical counselors. Therapists often focus on specific areas like addiction or child behavioral problems.
It’s important to note that not all therapists have the authority to prescribe medications. Only physicians or nurse practitioners possess this capability. Occasionally, you may also consult with a physician’s assistant or a doctor of osteopathic medicine.
Psychiatrists: When a mental health condition necessitates medication, your doctor may refer you to a psychiatrist. Psychiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Their primary approach to treatment often involves prescribing medications. Many psychiatrists do not provide counseling directly; instead, they collaborate with psychologists or other mental health professionals who offer counseling services.
Nurse Psychotherapists: Nurse psychotherapists are skilled in diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders, and they may also address other health concerns. They hold advanced nursing degrees as clinical nurse specialists or nurse practitioners. While clinical nurse specialists typically cannot prescribe medications in most states, nurse practitioners have the authority to do so. They commonly use a combination of medications and counseling in their treatment approach.
Psychologists: If your doctor believes therapy would be beneficial, they may refer you to a psychologist. Psychologists are trained to diagnose and treat various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, learning difficulties, relationship problems, and substance abuse. They are also qualified to administer psychological tests, such as IQ or personality assessments.
In certain states (Illinois, Louisiana, and New Mexico), psychologists may have prescription privileges. When they cannot prescribe medication, psychologists collaborate with other healthcare providers who can fulfill this role.
Non-Prescribing Healthcare Providers
There are several healthcare professionals who do not have the authority to prescribe medication:
Marital and Family Therapist: These therapists specialize in psychotherapy and family dynamics. They commonly assist individuals, couples, and families dealing with marital or parent-child issues. Marital and family therapists, however, do not possess prescription privileges. They often collaborate with healthcare providers who do have the authority to prescribe medications.
Peer Specialist: Peer specialists are individuals who have personally overcome mental health challenges and now support others facing similar struggles. They offer guidance and inspiration, drawing from their own recovery experiences. While they provide valuable support and aid individuals in setting goals, peer specialists cannot prescribe medications as they are not clinical professionals.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): LPCs are trained to offer individual and group counseling, often with specific focuses like marriage and family therapy. Despite their counseling expertise, LPCs do not have the capability to prescribe medication due to their licensing restrictions.
Mental Health Counselor: Mental health counselors are equipped to diagnose and provide counseling to individuals dealing with various life challenges, including grief, relationship issues, and mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. While they offer counseling services individually or in group settings, they lack the licensure required to prescribe medications. Nevertheless, many mental health counselors collaborate with healthcare providers who possess prescription authority when medication is deemed necessary.
Counselor Specializations
Substance Use Counselor
Professionals specializing in substance use counseling are equipped to assist individuals grappling with alcohol and drug addictions. If you are struggling with substance abuse, these counselors can offer guidance on your journey to sobriety. Their support may include:
- Assisting in behavior modification
- Identifying and avoiding triggers
- Managing withdrawal symptoms
It’s important to note that substance use counselors are not authorized to prescribe medications. If they believe medication could be beneficial for you, they may recommend consulting with your family doctor or nurse practitioner.
Veteran Support Counselor
Certified by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), these counselors are specifically trained to provide guidance to military veterans. Many veterans return from their service with physical injuries or stress-related conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). VA-certified counselors can help veterans in various ways, including:
- Managing mental health conditions
- Transitioning from military to civilian life
- Coping with difficult emotions like grief or guilt
It’s important to clarify that VA-certified counselors do not have the authority to prescribe medication. If medication is deemed necessary, they may recommend consulting your family doctor, nurse practitioner, or psychiatrist.
Pastoral Counselor
Pastoral counselors are religiously trained counselors who offer counseling services. These individuals, often including priests, rabbis, imams, and ministers with postgraduate degrees, combine psychological approaches with religious teachings to facilitate psycho-spiritual healing.
For individuals whose spirituality plays a significant role in their identity and recovery, pastoral counseling can be a valuable resource.
While pastoral counselors cannot prescribe medication themselves, some establish professional relationships with healthcare providers who can prescribe medication when it is deemed necessary.
Professional Therapists
Clinical social workers are highly trained therapists with a master’s degree in social work. They specialize in providing counseling services, both individually and in group settings. You can find them working in various settings such as hospitals, private practices, clinics, and even homes or schools.
It’s important to note that clinical social workers are not authorized to prescribe medication.
Finding the Right Therapist
If you start experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition, it’s crucial not to delay seeking help. To begin your search, schedule an appointment with your family doctor or nurse practitioner; they can assist you in finding a suitable specialist.
Keep in mind that finding the ideal therapist may require some effort, and you may need to consult with multiple therapists before finding the right match.
Consider These Factors
Before embarking on your therapist search, consider these essential questions:
Before embarking on your search for a therapist, it’s essential to have answers to these key questions:
- What kind of mental health support are you seeking?
- Are you in need of a healthcare professional who can provide therapy?
- Are you looking for someone who has the authority to prescribe medication?
- Do you require a combination of medication and therapy?
- Contact your insurance provider
If you have health insurance, take the time to reach out to your insurance provider to determine if they cover mental health services. If they do, request information about local service providers who accept your insurance plan. If you have a specific condition that requires attention, inquire about providers who specialize in treating that condition.
Additionally, consider asking your insurance provider the following questions:
- Are all diagnoses and services covered under my plan?
- What are the copay and deductible amounts associated with these services?
- Can I schedule a direct appointment with a psychiatrist or therapist, or is it necessary to first consult with a primary care physician or nurse practitioner for a referral?
It’s prudent to request the contact details of multiple providers. The first provider you try may not necessarily be the best fit for your needs.
Search for Therapists Online
Exploring your options for therapists can be done online. You can seek assistance from your family doctor, nurse practitioner, or insurance provider to locate a therapist in your vicinity. Alternatively, you can utilize various online databases, such as:
- American Psychiatric Association: Find a Psychiatrist
- American Psychological Association: Psychologist Locator
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America: Find a Therapist
- Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance: Find a Pro
- International Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Foundation: Find Help
- SAMHSA: Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator
- Veterans Affairs: VA Certified Counselors
Online Therapy Options
For a comprehensive evaluation of online therapy choices, read our review to discover the most suitable fit for your needs.
Schedule Your Appointment
Now, it’s time to schedule your therapy appointment. If you feel hesitant about making the call, consider enlisting the help of a friend or family member to contact the therapist on your behalf. Here are some important steps to follow:
If this is your first time seeking therapy, inform the therapist of this fact. They may opt to schedule a more extended initial appointment to allow for introductions and evaluation.
If the earliest available appointment is far in the future, accept it but request to be placed on a waiting list. You may secure an earlier slot if another patient cancels. Additionally, reach out to other therapists to inquire about the possibility of obtaining an earlier appointment with them.
While awaiting your scheduled appointment, explore alternative sources of support. You might discover local support groups, seek guidance from a pastoral counselor if you are part of a religious community, or check if your school or workplace offers counseling services.
In the event of a crisis requiring immediate assistance, do not hesitate to visit a hospital emergency department or dial 911.
Discovering the Perfect Fit
After your initial meeting with a therapist, it’s essential to assess whether they are the right fit for your needs. Consider the following crucial factors:
Qualifications and Experience: Take into account their level of education and professional background. Have they worked with individuals facing similar challenges or dealing with comparable diagnoses? They should possess the qualifications necessary to offer the services they provide. Typically, most discussed providers should hold at least a master’s degree, or in the case of psychologists, a doctoral degree.
Comfort and Rapport: Reflect on how comfortable you feel around them and the impression they give. While some of the personal questions your therapist asks may be uncomfortable, they should not make you feel uneasy. You should sense that they are supportive and on your side.
Cultural Sensitivity: Assess whether they understand and respect your cultural background and identity. Are they open to learning more about your background and beliefs? It’s advisable to follow NAMI’s guidance on finding culturally competent care.
Treatment Approach: Inquire about the processes the therapist uses to set mental health goals and evaluate progress. Consider the type of improvements you can expect from their approach. You may find one method of care more suitable and comfortable than another.
Appointment Logistics: Determine the frequency of meetings and how easy it is to schedule appointments. Can you reach out to the therapist via phone or email between sessions? If their availability doesn’t align with your needs, it may be worth exploring alternative service providers.
Affordability: Discuss the cost of their services upfront, especially if you have concerns about payment, insurance copays, or deductibles. Inquire about options such as sliding-scale fees or discounts. Many healthcare professionals prefer to address potential financial challenges in advance to ensure uninterrupted treatment.
If you find that you are uncomfortable with your initial therapist, don’t hesitate to seek out another. Being a qualified professional is not enough; you must also have a productive working relationship. Establishing trust is vital for meeting your long-term treatment goals.
Can You Access Assistance Through the Internet or Phone?
Remote therapy sessions can be conducted via various communication channels, including voice, text, chat, video, or email. Some therapists provide distance therapy for clients who are traveling, while others specialize in offering remote therapy as their primary service. For more information on distance counseling, you can explore the resources provided by the American Distance Counseling Association.
Additionally, numerous resources are available online and over the phone to assist individuals in managing mental health challenges.
Hotlines:
Various organizations operate hotlines and online services to provide crucial mental health support. Here are a few examples:
- The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers phone assistance to individuals experiencing domestic violence.
- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers phone support to those in emotional distress.
- SAMHSA’s National Helpline offers treatment referrals and information to individuals dealing with substance abuse or other mental health issues.
- The Veterans Crisis Line provides support to veterans and their families.
You can conduct an online search to discover more services available in your specific area.
Mobile Apps:
An increasing number of mobile apps are designed to assist individuals in managing their mental health. Some of these apps facilitate communication with therapists, while others connect users with peer support networks. There are also apps that provide educational resources and tools to promote good mental health practices.
It’s important to note that mobile apps should not be used as a substitute for your doctor’s or therapist’s prescribed treatment plan. However, certain apps can complement your overall treatment strategy and prove beneficial as an additional resource.
Free Mobile Applications
Breathe2Relax: A portable stress management tool that offers in-depth insights into the impact of stress on the body. This app guides users in mastering stress through diaphragmatic breathing techniques. It’s accessible at no cost on both iOS and Android devices.
IntelliCare: Specifically designed to assist individuals in managing depression and anxiety, the IntelliCare Hub app, along with its complementary mini apps, is available for free on Android devices.
MindShift: Tailored to help young individuals understand and address anxiety disorders, MindShift provides valuable information on conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, specific phobias, and panic attacks. Additionally, it offers practical tips for developing fundamental coping strategies.
PTSD Coach: Primarily created for veterans and military service members dealing with PTSD, this app delivers comprehensive information on PTSD, including treatment options and management strategies. It also features a self-assessment tool and is accessible for free on both iOS and Android devices.
SAM: It is a valuable resource for anxiety management, offering guidance and support. It’s accessible for free on both iOS and Android platforms.
TalkSpace: It revolutionizes therapy accessibility by connecting users with licensed therapists through a messaging platform. Additionally, it offers access to public therapy forums. You can easily download it for free on both iOS and Android devices.
Equanimity: It serves as a meditation companion, aiding in stress relief through regular practice. It’s available for $4.99 on iOS devices.
Lantern: It is a subscription-based service that delivers sessions aimed at enhancing emotional well-being. For current pricing details, reach out to their customer support. Although primarily web-based, they also offer a complimentary iOS app.
Worry Watch: Worry Watch is designed to assist users in documenting and managing experiences related to chronic worry, anticipatory anxiety, and generalized anxiety disorder. You can acquire it on iOS for $1.99.
Could nonprofit organizations be of assistance to you?
Whether you are dealing with the loss of a loved one or struggling with mental health challenges, there are numerous nonprofit organizations ready to offer support. Consider connecting with one of the organizations mentioned below, or conduct an online search to locate a suitable organization in your vicinity.
Alliance of Hope for Suicide Loss Survivors: This organization extends support to those who have lost someone to suicide, aiding them in their healing journey.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: Dedicated to individuals affected by suicide, this foundation provides valuable resources and guidance.
Candle Inc: Focused on preventing substance abuse, Candle Inc. offers specialized programs.
Child Mind Institute: If you’re dealing with mental health and learning disorders within your family, this institute provides invaluable support.
Children’s Health Council: Offering support services, this organization assists children and families in managing various mental health and learning challenges.
Finding Balance: A Christian organization, Finding Balance helps people establish healthy relationships with food and weight.
Hope of Survivors: Providing support to victims of clergy sexual abuse and misconduct, this organization also educates clergy and churches.
Knights of Heroes Foundation: This foundation hosts an annual wilderness adventure camp for children who’ve lost their parents during military service.
Mental Health America: Dedicated to promoting good mental health, this organization focuses on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for those at risk of mental illness.
National Alliance on Mental Illness: This organization is committed to the well-being of individuals affected by mental illness and offers education and support resources.
National Child Traumatic Stress Network: Striving to enhance care for children and youth exposed to traumatic events, this network is a valuable resource.
National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health: Advocating for policies and services that support families dealing with emotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges in children and youth.
Treatment Advocacy Center: This center promotes policies and practices to enhance psychiatric care and supports mental health research.
The Trevor Project: Focusing on crisis and suicide prevention, this organization provides support for LGBTQ+ youth.
Soaring Spirits International: Offers peer-based support programs to individuals coping with grief.
Sober Living America: Provides structured living environments for those in recovery from alcohol and drug abuse.
Washburn Center for Children: Offers support to children facing behavioral, emotional, and social challenges.