Photo credit: Craig Field Photos
Seeking Professional Help for Mental Illness: Understanding Your Options
Mental health is as vital as physical health, yet many people hesitate to seek professional help due to stigma, lack of awareness, or uncertainty about where to start. Understanding the available professional help for mental illness, including medication options and the roles of different mental health professionals, is crucial in managing mental health effectively.
Why Seek Professional Help?
Mental illnesses, ranging from depression and anxiety to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, can severely impact an individual’s quality of life. Professional help is essential because mental health conditions often require specialized treatment that cannot be adequately addressed through self-help alone. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes, making it important to seek help as soon as symptoms are recognized.
Types of Mental Health Professionals
Psychiatrists:
Role: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. They can prescribe medications and provide therapy.
When to See: If you need a diagnosis, medication management, or have complex mental health conditions that may require medical intervention.
Psychologists:
Role: Psychologists hold a doctoral degree in psychology and are trained to conduct therapy and psychological testing. They do not prescribe medication but often work in conjunction with psychiatrists.
When to See: If you need psychotherapy (talk therapy), psychological assessment, or behavioural interventions.
Licensed Clinical Social Workers:
Role: Hold a master's degree in social work and are trained to provide therapy and support for individuals facing mental health challenges. They also assist with accessing community resources.
When to See: If you need therapy, case management, or support navigating social services.
Licensed Professional Counsellors:
Role: Hold a master's degree in counselling and provide therapy for various mental health issues. They focus on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental and emotional disorders.
When to See: If you need individual, group, or family therapy.
Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants:
Role: Hold a specialization in mental health can diagnose and treat mental illnesses and prescribe medications.
When to See: If you need medication management or a combination of medical and therapeutic care.
Marriage and Family Therapists:
Role: Hold a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy and specialize in treating individuals, couples, and families.
When to See: If you are dealing with relational issues, family dynamics, or couple's therapy needs.
Below I have included medication, as you need to talk with your doctor about what medication you take, and to ensure you get the right one for you. It is really important to consult with your doctor if you want to stop or change the medication, this should always, be done under medical supervision.
And it is important to note, that in my experience most people do not get the right medication straight away, they need to try different ones before the right one is found.
Medication for Mental Illness
Medication can be a crucial component of treatment for many mental health conditions. Here are some common types of medications used:
Antidepressants:
Use: Primarily used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders.
Types: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Antianxiety Medications:
Use: Used to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and severe anxiety.
Types: Benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, and buspirone.
Antipsychotic Medications:
Use: Used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression.
Types: Typical antipsychotics (first generation) and atypical antipsychotics (second generation).
Mood Stabilizers:
Use: Used to treat bipolar disorder and mood swings associated with other mental disorders.
Types: Lithium, anticonvulsants, and certain antipsychotics.
Stimulants:
Use: Used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and sometimes depression.
Types: Amphetamines and methylphenidate.
How to Start Seeking Help
Recognize the Need: Acknowledge your symptoms and understand that seeking help is a positive and proactive step.
Consult Your Primary Care Physician: They can provide initial screenings and refer you to the appropriate mental health professional.
Research: Look for mental health professionals based on your needs, preferences, and geographical location.
Reach Out: Contact the professional’s office to ask about their services, treatment approach, and availability.
Prepare for Your Appointment: Make a list of your symptoms, concerns, and any questions you have for the professional.
Conclusion
Mental health is a vital part of overall well-being, and professional help is available for those who need it. Understanding the different types of mental health professionals and the medication options can empower individuals to seek the help they need. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength and a crucial step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
A note about the author: Craig Field (me) is not a trained counsellor or therapist. I do try to offer advice based on my own personal experience; however, you should always talk to a medical practitioner or qualified therapist to come up with a tailored plan to help with your illness. My knowledge comes from my own personal, lived experience and that of witnessing people close to me navigating the mental health system. These blog posts are not intended to replace your doctor or psychologist.
Together we CAN make a difference!
If this post has brought up some difficult thoughts for you please seek help from your doctor or one of the services listed below. In an emergency dial 000.
13YARN 13 92 76
Blue Knot Helpline 1300 657 380
First Nations Support Line 1800 959 500
Headspace 1800 650 890
Mens Helpline 1300 789 978
Standby support after suicide 1300 727 247
Comments