Where Do You Find Help for Mental Health Issues?
Wednesday July 1, 2009
Chris, a new member of our Forums shares, “I have been suffering for too long now, but I've never been diagnosed. I can't believe I've been feeling this way for 15 years without telling anyone or seeking help. It's nearly ruined my life and I need to get treatment - like yesterday!”
Chris, if you need help now there is no reason to delay. There are quite a few resources available for those even without insurance:
Counseling & Mental Health Services
- The National Mental Health Location Center by SAMHSA offers a state by state directory of available government services including financial assistance programs.
- The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers an Information HelpLine and referral service which can be reached by calling 1 (800) 950-NAMI (6264), Monday through Friday, 10 am- 6 pm, Eastern time.
- Catholic Charities offers counseling and mental health services to people in need.
Crisis Resources
- Befrienders Worldwide has an international network of crisis hotlines.
- There is also the National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1-800-273-TALK.
- In the United States, any emergency room is required to see you if you are in a crisis situation.
Comments
I just went along, from about age five, having suicide on the bottom of my “to-do” list, just in case it was necessary. I never intended to get old, preferring to think of dying by 50 or so. Uncontrollable rage was finally the turning point where I sought help, only once seeing a counselor about a suicide attempt. I have been treated for bipolar disorder now for 20 years and until recently, the doctors were reluctant to label the diagnosis—simply treating it as such as long as that worked. While it is difficult to find understanding, experienced professionals, start seeking medical help, starting with your regular doctor. Get referrals and be willing to try several psychiatrists who are also trained as pharmacologists. Additionally, response is much better while getting counseling on a regular schedule, at least for now.
Good luck.