How to Seek Help for Mental Health Problems

Getting help for mental health problems is an important step to take, especially when you have been diagnosed with a chronic mental illness. A variety of mental health professionals are available who can help you deal with your mental health problems, including general medical practitioners, psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine your mental health needs by talking to your general medical practitioner first. You should do this first, because your general medical practitioner may be able to adequately address your needs with medication or social services. Additionally, she can provide you with a referral to a specialist if necessary.

• 2

  Find a psychiatrist that is covered by your insurance by contacting your insurance company to ask for a list of psychiatrists in your area. Remember, psychiatrists primarily manage psychiatric medications. Some psychiatrists also provide psychotherapy. Keep this in mind when searching for a psychiatrist and be sure to ask which services he provides.

• 3

  Find a psychotherapy clinic by looking through your local yellow pages or by asking for a referral from your general practitioner or psychiatrist. Psychotherapy is often provided by a psychologist or clinical social worker. Remember, these health professionals are not licensed to manage medications.

• 4

  Visit your local emergency department if your mental health problem is an emergency, for example, if you have a desire to harm yourself or someone else.