Research shows that over half of all people with mental illnesses will never find treatment. Stigma, fear, and personal obligations are just a few of the barriers to getting the help they need. Fortunately, support is available. Learn how to find a mental health provider that’s right for you.
Understand Your Needs
Finding the right treatment plan is essential to healing. Fortunately, there are plenty of options, but finding the right program to fit your needs is vital. Be honest with yourself and be ready to explain your condition to a professional. Whether you are dealing with PTSD, personality disorders, depression, or substance abuse, it’s essential to understand what you are experiencing. You may be experiencing multiple conditions, so dual diagnosis treatment is the best option.
Finally, if you are experiencing a mental health emergency, such as suicidal thoughts or plans, you need emergency treatment. Start by checking into an emergency room, heading to an inpatient facility, or contacting the suicide hotline at 988.
What About Special Needs?
Some programs may offer treatment plans for specialized needs, whether severe mental illnesses, age differences, gender-based care, or anything else. For example, there are treatment plans available that are specifically suited for:
- Minors
- Women
- LGBTQ+
- Sexual or domestic violence survivors
The list goes on. If you have a particular need for your treatment plan, look around for treatment options or contact a treatment facility today to see what they offer.
Decide Between Inpatient and Outpatient Care
When choosing a mental health provider, one of the most significant decisions is choosing between inpatient and outpatient programs. Here’s what you need to know.
What Are Outpatient Programs?
Outpatient programs can cover a wide variety of services. Depending on your needs, these may include:
- Doctor visits
- Therapy sessions
- Medication treatments
- Support groups
What defines an outpatient program is that you live at home and pursue your treatment plan on your own time. Outpatient care creates the least possible disruption to your life. However, continuing to live your life may impact your healing.
That’s especially true if you are in an undesirable living or work situation or if you have toxic relationships in your life. Remaining in such a situation could pose a detriment to your care. Still, this is an option if you can’t commit to taking time off of work or away from your family. Outpatient mental health treatment can offer the help you need with minimal adjustments. The ability to go at your own pace and apply what you learn to your life can help boost your recovery.
What Are Inpatient Programs?
Inpatient programs can offer anything you’d find in an outpatient program. The only difference is that you live at the treatment facility for a designated period. Inpatient care allows you to focus on treatment. You’ll have a routine of daily care, including support groups, therapy, and access to medical and mental health services when you need them. Depending on your type of treatment plan, this can also include addiction recovery, detox, or other services.
Consequently, inpatient programs are ideal for anybody who needs time to focus solely on recovery. Finding an inpatient mental health program is ideal if you’ve recently experienced a major mental health crisis. In many cases, there’s no substitute for having time to focus on healing, distancing yourself from stressors and temptations, and learning the tools you need for a successful life.
If this sounds daunting to you, we understand. While it is a commitment, it’s also an opportunity. Just remember that, outside of treatment, you’ll have plenty of recreational activities to keep yourself busy, you can make lasting friendships along the way, and you can leave the facility better than when you started.
Talk to Mental Health Providers
If you’re still unsure about which program is right for you, contact mental healthcare providers and ask them about their treatment options. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Talk to them about their services, let them know your concerns, and ask for options. You may even do an initial meeting with a psychiatrist, primary care doctor, or therapist. This meeting could help you find recommendations.
If you already have a diagnosis or know what’s wrong, look for programs in your area that fit your needs. From there, reach out and ask about admissions, verify your insurance, and try to enroll right away. Again, especially if you’re facing an emergency, do not wait any longer to find help.
Find a Mental Health Provider Today
Now that you know how to choose a mental health provider, there’s no time like the present to start. Finding help is an essential step to recovery; that step doesn’t get easier with time. If you want to get back to a healthy, fulfilling, and successful life, then take that first step today.
Stay up to date with our latest wellness tips, and don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or for help finding the right program for your needs.
