When to Get Professional Mental Health Help
By Genevieve Cunningham
Protecting your mental health and well-being is quite an important task in life. It’s our mental health that makes us who we are and keeps us feeling strong and confident about life. But how do you know when your mental health is slipping? And more importantly, how do you know when it’s time to reach out and get some help? Take a look at these key signs that professional help is needed in your life.
Thoughts of Harm or Suicide
Don’t even play around if these kinds of thoughts are running through your head. If you feel any sort of feeling toward harming others or yourself, get professional help right away. It’s not the thoughts that will harm you, it’s the action. Don’t let it get that far. Instead, seek help now and make a positive difference in your life while you can. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline is 800-273-8255.
You’re Turning to Substances
We all find different ways to deal with life and all of its stressors. If your new coping technique is to reach for substances to abuse, you need to get help before the substance takes control of you. This is one of the hardest times in anyone’s life to reach out for help, but it’s also one of the most crucial. If you find that a substance is creeping into your life far too often, seek out help as soon as you can. One resource is the helpline at the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-662-HELP (4357).
Your Feelings Get in the Way of Life
It’s really OK to feel down and out sometimes. But if at any point these feelings get in the way of performing everyday tasks, it’s time to get help. Your emotions shouldn’t keep you from work or school or fun activities. If they do, you’ll need someone to help you get back on track.
You Just Want Help
If at any point in time you simply want professional help, go ahead and get it. There doesn’t have to some big event or major happening for you to get care. Getting preventative is a great idea and incredibly beneficial to your health. All in all, do what makes you feel good and confident and happy.
Your mental health matters so much to your health and well-being. Be proactive and diligent in your efforts to protect it. Keeping yourself healthy and happy makes a huge impact on your quality of life. Do what you need for yourself, and protect your mental wellness for a lifetime.
