Getting
Professional Help
by Holly Socolow, MHS,
CEAP
If life's problems are
keeping you from functioning well, professional help can make a big
difference. If you're having trouble, you are certainly not alone;
in any given year, one in four adults has a mental health concern.
You don't have to be in
crisis to seek help. Getting help isn't a sign of weakness;
it's actually an act of courage to take steps to get your life back on
track.
A mental health professional
can help you:
-
Come up with plans for
solving problems.
-
Change behaviors that hold
you back.
-
Heal pain from your past.
-
Feel stronger in the face
of challenges.
Getting Started
If you've never been to a mental health care provider, knowing what to
expect can make it easier.
-
Before you call, think
about what traits you'd like in your provider. It's important to
feel comfortable with that person. Would you rather see a man or
woman? Do you care if the person is older or younger? Are
there other traits that matter?
-
During the first visit,
the provider will likely ask you questions about your background and
why you're seeking help. You can also ask questions, such a what
could be involved in treatment and how long it might last.
-
If you're concerned about
confidentiality, you can review your privacy rights with your
provider.
-
Treatment for a mental
health issue can include medication and psychotherapy. In many
cases, the two work well together.
Getting the Most from
Treatment
Your relationship with your provider is a partnership. You'll get
more out of it when you:
-
Tell your provider your
goals for treatment. Are there certain behaviors or issues
you care about most?
-
Keep an open mind.
Be willing to consider new ways of behaving and thinking that might
improve your quality of life.
-
Recognize that talking
about personal issues can be tough, but it can help you resolve
them. Over time, treatment can help you develop more coping
skills, stronger relationships and a better sense of yourself.
-
If you think you're not
making progress, tell your provider. A good provider will
want to work with you so you can get the most from your sessions.
If you're still not comfortable after discussing your concerns,
consider looking for another provider.
-
Be honest.
Your provider can't really help if you don't share the whole picture.
Don't say you're find if you are not.
-
Share any concerns
about your overall health. Mental, emotional and physical
health are closely related.
Call Life Management
Associates for an assessment with a mental health professional. We
can help you take the first steps toward getting your life back on
track.
Resources
Holly Socolow, MHS, CEAP, is Manager of
Employee Assistance Services for Life Management Associates. Contact
Holly at 717.394.6688 or via email
hsocolow@lifemanagement.cc
