How & When to Access Mental Health Care

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The past two years reinforced the importance of our mental health. The following are resources about how and when to access mental health care. 

When to Access Mental Health Care

  • If you are wondering if you should seek mental health care, talk with your primary care provider. Ask what mental health services their office provides, such as therapy or medication management, and if they would recommend any additional services. Some people find it helpful to share the results of a mental health self-assessment with their physician. You can take one here.
  • The National Institutes of Mental Health recommends that you “don’t wait until your symptoms are overwhelming,” and that you “seek professional help if you are experiencing severe or distressing symptoms that have lasted two weeks or more, such as:
    • Difficulty sleeping
    • Appetite changes that result in unwanted weight changes
    • Struggling to get out of bed in the morning because of mood
    • Difficulty concentrating
    • Loss of interest in things you usually find enjoyable
    • Inability to perform usual daily functions and responsibilities”
  • Learn more about additional signs and symptoms of a mental health conditions. 
  • Do not delay seeking treatment. Mental health professionals are very busy due to the increase in demand for their services. Try to seek care early so that you have more time to find and obtain an appointment with a mental health professional who is a great fit for you.
  • If you or someone that you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis, contact or go to a crisis service immediately. Below are potential crisis resources.

 

person in therapy

How to Obtain Mental Health Crisis Support

  • Contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 or visit their website
  • Call 211 (then enter your zip code and Press 3)
  • Use the Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • Call 911
  • Go to a mental health crisis center or an emergency department at a local hospital.
therapy group

How to Find Mental Health Providers

  • Talk with your health insurance company to identify your mental health benefits, covered mental health services, prior authorization processes, co-pays, co-insurance, deductibles, and the list of in-network providers.
  • As your primary care physician or nurse practitioner for a referral to a mental health professional.
  • Identify what mental health services are provided by your employer’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • Consult trusted friends, family, and faith community leaders.
  • Find providers and mental health resources from non-profit, government, and health organizations sources such as:
  • If you are seeking mental health support for your child or adolescent:
    • Start by consulting with your child’s pediatrician to discuss your concerns.
    • Talk to your child’s school counselor about the struggles or concerns your child is having. They will be able to share information about the supports and services that the school might be able to provide. Some examples of this support might be:
      • Meeting one on one with the school counselor or social worker to provide short term support
      • Having your student participate in a group with other students in the school who are experiencing similar issues to learn skills and strategies to assist your student.
      • Referring your student to a mental health therapist in the school or community.
      • Learn more about Hamilton Southeastern Schools Mental Health & School Counseling.
  • If you have a college student, contact the school to obtain a list of mental health resources.
  • If you have Medicare, learn about your mental health care coverage and find providers.
  • If you have Medicaid, find resources here. 
  • If you are a Veteran, visit the Veteran’s Administration website or call 1-877-222-8387. Military, veterans, and loved ones can also find support through Give an Hour.

Additional Resources: How & When to Obtain Mental Health Services