Mental health problems are pervasive and can be disruptive to life and work. These are now the leading cause of disability worldwide. These problems become more pronounced and widespread during a pandemic such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This article will provide tips on how to access mental health support.
How to Access Support for Mental Health Issues
1. Therapy
Therapy is a type of treatment that involves talking to a therapist about your problems. It can help you learn new coping skills and ways to deal with your mental health condition.
2. Medication
Medication can be an effective treatment for mental health conditions. Antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers are the most commonly prescribed medications.
Medication for mental health conditions is prescribed by a psychiatrist, a doctor specializing in mental health, or a neurologist, a doctor specializing in the brain and nervous system.
3. Self-Care
Self-care is an integral part of managing a mental health condition. Some self-care activities include exercise, relaxation techniques, and getting enough sleep.
You can also reduce stress by simplifying your schedule, setting boundaries with people in your life, and making time for things you enjoy.
4. Support Groups
Support groups provide a space for people with similar experiences to share their stories and support one another. They can be a helpful way to connect with others who understand what you’re going through.
5. Health Insurance
Most health insurance plans are required to cover mental health services. That includes Medicaid, Medicare, and private health insurance plans. If you have trouble getting coverage for mental health services, you can file a complaint with the US Department of Health and Human Services.
6. Social Security Benefits
People with mental health problems qualify for Social Security disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two types of benefits: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
To access Social Security benefits, applicants must provide evidence that they have a mental health condition. You can do this by providing medical records or a doctor’s statement. Applicants must also meet certain income and work requirements. For more information, visit the SSA website.
7. Employment Assistance
People with mental health problems may have difficulty finding and keeping a job. The US Department of Labor offers a Ticket to Work program that can help people with disabilities find employment.
8. Education Assistance
People with mental health problems may have difficulty completing their education. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects people with mental health conditions from discrimination in education.
9. Housing Assistance
People with mental health problems may have difficulty finding and maintaining housing. Several programs can help, such as Section 8 vouchers and the Continuum of Care program.
10. Veterans Benefits
Veterans who have mental health problems may be eligible for benefits from the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These benefits can help with things like housing, employment, and education.
11. State and Local Resources
Each state has its mental health resources. You can find information about these resources on your state’s website or by calling your state’s mental health hotline.
12. Emergency Services
If you are in danger of harming yourself or someone else, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Free and Confidential Services
1. Crisis Text Line
If you need support but don’t feel comfortable talking on the phone, you can text “HOME” to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.
2. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
If you are in danger of harming yourself or someone else, call 1-800-273-8255 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
3. SAMHSA Treatment Referral Helpline
If you need help finding treatment for mental health problems, call 1-877-726-4727 to reach the SAMHSA Treatment Referral Helpline.
4. NAMI HelpLine
If you need support or information about mental health conditions, call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) to reach the NAMI HelpLine.
5. SASS
If you are a student in college who is struggling with mental health problems, call 1-855-327-SASS (7277) to reach SASS.
6. TrevorLifeline
If you are a young person struggling with thoughts of suicide, call 1-866-488-7386 to reach the TrevorLifeline.
7. Veterans Crisis Line
If you are a veteran in crisis or your family is worried about one, call 1-800-273-8255 and press “1″ to reach the Veterans Crisis Line.
8. The JED Foundation
If you are a college student struggling with mental health problems, call 1-888-533-JEDF (5333) to reach the JED Foundation.
9. National Eating Disorders Association Helpline
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, call 1-800-931-2237 to reach the National Eating Disorders Association Helpline.
10. LGBTQ+ National Hotline
If you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community and need support, call 1-888-843-4564 to reach the LGBTQ+ National Hotline.
11. The Samaritans USA
If you need someone to talk to about anything upsetting you, call 1-877-870-HOPE (4673) to reach The Samaritans USA.
12. RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline
For help in cases of sexual assault, call 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) to reach the RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline.
13. National Domestic Violence Hotline
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call 1-800-799-7233 to reach the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
Get the Help You Need Now
Mental health is an important issue that deserves our attention. The 25 tips in this article provide various resources for accessing mental health support. No matter what your situation is, there is likely a resource available to help you get the support you need. You are not alone, and there is help available.
