Sunshine Behavioral Medicine

How to Know When It’s Time To Seek Help for Your Mental Health

November 13, 2019
/ Author Name
/ Mental Health

It’s not uncommon for people to try and downplay their mental illness. Some patients don’t think they can afford the cost of treatment, some don’t believe it will work for them, and others don’t want to draw attention to themselves. But, as a rule of thumb: it is better to seek help for your mental illness rather than ignore it, try to fix it on your own, or hope it will go just away.

Below are a few signs that it is time to seek help for mental health. You can use them as a mental checklist for how your own health is doing.

Your Mental Health Affects Your Physical Well-Being

Your physical and mental health are more closely intertwined than you might realize. When you experience depression, PTSD, or anxiety, you could experience a variety of symptoms like migraines, gastrointestinal trouble, aches and pains, or shortness of breath. This adds a physical crisis on top of a mental one. Seek treatment before these symptoms get out of hand, and work with a doctor who takes an integrated behavioral approach to your health.

You Feel Apathetic About Things That Bring You Joy

Apathy is one of the main signs that your mental health is taking a turn for the worse. Look at the things you love in life: going out with friends, volunteering, gardening, or walking the dog. When you stop caring about all of these things, your mental health needs a check. While you may not feel the full weight of depression hitting you just yet, worse symptoms are likely right around the corner.

You Turn to Negative Outlets to Soothe Your Mind

Some people are able to reduce their anxiety symptoms with healthy activities like exercising, meditating, and journaling. These are all positive outlets for caring for your mental health. However, there are also negative alternatives that other people turn to instead. These include alcohol, drugs, self-harm, and other risky behaviors. If you find that you’re drawn to these negative outlets – and have a hard time controlling them – then you need to seek help for mental health before you get hurt.

Your Mental Health Affects Outside Aspects Of Your Life

Poor mental health has a nasty habit of taking over other aspects of your life. Your relationships or friendships could be strained by anxiety if you can’t leave the house, your work could suffer if you can’t concentrate, or your kids could feel neglected. Even if you are still interested in your main hobbies, your mental health may cause you to neglect important relationships. Don’t try to overcome your mental health challenges by yourself when they are impacting your life. Find a professional who can help you get back on track.

Seek Help for Mental Health Today

At Sunshine Behavioral Medicine, we will never judge the factors that are impacting your mental health. We are here to help you, no matter what mental state you are in. Learn more about our scheduling and appointment process. Or contact us today to set up your first appointment.

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