When you are dealing with any sort of issue in your life, getting help is often the most difficult step. However, it is the first step that is needed when it comes to getting your life back on track and living in the best way. Of course, it is a lot easier said than done, and that is why we have put this blog post together. Below, we are going to provide you with the help and assistance you need when it comes to taking the first step and getting the help that is required.
When should you seek help?
There are some cases whereby it is obvious that you should seek help, i.e. if you have an evident gambling addiction or you rely on alcohol to get through the day. Nevertheless, there are some other cases whereby it is not as obvious, for example, if you have a mental health problem, but you cannot attribute it to something specific that is going on in your life.
Getting help is typically the first step toward getting better and staying well, yet it can be difficult to know where to begin or where to turn to. Feeling unsure is common, and you may wonder whether or not it would simply be better for you to handle things on your own. However, it is critical to remember that it is always okay to ask for help. You do not need to be going through a major crisis in order to get help with your mental health. In fact, you are encouraged to do this whenever you feel like it may benefit you.
Some of the common scenarios whereby it is a good idea to seek help are as follows:
You are interested in finding a treatment or further support
You have feelings and thoughts that you struggle to cope with, which are having an impact on your daily life
You are finding it difficult to enjoy your life
You are worrying more than you usually would
Do you have a friend or family member you can speak with?
This is the first question that you should ask yourself. Do you have a loved one you can speak with? If so, open up to them! Yes, it can be hard. In fact, it will be difficult. But once you open up and speak about the problem you are encountering, it will make a world of difference. You know what they say, a problem shared is a problem halved, and this is most certainly the case. Simply sharing what you are going through can take the weight off your shoulders. You will be able to ease the burden and not take on everything by yourself.
Once you have opened up to someone, you will be able to rely on them to help you through the problem. You know that you have someone to talk with and confide in about what you are experiencing, and this fact alone can make a monumental difference in your life.
Reach out to a charity
If you cannot speak to your friends or family, what about reaching out to a charity? There are lots of great charities out there that can assist with any sort of problem you may be experiencing, whether it is a mental health issue, a debt problem, or addiction. Charities offer a safe place that can help you with any of the issues you may be encountering. They will be able to recommend different resources and clinics as well for further help and assistance once you are ready.
Peer support
Peer support is another option to consider. This means seeking guidance and assistance from those who are going through the same experience as you. Bringing together individuals with shared experiences can make a big difference. From alcohol support groups to online forums, there are many different options available to you when it comes to peer support.
Peers can share experience, suggestions, information and answer your questions when it comes to supporting and self-care options. They can also provide you with understanding and empathy, as well as supporting you and listening to how you are feeling.
Look for professional help
One of the best ways that you can get the help you need is by looking for a professional clinic to assist you. A good example here is alcohol or drug abuse. Looking for an outpatient rehab that has the professionals you need can be the best thing that you ever do. You will be able to speak with people who understand what you are going through. They will get to the bottom of what triggers your actions and causes you to turn to drink, drugs, or whatever else your vice may be.
They will also make sure that you receive the assistance and treatment you require. They can use a whole host of approaches, from talking therapies to medication. At the end of the day, everyone is different, and we all experience problems such as addiction in different ways. This is why you need to have a bespoke treatment plan put together, which is perfectly tailored to suit your needs and your personality. This is where professional help really shows its worth, ensuring that you get the right help so that you have the most efficient and effective route to recovery.
Consider booking an appointment with your doctor
Another option that you may want to consider when it comes to getting the help and assistance you require is to book an appointment with your doctor. For a lot of us, our local GP practice is the first port of call when we are not feeling very well. Remember that your doctor is not only there to assist you with your physical health but your emotional health as well.
Your doctor can help you in a number of different ways, including making a diagnosis, recommending local support options, referring you to a mental health specialist, such as a psychiatrist, and offering you treatments and support, from medication to talking therapies.
You may be disappointed to learn that your doctor is not willing to offer you a treatment that you are interested in. There are times whereby a treatment may not be offered to you, even if it is a treatment that is available. This can be disheartening, yet there are a number of different reasons why this may be the case. Firstly, this may be because they think that it is not likely to help you. In fact, it could even be because they worry that the treatment is going to be harmful to you, for instance, if you have issues in the past with addiction, your doctor may decide that it is not best to provide you with a medication that could be potentially addictive, such as a specific type of tranquilizer.
Needless to say, it could be an oversight. They happen from time to time. Sometimes doctors are not aware of all of the services in the local area, or they may have forgotten. Yes, it can be frustrating, but simply bring up the possibility of certain treatments with your doctor and ask them for further help. If you are not satisfied, you may want to consider booking an appointment with a different GP so you can get a second opinion.
Community support services
If you have mental health issues that are long-lasting or severe, it is best to speak with your doctor, who will put you in touch with a specialist mental health service provider. Some examples of specialists that may be able to assist you include home treatment teams, also known as crisis teams or CRHTs, as well as crisis resolution experts, residential care services, social care services, and community mental health teams (CMHTs).
Remember, there are no overnight cures
It can be incredibly difficult if you feel like you are trying and nothing is working, but keep trying. Situations like this require continual work and effort; there is no magic overnight fix here. Some of the things you can do include talking with people who understand, exploring alternatives, and developing your coping techniques. You should also learn about your rights and find an advocate who can help you in terms of expressing your wishes and views, as well as getting the support and help that you deserve.
There is little getting away from the fact that getting help is incredibly difficult to do. It can be so hard to open up and speak with someone about the issues you are encountering. However, once you do so, you will find that it is the best thing that you can do. The road ahead will not be easy, but it will certainly be worth it. You can get your life back. Whether you are battling alcohol addiction or you are struggling with crippling anxiety, speaking with someone and getting the help that you require is the best thing that you can possibly do for yourself.
