Mental health issues are prevalent; approximately 25% of the population believes they have had a mental health problem at some point in their lives. Anyone suffering from a mental health problem can get the help they need, and most people who seek help do so successfully. However, unfortunately, some individuals are still scared to say they can’t cope or need help. They will experience unnecessarily psychological pain due to their lack of comprehension of their sickness and knowledge of the resources available to them. So, what kind of mental health services are available to people who have a mental illness?
Doctor
Your primary care physician should be contacted first. They will be able to analyze your symptoms and your physical and mental health in general, and all other relevant aspects, such as any family history of mental illness, to deliver an appropriate diagnosis because a correct diagnosis is critical. For most people, a simple visit to the doctor may be all that is required to get them on the path to recovery if the appropriate help and aid are provided.
On the other hand, your doctor may believe that you might benefit from additional mental health services, so after they have established a diagnosis, they can begin an appropriate treatment plan for you, which may involve medication and referral to other professionals or specialists. If necessary, include social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, different sorts of counselors or therapists, and so on in the mental health team.
The Mental Health Team in the Community (CMHT)
You may require specialized abilities to manage your mental illness, and because no single person can be an expert in all areas, you may be referred to a community mental health team member. The mental health team in your community is determined by where you reside. Some are affiliated with a hospital or work out of a doctor’s office, while others may have their clinic in a separate building. Psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses who may also be trained to deal with specific problems or behaviors, clinical psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers, and other therapists and counselors are among the professionals who work in these clinics.
One individual will likely be designated as your primary worker, who will communicate with you regularly and visit your home. This individual could be a social worker, a nurse, a therapist, or, more commonly, a CPN (social psychiatric nurse).
The CPN will examine your progress regularly, identify and support you in resolving any challenges, and connect you with others who can assist you. They will keep track of your medicine and any side effects and provide general assistance. They collaborate extensively with other team members to ensure that everyone is aware of any concerns or challenges that must be handled. The CMHT will also frequently keep your doctor updated on your progress, medicines, and other case-related issues.
Other professionals may be required to assist you. Suppose you have a disability, for example. In that case, an occupational therapist can help you regain some independence in your life by helping you do things for yourself and increasing your confidence in dressing, washing, and other practical skills. Many social issues, such as housing needs, financial difficulties, and possibly parenting or childcare issues, can be addressed by social workers. In a nutshell, the Community Mental Health Team helps you to get the correct kind of treatment from people who are experts in a particular field.
Hospital
You may need to stay in the hospital to recover from a very difficult episode of mental illness or if it is deemed necessary, but this is a serious decision. Hospitals can give safety and protection, and many people will go to the hospital of their own volition to seek the treatment and support they need. Nevertheless, there are mandatory admissions under the GGZ to protect the person or the environment. Being admitted to a hospital might be frightening for some individuals. Still, it’s vital to remember that a hospital stay can save a person’s life, and institutions can better deal with very severe cases of mental illness.
More assistance
As a result, family and friends can play a critical role in assisting someone with mental health issues in making progress and regaining control of their lives. They are an essential component of any support network. There are also many other agencies, support groups, and charities that help people with various mental health issues. Some will address mental health concerns by promoting community awareness. In contrast, others will be able to provide information, advice, and support to those in their families who are dealing with mental health issues. You might inquire with your doctor or a mental health expert about alternative resources in your region.