Seeking Help For Mental Health Concerns: A Step-By-Step Guide

Mental health is just as important as physical health. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or any other emotional challenge, asking for help is a sign of strength. Not weakness.

It can be difficult to know where to begin, so we've broken down the process into smaller steps you can take whenever you need them.

When should you ask for help?

It's time to seek help any of these symptoms last more than two weeks and/or interfere with your daily life:

• Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or irritability

• Difficulty sleeping or changes in appetite

• Trouble concentrating or completing daily tasks

• Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Steps to get help:

1. Talk to someone you trust

   - Share your feelings with a friend, family member, or trusted adult. Sometimes, simply talking to someone can provide relief and help you feel less alone

   
   

2. Reach out to a Primary Care Provider

   - Your doctor can screen for mental health concerns and refer you to specialists such as psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists, or counselors. If you already have a Primary Care appointment, don't hesitate to bring up any mental health concerns you're having at that time.

   
   

3. Contact Mental Health Professionals

   - Psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers, and licensed counselors, and therapists are trained to help with mental health issues. Many offer the option for in-person or virtual sessions so that you can work around your schedule.

   
   

4. Utilize National and Local Resources

   - If you are in immediate danger of harming yourself or someone else, or you simply need to speak to someone urgently, there are several resources available 24/7:

   
   

   1. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for 24/7 confidential support if you’re in crisis or need someone to talk to.

   2. FindTreatment.gov: Search for mental health and substance use treatment facilities in your area.

   3. 211 Helpline: Call 211 to connect with community resources for mental health, housing, or basic needs.

   4. APA List of Helplines: The American Psychological Association has compiled a list of helplines that are curated for specific callers

   5. Wake County Crisis Resources: Wake County has created a list of resources for individuals experiencing a crisis in the area.

      
      

5. Explore Support Groups

   - Peer support groups can be held in person or online, which make them an accessible option for most people. Look for support groups held by large organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), or smaller organizations like local therapy practices or churches.

   
   

Tips for the first conversation:

• Be honest about your feelings

• Write down what you want to say beforehand if you're nervous

• bring a friend or family member for support if needed

• ask questions about treatment options and next steps

Asking for help can be scary, and it takes a lot of courage to step forward. You can rest assured, though, that there are many resources and caring professionals ready to support you.

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If you are ready to speak with a counselor, and you aren't sure where to begin, WovenGrace Wellness can help. Our counselors work with individuals of many backgrounds, and they meet you where you are. Call today for a free 15 minute phone consultation.