Mental health is of equal importance to your physical health, yet over half of Americans with severe mental illnesses do not seek treatment. Seeking mental health services can be a daunting task, but the payoffs are enormous. Finding out what kind of doctor to go to and what treatments you may need are important steps to take to begin your diagnosis and recovery.
You should not be afraid to go to your doctor with mental health concerns for fear of judgment or scrutiny. Within the last few years, great strides have been made in the fields of psychology and mental health. Doctors are now better trained and have greater knowledge of mental health treatments than ever before. They are ready to help in whatever area they can. When you have made the decision to seek mental health services in Chicago you have chosen not to suffer through your issues alone. That is the first step to recovery.
Mental health may seem like an individual issue, but it affects other areas of your health as well. For example, severe cases of depression can cause sleep deprivation, which weakens your coordination and reasoning, as well as your immune system, leaving you susceptible to a multitude of other illnesses. Ignoring your problems and attempting to handle them on your own could hurt your healing process instead of helping it.
When you have decided to seek mental health services in Chicago, time is key. Seek help as soon as you determine that you are not feeling yourself or something is wrong. The sooner that you and your doctor can come to a diagnosis, the sooner you can begin treatment through therapy, medication, or other means.
As always, the first step in any health related issue is talking to your primary care physician. They will be able to give you starting points and refer you to the doctor or psychologist who is right for you. If one is not available to you, check your job site or school. Often they will have their own counseling programs that can get you help or direct you to the services that you need. Increasing awareness of mental health issues within the last few years has made it easier than ever to find a resource that benefits you the most. Contact us, if you need mental health services.