From Mindfulness to Therapy: 7 Essential Tips for Finding the Right Mental Health Support

1. Start by Assessing Your Needs

The first step in finding the right mental health support is to assess your needs. An essential step towards mental wellbeing is to identify which difficult feelings you're struggling with and what kind of support would be most helpful for you.

Some people may benefit from therapy or counseling to help manage stress, while others may benefit from joining a support group or online community. Others may find that self-care practices, such as meditation or exercise, are helpful for improving their mental health.

Take time to reflect on your needs and preferences before searching for mental health support.

2. Talk to Your Doctor

Your doctor can be an excellent resource for finding mental health support. They can refer you to therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists in your area. They may also be able to recommend support groups or other resources that could be helpful for you.

Communicating openly with your doctor about your mental health concerns and working with them to develop a treatment plan that suits your needs is essential.

3. Consider Online Resources

Online mental health resources, such as apps, websites, and online communities, can be especially helpful for people living in remote areas or accessing traditional in-person support.

Online resources like BetterHelp.com offer virtual sessions for people seeking mental health tips and support. The best part about BetterHelp is that they match you with a Licensed therapist, and you can switch therapists easily until you find one that matches your needs. Depending on your income level, you may even qualify for a discounted rate. Use this link to learn more and get the mental health support you need today.

However, it's crucial to do your research and choose reputable sources. Look for websites or apps like BetterHelp.com with mental health tips that have been developed by mental health professionals or reviewed by experts in the field. Ensure the online resource aligns with your treatment needs, and be cautious of self-diagnosing.

4. Ask for Referrals

If you have friends, family members, or someone else who has gone through similar experiences, don't be afraid to talk to someone and ask for referrals. They may be able to recommend a therapist, support group, or other helpful resources.

Also, if you are a college student, then your university should offer mental health counseling services at no cost to you. The best way to find out what is available is to search your school's website for student resources.

If you're currently seeing a therapist or counselor and are looking for additional support, don't hesitate to ask them for referrals. They may be able to connect you with other professionals or resources that could be helpful for you.

5. Try Different Approaches

Finding the right mental health support can be a trial-and-error process. It's essential to be open-minded and willing to try different approaches until you find what works best for you.

Don't hesitate to communicate with your mental health provider about what's working and what's not. 

Effective communication ensures you receive the right treatment plan for your needs.

For example, if virtual therapy sessions do not work for you, then maybe face-to-face sessions might serve you better. The truth is people manage stress in various ways, and there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to getting the mental health support that you need.

At the end of the day, you get to decide what is best for you. Do not leave the fate of your health and well-being in the hands of someone else.

6. Consider Cost and Insurance Coverage

Cost can be a significant barrier to accessing mental health support for many people. Before you start your search, consider your budget and what you can afford. If you have insurance, make sure to check what mental health services are covered.

Many insurance plans cover therapy and counseling, but not all plans are identical. If you're struggling to find affordable mental health support, consider looking for sliding-scale options or low-cost clinics in your area.

Best Ways To Get Affordable Mental Health Support:

There are several ways to get mental health support if you do not have much income, including:

• Community Mental Health Centers: Many cities and towns have community mental health centers that offer low-cost or free mental health services to individuals who cannot afford to pay for therapy. These centers may offer individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and other mental health services.
• Sliding Scale Therapy: Some therapists offer a sliding scale fee structure based on your income level. This means that you pay what you can afford, and the therapist adjusts their fees accordingly. You can search for therapists who offer sliding scale fees on websites such as Open Path Collective and TherapyDen.
• Online Therapy: Online therapy services such as BetterHelp and Talkspace offer affordable therapy sessions with licensed therapists. These services may also offer financial assistance or sliding scale fees for those who cannot afford their regular rates.
• Support Groups: Many support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, are free to attend and provide a supportive community for individuals struggling with substance abuse and other mental health issues.
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Many employers offer EAPs, which provide free or low-cost mental health services to their employees and their families. Check with your employer to see if they offer this service.
• Non-profit Organizations: Some non-profit organizations provide free mental health services to individuals in need. You can search for these organizations in your area and see if they offer mental health support.
• Online Resources: There are many online resources for mental health support, such as self-help websites, chat rooms, and online forums. These resources may not be a substitute for professional therapy, but they can provide valuable support and guidance for individuals in need.

It's important to note that mental health support is crucial for everyone, regardless of income level. If you are struggling with mental health issues and cannot afford professional help, don't hesitate to contact any of the above resources for support.

7. Remember to Advocate for Yourself

It's essential to advocate for yourself regarding mental health support. Don't be afraid to speak up for yourself and ask for your support. If you feel worse after working with a particular mental health professional, feel free to seek a second opinion or find a new provider.

You deserve a provider who listens to your needs and supports your mental health journey. Remember that seeking mental health support is a sign of strength, not weakness. It takes courage to acknowledge that you need help and to take steps to improve your mental health.

Other Essential Mental Health Tips For Reducing Mental Illness

In addition to seeking professional help and support, you can do many other things to your mental wellbeing and promote good mental health. Here are some ideas to consider:

1. Get Enough Sleep

Getting a good night's sleep is essential for both physical and mental health. Research shows that people who get enough sleep are less likely to experience depression, anxiety, stress, and other mental health issues.

If you have trouble falling asleep or need to fall asleep more quickly, try to relax by practicing good sleep hygiene. This includes setting a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine. Avoiding blue light right before might also help you fall asleep faster.

2. Eat a Balanced Diet

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is essential to feel good for both physical and mental health. Make sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

Avoid processed foods and foods high in sugar, which can cause mood swings and energy crashes. Instead, eat healthy and focus on whole foods that nourish your body and brain.

3. Exercise Regularly for Better Physical Health

Regular exercise is an excellent way to boost your mood, reduce stress, and promote better mental health. Research shows that exercise can be just as effective as medication for treating depression and anxiety.

Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This could include activities such as walking, running, swimming, or dancing.

4. Learn New Skills

Learning new skills can be an excellent way to boost your confidence and improve your mental health. Consider taking a class or workshop on something that interests you, such as painting, cooking, or playing an instrument.

Learning new life skills can also help you connect with others who share your interests, which can benefit your social and emotional health.

5. Volunteer Work

Volunteering is a great way to give back to your family member community and promote good mental health. Helping others can boost your sense of purpose and self-esteem, reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, and improve your relationships and overall well-being.

Consider volunteering at a local charity or community organization or helping out at a school or community center.

6. Connect with Others

Connecting with others is essential for good mental health and professional fitness. Make time to either spend time with friends and family members or consider joining a club or group that interests you.

Having a full family member or support system can help you manage stress, reduce negative thoughts and feelings, and feel more connected to the world around you.

7. Practice Relaxation Techniques

Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga, can help reduce stress and promote good mental health. These practices can help you stay present in the present moment more, reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, and boost your energy levels and overall sense of well-being.

Consider trying a relaxation app, taking a yoga class, or practicing deep breathing exercises when you feel stressed or overwhelmed.