There are many people with mental health concerns that have not been medically diagnosed with mental illness, and go for years without an evaluation or treatment.  They suffer needlessly when there is a vast array of available help now afforded them.

Mental illness has always had a certain stigma attached to it.  However, mental health is not something to take lightly.  If untreated, mental illness can lead to severe emotional and physical pain; psychosis and even suicide.

Whether it’s a continued foul mood, an abiding sadness, or depression, there are benefits to seeking mental health counseling.  Seeking help does not mean that you are crazy or that there is something wrong with you.  It just simply means that you realize that you cannot do this on your own, and need someone that can be personally and professionally unbiased, and give you the extra help that you may need to get over that hurdle or bump in the road.

Many have tried to go it alone, but seeking the help of a professional may be the very best help you can ever give yourself, or the person that you love that has been suffering.  Mental health counselors address and treat mental and emotional disorders, and work to promote mental health in all of their clients.

There are many mental health professionals, but an evaluation can be done by the family practitioner.  After the initial evaluation, the doctor will determine if there needs to be further evaluation by a psychiatrist or psychologist.  Depending upon the evaluation, the physician may also write a prescription themselves.

When it comes to people with mental illness, many misjudge what mental illness is.  Contrary to many beliefs, mental illness is not just someone who has had a psychotic /nervous breakdown.  Mental illness can affect anyone: Parents, children, co-workers, employers, professionals, athletes.  Mental health is something everyone should be concerned with. 

The best thing to know about mental health counseling is that there is someone for everyone.  Whether you are suffering from depression, an addiction, an eating disorder, or just need someone to vent to; there is someone in mental health counseling that can help you. Mental health counselors are in an array of areas, and work with individuals, families, and groups.  They work with schools, and offer grief counseling. 

Mental health counselors are not necessarily psychiatrists, or psychologists, but they do work closely with them, as with clinical social workers, school counselors and psychiatric nurses.  If you are suffering from a trauma, suicidal impulses, stress, low self-esteem; mental health counselors are trained in therapeutic techniques that can help you address these serious issues.  They may also aid you in educational and career decisions, in addition to mental, emotional health and relationship issues.

People with mental illness need help.  Most times, families, spouses, co-workers recognize the signs first.  Mental illness can be a subtle or even an overt change in behavior, lifestyle, and moods.  In children it can be seen as rebellion, or outbursts.  Depression is a form of mental illness; a sadness that a person may not be able to shake.

If you are in need of help; you do not have to suffer or go it alone. There is no need to be ashamed of mental illness. It can happen to anyone at any time for various reasons.  There are many benefits to seeking mental health counseling; to reaching out and getting the help that you need and deserve.

Find A Counselor: https://www.amhca.org

Signs of Mental Illness: https://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/go/information/get-info/mi-and-the-family/recognizing-warning-signs-and-how-to-cope