We all have our fair share of behavioral, emotional, and mental challenges. If any of the behavioral symptoms start to impact your relations, work or studies then it may be time to seek professional help from a psychiatrist. Seeking help for mental issues is very brave and not something to be ashamed of.
Why do many people who have mental health problems often not seek help? Why is it dangerous, and what consequences can it cause?
There are several reasons why most people who have mental health problems fail to seek professional treatment. Some reasons are personal while others are beyond their control. Some of these reasons include:
Self-Denial
Most people have difficulty admitting that they have mental issues and that they need help. Some don’t recognize they have mental health issues while some do but still refuse to see a psychiatrist for fear of what they may find out. Instead, they come up with other reasons to explain their behavior or justify their decision not to seek help from a professional. This is especially dangerous because some mental health issues are progressive.
Stigma
This is one of the reasons people fail to seek help for mental issues even when they need it. the fear of being seen as different. Moreover, in some cultures, mental health issues are viewed as a curse or a sign of evil. Despite increased levels of awareness around mental health issues, people with mental health issues still feel a sense of rejection based on their mental health.
Unavailability
There is still a global deficit of professional mental health services. Rural and informal settlements are the most affected with limited or no mental health care professionals to serve them. Specialized mental health services also remain out of reach for patients with complex mental health issues.
Lack of trust
The trust deficit between mental health caregivers and patients with mental issues is also another reason why people choose not to seek professional help. Remember some treatment options for mental health issues rely on verbal communication and a healthy trust relationship. If the patient does not trust the caregiver, he or she may choose not to seek help or fully open up which then affects their recovery.
Cost of treatment.
You cannot consider seeking professional help when you cannot afford it in the first place. Most health insurance carriers don’t fully cover mental health treatment. Individuals with insurance may still have to pay for mental health services out of their pockets just like those who are uninsured. This is especially expensive for treatment options like psychotherapy which take months or years.
Practical issues.
People with mental health issues are unlikely to seek professional help if the treatment eats into their daily routine or work. The fear is that they could lose their source of income if the treatment compromises their work and work relations.
Lack of faith in treatment.
People with mental health issues develop self-doubt that seeking professional help will enable them to get the much-needed relief.
When should you visit a psychiatrist?
Mental health issues are best treated when detected in the early stages. If you experience any or observe the following symptoms begin to have a significant negative impact on your life, then it may be time to see a psychiatrist.
Trouble controlling your emotions.
Emotions are what make us human and it is normal to feel anger or sadness. But if you frequently experience heightened levels or episodes of anger, irritability, or extremely low moments then you need to visit a psychiatrist.
Substance Use
Most people prefer to use different substances to escape their reality rather than confront them. A psychiatrist will not only help identify what is driving your urge to abuse substances but also help you find more sustainable solutions.
Sudden Changes in Sleep Patterns.
Lack of sleep or waking up at odd hours is often a sign of emotional distress or an underlying mental health condition. If you experience this often, seek professional help from a psychiatrist or a mental health caregiver.
Declining performance
A mental health issue is bound to affect how you perform at work or school. If you are suddenly struggling to meet your targets or meet set deadlines, you have to think of a mental health issue as a possible cause. The only way to be sure is to visit a psychiatrist for an evaluation.
Anxiety
Chronic anxiety is a major symptom of a mental health issue. Individuals experiencing anxiety should make an appointment with a psychiatrist.
Hallucinations
This is a condition where an individual perceives things not present or real. Hallucination is a common symptom of bipolar disorder, a common mental health issue. It is also common for individuals with substance abuse problems. If you experience hallucinations, a psychiatric evaluation is important to determine its cause.
How would a psychiatrist help?
If you are visiting a psychiatrist, you have probably experienced a couple of symptoms or at least have your suspicion. A psychiatrist will be helpful in:
- Diagnosing the specific mental health issue affecting you and dispelling your guesses.
- He or she can recommend the best treatment option for your mental health issue based on the diagnosis.
- He or she can refer you to other mental health specialists such as counselors or psychotherapists.
How to visit a psychiatrist?
Thanks to technological advancements, one can choose to visit a psychiatrist or make an appointment online. Telemedicine has made it possible for patients to see doctors virtually and remotely. This not only increases efficiency but makes healthcare much more affordable.
Despite all the benefits of telemedicine, the treatment of mental health disorders requires a hands-on approach. It is easier to connect to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or counselor and develop trust when you meet them face to face.
Mental health issues are treatable. How effective a treatment option is depends on the early diagnosis of the mental health issue. Early diagnosis of mental health issues also prevents the disease from progressing and causing further damage. This makes it very important that you see a psychiatrist as soon as you start experiencing any of the obvious symptoms of mental health disorders.
