If you were to fall and break your leg, you would likely not hesitate to seek medical attention. However, we often do not extend the same grace or level of attention to our mental health. There are various reasons for this. For example, you may feel unwilling to speak up because you don’t want your friends or loved ones to worry, or because you’re concerned about the stigma surrounding mental health.
However, it’s vital that you seek help when you need it. While you may sometimes feel that way, you aren’t alone, and there are plenty of resources available to you that will help you better navigate what life throws your way.
With that in mind, here are some tips you can use to get help for your mental health.
Don’t dismiss your feelings. The first step towards seeking help is addressing that help is necessary. This can sometimes be difficult, especially if you’ve been experiencing some of the often missed signs of a mental health issue that make it harder to identify you need help. However, one of the easiest ways to achieve this goal is to stop dismissing your feelings or pushing them away.
Reach out to your doctor. Once you’ve acknowledged that you need help, it’s worthwhile to reach out to your doctor or GP. While this may seem daunting, they will be able to signpost you towards a range of support systems or discuss treatment options such as medication. They may also ensure you receive a formal diagnosis. If you’re worried about opening up about how you are feeling in person, you could book an online dr appointment.
Look into different therapies. Whether you are experiencing PTSD or anxiety, there are many different types of therapies that you may want to consider. For example, you may want to consider Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which will help you challenge negative behaviors and thoughts and channel them into something healthier and more positive.
Start exercising. Our physical health has a clear impact on mental health, meaning that exercising more often may help you to alleviate some of the symptoms you are dealing with. For example, regular exercise can reduce anxiety as working out releases “feel-good endorphins and other natural brain chemicals that enhance your sense of well-being.” It can also help boost your self-esteem and confidence, which are great ways to alleviate negative thinking.
Talk to your loved ones. Talking to your friends and family can also prove to be helpful during this time. While you should not feel pressured to open up until you are ready, these conversations often prove to be fruitful in more ways than one. For example, your loved ones may have some helpful advice that you can use to change your perspective or manage your symptoms, for example, they may be able to refer you to a therapist. However, talking openly about how you are feeling also helps by showing that you aren’t alone – even if you felt that way. There is always someone ready and willing to listen.