A guide to seeking mental health services for the first time

During the pandemic, we have all been experiencing increased anxiety and mental health issues due to the impact of COVID-19 and preventive measures like social distancing. It is normal to feel anxious or stressed occasionally, but you should also be on the lookout for signs that help is needed. If what you are experiencing is inhibiting you from taking care of yourself, or negatively affecting your daily life, goals, health, and relationships, then consider the following steps. 

What kind of help do you need?

There are a variety of mental health services you can seek. With a therapist, you can discuss how to manage your triggers and symptoms. Primary care doctors, on the other hand, can help diagnose mental illnesses. Primary care doctors and psychiatrists can also prescribe medication.

While therapy may not be the right choice for everyone, it is generally recommended to try therapy before taking medication. Afterwards, if you feel that you want to start medication, consult a psychiatrist.

Finding the right therapist

It is crucial to find a therapist who suits your needs and preferences. Ask your potential therapists what their area of expertise is, how much experience they have, and what licenses they have. You should also talk to them about their approach towards helping their clients. Discuss how the approach helps the client, and see if it suits you. The most important part is to make sure that you feel respected and comfortable opening up to the therapist. 

Your first therapy session

Generally, during the first session, the therapist won’t ask you any complicated questions, but will definitely ask you lots of questions to get to know you. Make sure to answer the questions truthfully, because if you are not being honest about what you are struggling with then your therapist may not be able to help you as much as they can.

At the same time, remember that it is completely normal to feel uncomfortable opening up initially. It is part of your therapist’s job to find ways to make you feel comfortable discussing your feelings and struggles, so as long as you put in the effort, you will be able to work through these obstacles. Keep in mind that progress is gradual, so you may not see lots of quick progress in your first sessions. However, in the longer run, therapy can be extremely beneficial for you as it can help you figure out how to manage and improve your mental health. 

Through the entire process of seeking mental health support, remember that you are in the driver’s seat. If a particular therapist is not working for you, you should feel free to try a new therapist. Prioritize your well-being and choose what works best for you!

— Akshita Goswami