If you break a bone, it is very obvious you need to go and see a doctor. Our body gives us physical clues we need help. However, that is not always the case with mental health. Close to 50% of adults will experience some type of mental illness during their lifespan but, often times, there are no visible signs to identify those who are struggling. So, how do you know if you or a loved one needs help?

When to get help

While signs of a mental illness may look different for each individual, the ten questions below can be a helpful place to start.

• Are you experiencing severe mood swings?
• Do you feel isolated from your family, friends and co-workers?
• Have you noticed unexplained changes in your behavior? This could be anything from a lack of interest in activities you typically enjoy to new sleeping or eating patterns.
• Are you having a difficult time focusing? Do you suddenly feel more forgetful?
• Has something traumatic recently happened to you?
• Does your life feel overwhelming?
• Are you using drugs or alcohol to help you cope with daily stresses?
• Do you have a hard time getting out of bed and struggle with your energy throughout the day?
• Do you have thoughts of not wanting to be alive and feel hopeless?
• Are you more irritable and angry than your typical self?

If you answered yes to one or more of the questions above, it could be a sign you are struggling with some type of mental illness. Our mental health is just as important as our physical health and if you are experiencing distress or simply concerned something is off, you should reach out to someone for help.

How to find help

It can sometimes be scary to ask for help and confusing to know where to go. If you do not already have an established relationship with a therapist or counselor, consider reaching out to your doctor. They can help connect you with the care you need.

Another great place to start is by calling Jackson House at 619-303-0933 or the 24 hours crisis line at Alvarado Parkway Institute at 619-333-7050. An experienced counselor is always available to take your call, listen to you and refer to you someone who can help. In the event of an emergency please call 911.

Your health insurance company can also connect you to providers who are close to you and who are covered under your plan. Simply call the hotline number listed on your insurance card.

Types of treatment

There are many different treatment options and levels of care to address your mental health needs. For treatment to be effective, it is important you find the right fit for your individual needs. Here is a brief overview of the treatment options available to you.

Outpatient Mental Health Treatment

If you feel like you have mild symptoms of a mental illness or you simply want ongoing help managing your mental health, outpatient treatment may be a good place for you to start. In this treatment option, you visit with a therapist or go to a treatment center regularly for help. You work with your mental health professional to set a schedule that makes sense for you and you can adjust your treatment plan based upon what is currently happening in your life.

Residential Treatment

Residential treatment provides you with a supportive, home-like environment to focus on your mental health. In this setting, you have access to treatment 24/7 but you still have the freedom to make some of your own decisions and to care for yourself. Jackson House is a residential treatment facility. We offer our clients individual counseling, group therapy, assistance managing their medications and life skills training. We help you learn to manage your mental illness and prepare you to more easily manage whatever life has in store.

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment provides individuals with around the clock supervised care, often times in a locked treatment facility or hospital. This is the most intensive form of treatment and can be a good option if you are experiencing a severe mental health issue, are currently a harm to yourself or others or have lost the ability to take care of yourself. The doctors and team at an inpatient treatment center can provide you with emergency care and help to stabilize your symptoms. Once you start to feel better, often individuals will continue their treatment at a lower level of care.

Feel better

A mental illness can take a serious toll on your health, relationships and career. If you feel like you may be struggling with a mental illness, do not wait until your problems become insurmountable to reach out for help.

Just like cancer or pneumonia, a mental illness is a disease and it can be treated by a mental health professional. You do not need to suffer. Treatment can help you find happiness, feel fulfilled and prepare you to take on life’s daily challenges. We hope you take whatever steps you need to feel your best.