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Mental Health: When Should I Seek Professional Help?

Everyone experiences mental health obstacles in their lives. It is important to put your mental health first and take the time to heal from whatever you are going through, but it is also crucial to know when the right time is to seek professional help. 

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), serious mental illness is defined by someone over 18 having (within the past year) a diagnosable mental, behavior, or emotional disorder that causes serious functional impairment that substantially interferes with or limits one or more major life activities.

It is never a bad idea to talk to a professional. If you are experiencing signs of a mental illness like these below, reach out to us at Seneca Health Services for help. 

Worsening Symptoms

If you are continuously feeling down, mixed with other symptoms such as oversleeping or trouble falling asleep, feelings of sadness and hopelessness, a decrease in energy and loss of excitement in things you enjoy doing, and even weight loss, you should take these signs seriously. Don’t ignore your symptoms. Often, talking through what you’re feeling with a professional will help you realize there is hope in feeling like yourself again. 

Feeling Hopeless

If you’re feeling hopeless and unmotivated to solve your mental health obstacles, it may be a sign that your symptoms are getting worse. Feelings of hopelessness and purposelessness can lead to suicidal thoughts. So, if you are experiencing these feelings, it is time to seek professional help. 

Everyday Life is Affected 

If you are just going through the motions of your schooling, job, or general activities, or if you are unable to even perform your daily tasks due to how you’re feeling, professional help can be very beneficial. Professionals can give you an accurate diagnosis and treat you properly through therapy or medication. The general rule is if you are experiencing negative symptoms for more than two weeks, nearly every day, you should talk to a professional. 

Seeking Professional Help | Seneca Health Services

In the case of a mental health emergency, please reach out to us at Seneca Health Services. Our Crisis services are available 24/7 by contacting 888-SENECA9 (888-736-3229). We believe effective treatment differs for each individual; therefore, we personalize patient care. That is why we manage each patient’s case individually and provide support to develop the skills each person needs to manage their illness symptoms. 

If you’d like to learn more about our services, contact Seneca Health Services at 888.SENECA9 or use the link provided. We know it’s hard to take the first step –– let us help.