The United States along with the rest of the world is currently in the midst of a mental health crisis. Millions of people around the world struggle with mental health issues and disorders, ranging from anxiety disorder or imposter syndrome to ADHD and PTSD. Fortunately, there are a variety of proven and effective treatments for those living with mental health problems. For anyone considering receiving mental health treatment, there are at least five things you should know.    

The Importance of Mental Health 

Sadly, many people as well as entire communities around the world do not fully understand the importance of having good mental health. While worries about an individual’s physical health can often take away from mental health concerns, the concerns surrounding mental wellness should still remain. Without caring for and treating one’s mental health, it can lead to a multitude of negative effects and impacts on a person’s own health, the health of others, and several other areas of an individual’s life, including their relationships, finances, occupation, and education.    

5 Things to Consider Before Mental Health Treatment 

Seeking out and receiving mental health treatment from a professional like a counselor or therapist can be extremely beneficial for anyone living with a mental health issue or anyone who just needs a person to talk to. However, mental health treatment is easier when properly understood. These are five things to consider and understand before beginning treatment:  

1. Limitations of Counselors and Therapists

Counselors and therapists are mental health professionals. They have an in-depth understanding of the human brain, emotions, and the links between thoughts, feelings, and actions. However, these experts are not miracle workers. They cannot fix a mental issue in just one talk therapy session or with prescription medication. A commitment to mental health almost always requires multiple sessions with a professional to understand what the issue is, what is causing, and how to treat it. 

2. Your Role in Treatment

Mental health counselors and therapists are some of the most helpful people for those living with mental health issues and disorders. However, they cannot do their job without the help of the patient. If one is considering mental health treatment, they must be willing to open up and share their thoughts and feelings with a counselor or therapist. If one does not, these professional cannot help.  

3. How to Pay the Bill 

Mental health treatment, like any other kind of physical treatment, almost always comes at a cost – either to an individual or their health insurance provider. Before seeking mental health treatment, it is wise to check with your health insurance on whether or not that treatment will be covered or if an individual will have to pay out of pocket. 

4. The Power Counselors and Therapists Hold

Counselors and therapists wield some significant power when it comes to mental health treatment. This is because these professionals are mandatory reporters who are responsible for the health and wellbeing of their clients. This means that some information shared in talk therapy sessions may not be privileged. 

For example, if a patient expresses a significant or planned desire to harm themselves or others, the counselor or therapist is required to take steps to prevent this from happening. This can include the counselor or therapist reaching out to law enforcement or forcing an individual to check into a mental hospital for a certain period of time.   

5. Breakthroughs Take Time

Although it is not ideal, mental health treatment takes time. Issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD cannot be cured or dealt with in a short amount of time. However, by seeking and receiving mental health treatment, many individuals often find that living with a mental health issue or disorder is much more manageable.  

Looking for Mental Health Treatment in Your Area?

If you or a loved one are in need of local mental health treatment, help is available! At Knoxville Recovery Center, our team of mental health experts provide several mental health treatments, including one-on-one talk therapy. Contact us today for more information!