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Family & Care Giver Support

 

The information below is helpful whether you are a person living with mental health issues or you have a loved one who is living with mental illness.  However, we want you to know that we have a special section of our website dedicated to those who are a friend, family member or care giver for someone who has mental health issues.  Click here to visit our Family & Care Giver Support Section.

If you or someone you know may benefit from a counselor or mental health center, here are some questions and guidelines to help you find the right care.  Where you go for help will depend on if the person who needs help is an adult or child and what symptoms they are experiencing.

Of the 5.4 million people who sought mental health treatment in 1990, less than 7% required hospitalization.

Which mental health professional is right for me? There are many types of mental health professionals. Finding the right one for you may require some research. Below is a listing of types of mental health treatment professionals to help you understand the differences between the services they provide.

People with mental health conditions often find psychotherapy-or "talk therapy"-very helpful. The type and length of your therapy will depend on your personal situation and insurance, and your therapy may be part of an overall treatment plan that includes medication or other treatment options.

Health insurance is one of the best ways you can protect yourself and your family in case you get sick or injured and need medical care. It also helps you get the regular medical and dental care you need to stay healthy.

This booklet explains how to get started using your health insurance. If you have more questions, remember that you can always call your health insurance company or your medical provider directly. 

Researchers believe that the symptoms of mental illness come from chemical imbalances in a person's brain. A medication works on these imbalances to reduce your symptoms, or sometimes, to relieve them completely.  It's important to remember that medications are not cures.

While the majority of people with mental health conditions will likely not need to spend time in a hospital or treatment center, an individual may need to be hospitalized so that they can be closely monitored and accurately diagnosed, have their medications adjusted or stabilized, or be monitored during an acute episode when their mental illness temporarily worsens. Hospitalization may occur because someone decides it is the best decision for themselves, at the insistence of a family member or professional or as a result of an encounter with a first responder (emt/paramedic, police officer, etc.).

Knowing when and how to give support can be difficult to figure out. You may want to protect your family member or friend, but remember that learning to manage one's own affairs, pursue goals and become independent are important aspects of an individual's recovery from mental illness.

The following information, forms, and documents will assist your loved one to have a voice in their care and an equal opportunity in work, treatment, school, and everyday life as they live with a mental illness. As you encourage your friend or family member to use the tools below, they will become more involved in their treatment, feel more in control and become more independent.

If you are a caregiver of someone with a mental illness, it is normal to feel unprepared or confused on how to help them. Feelings of inadequacy are common but remember, you are not alone and there is always professional help available. Here are 5 tips for being an effective caregiver...

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Resources for Mental Health Support

All information is sourced via Mental Health America Website.

MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT & SERVICES

When your mental health is suffering, you naturally want to get help to make it better.  There are many different treatments and ways to support your mental health.  Many people who are diagnosed with mental illness find strength and recovery though participating in individual or group treatment.  There is no treatment that works for everyone.  It's best that you choose the treatment or combination of treatments that work best for you. Sometimes they can be hard to find or pay for, but that's why we have provided you the information below.  Someone is always there to assist you.  If you have additional questions that are not answered below, please visit our online support group and we will be sure you get the answers you need.

How to cope day-to-day

Accept your feelings: You may find yourself denying the warning signs, worrying what other people will think because of the stigma, or wondering what caused you or your loved one to become ill. These feelings are normal and common among people going through similar situations.  Get educated by reading and talking with mental health professionals.  Then, share what you have learned with others.

Handling unusual behavior:  The outward signs of mental illness are often behavioral.  These signs include being extremely quiet or withdrawn.  Conversely, people may burst into tears, have great anxiety or have outbursts of anger.  Discuss these behaviors with a mental health professional and develop a strategy for coping.

 

Establish a support network:  Seek support from friends and family members.  You can also find a support group that provides an opportunity for you to talk to other people who are experiencing the same type of problems. 

Seek counseling:  Therapy can be beneficial for both the individual with mental illness and other family members.  Be patient and talk to a few professional so you can choose the person that is right for you and your family.

Find more information on how to cope day-today here.

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