Mental Health Services

Mental Health Services

Mental health services refer to programs or facilities that offer medical, psychological, social, or other forms of assistance for people suffering from mental illness. These may include counseling, psychotherapy, medication assistance and more.

Counselors or therapists in private practice or through publicly-funded programs in your state can usually be found. Many of these initiatives provide services for low income individuals who cannot afford private therapy.

You may find a counselor or therapist at community mental health centers, hospitals, drug treatment programs, and prisons. In these places you can access counseling services as well as referrals to other low-cost programs that can meet your mental health needs.

Publicly-funded mental health services can assist you with a range of issues, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, anger management and postpartum depression. Reach out to a program in your county to learn more about its offerings and if it’s suitable for you.

Some psychiatric disorders require a combination of medications and therapy. Medication can alter brain chemicals involved in emotions and thought patterns, helping to alleviate symptoms.

Another popular type of treatment is support groups, which offer an outlet to discuss feelings with others who have had similar experiences. They may also provide advice on managing the condition and helping you feel less alone in the process.

Though most mental health care is provided by specialty practitioners, an increasing number of patients with distressing and disabling disorders are being seen in primary care settings. With better coordination between primary care and mental health sectors, better treatments may be possible for these individuals.