🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 111 (from laksa036)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa111.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://mhanational.org/finding-help/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://mhanational.org/finding-help/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/mhanational.org\/finding-help\/","crawl_time":1775981177,"first_indexed_time":1741761237,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,mhanational!\/finding-help\/ s443","src_root_hash":"17583339692893106511","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Finding Help | Mental Health America","meta_descriptions":[],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"When your mental health is off, you want to get help to make it better. Fortunately, there are a wide range of treatments and supports. Unfortunately, they can be hard to find or pay for. We’re here to help.\nWhen your mental health is off, you want to get help to make it better. Fortunately, there are a wide range of treatments and supports. Unfortunately, they can be hard to find or pay for. We’re here to help.\nMental health disorders are real, common and often treatable. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 5 American adults1 (nearly 44 million people) and 13-20% of children2 living in the United States will experience a diagnosable mental health disorder in a given year. The following are signs that your loved one may want to speak to a medical or mental health professional.\nWhere to go for help\nWhere you go for help will depend on who has the problem (an adult or child) and the nature of the problem and\/or symptoms. Often, the best place to start is your local mental health organization. Visit our “Affiliate Finder” to search for a local affiliate. Your primary care doctor is also a good person to talk to if you think you may need to see somebody about your mental health, and can usually give you the name of a psychologist or psychiatrist to contact.\nFirst steps to finding help\nYou can get referrals from your family doctor, clergy or local Mental Health America office (which also may provide mental health care services) and crisis centers. Consider getting a few names, so you can interview more than one person before choosing.\nYour insurance company can provide a list of providers who are in your plan.\nEligible veterans can get care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information, go to www.va.gov\/health or call 1-877-222-8387. If you already have benefits through the VA, visit http:\/\/www.va.gov\/directory to find your nearest facility.\nYou can find affordable mental health services through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Visit http:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/treatment or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).\nYour local health department’s mental health division or community mental health center provides free or low-cost treatment and services on a sliding scale. These services are state funded and are obligated to first serve individuals who meet “priority population criteria” as defined by the state Mental Health Department.\nYour company’s employee assistance program (EAP) can issue a referral to a provider. Reach out to your Human Resources office to get more information about your company’s EAP.\nMedicare offers a list of participating doctors on its website, http:\/\/www.medicare.gov. (Click on “Find doctors & other health professionals”).\nProviders who accept Medicaid may be listed by your state Medicaid office, which you can find by clicking on the name of your state at http:\/\/www.benefits.gov\/benefits\/browse-by-category\/category\/MED.\nWhere can I go for help?\nWhere you go for help will depend on who has the problem (an adult or child) and the nature of the problem and\/or symptoms. Often, the best place to start is your local Mental Health Association.\nOther suggested resources:\nYour local health department’s Mental Health Division. These services are state funded and are obligated to first serve individuals who meet “priority population criteria” as defined by the state Mental Health Department. There may be waiting lists and not all individuals may be eligible for services. In some jurisdictions local funding is provided for additional services.\nOther mental health organizations\nFamily physician\nClergyperson\nFamily services agencies, such as Catholic Charities, Family Services, or Jewish Social Services\nEducational consultants or school counselors\nMarriage and family counselors\nChild guidance counselors\nPsychiatric hospitals accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations\nHotlines, crisis centers, and emergency rooms (call 411 for Directory Assistance)\nWhich mental health professional is right for me?\nPsychiatrist:\n A medical doctor with special training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional illnesses. Like other doctors, psychiatrists are qualified to prescribe medication.\nChild\/Adolescent psychiatrist:\n A medical doctor specially trained in the diagnosis and treatment of emotional and behavioral problems in children.\nPsychologist:\n A professional with a doctoral degree in psychology, two years of supervised professional experience, including a year-long internship from an approved internship and is trained to make diagnoses and provide individual and group therapy.\nClinical social worker:\n A counselor with a master’s degree in social work trained to make diagnoses and provide individual and group counseling.\nLicensed professional counselor:\n A counselor with a master’s degree in psychology, counseling or a related field, trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\nMental health counselor:\n A counselor with a master’s degree and several years of supervised clinical work experience trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\nCertified alcohol and drug abuse counselor:\n A counselor with specific clinical training in alcohol and drug abuse trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\nMarital and family therapist:\n A professional with a master’s degree, with special education and training in marital and family therapy trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\nPastoral counselor:\n A member of clergy with training in clinical pastoral education trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\nWhat about support groups?\nPeer support can be an important addition to the help you receive from professional mental health providers. Many people find self-help support groups a valuable resource. These groups, led by a layperson, are designed to bring together people with similar mental health or substance abuse conditions. People with mental health conditions—who often refer to themselves as mental health consumers—have organized other types of peer supports, including drop-in centers, warmlines and training courses in wellness and recovery.\nWho should use support groups?\nSupport groups are offered as a space where individuals can come together to share their stories, experiences, and lives in a way that helps reduce isolation and loneliness. Oftentimes, we think we are struggling alone, but support groups help us see that there are others who may dealing with similar situations and who in turn can help us get better.\nSupport groups are open to anyone, but they are often focused on specific topics (i.e. depression, family, divorce, grief, etc.). So, take some time and do some research to find the right one for you and your current situation.\nFinding the right support group can be helpful. Do not be discouraged if the first support group you find doesn’t quite feel right. You should feel comfortable in the support group space that you choose, so trying different ones may help you determine the best fit.\nCan I access support groups online?\nSome organizations now offer online support groups, discussion boards, blogs, and online communities as additional ways to connect with others in similar situations. These can be helpful additions to in-person support groups and can be especially helpful if there are no groups in your area.\nWhere can I find a support group to attend locally?\nSpecialized support group resources\nAdult Children of Alcoholics\nAl-Anon\/Alateen\nAlcoholics Anonymous\nAlcoholScreening.org\nAlzheimer’s Association\nAmerican Association of Retired Persons Grief and Loss Information\nAnxiety and Depression Association of America peer-to-peer support group\nAttention Deficit Disorder Association\nAutism Society of America\nThe Balanced Mind Foundation\nBrain Injury Association of America\nCaregiver Action Network\nChildren and Adults with Attention Deficit\/Hyperactivity Disorder \n (CHADD) In addition to support groups, CHADD has a \nsection for parents\n which includes many helpful resources  (look at list of options on right-hand side of the page) and a link that explains their \nParent to Parent Family Training\n classes. For more information about these on-line training classes, review the information at the link we’ve provided or contact the CHADD national resource center at 1-800-233-4050.\nCo-Dependents Anonymous\n or sign up for their \nemail list\n. You can also visit \nhttp:\/\/www.codependents.org\/\nThe Compassionate Friends Grief Support\n: After the death of a child (Use this link to find groups in your area)\nCoSLAA\n Support groups for family and friends of people who have a sex addiction\nCrisis Text Line\nDebtors Anonymous\nDepression and Bipolar Support Alliance\nDual Diagnosis of Oregon, Inc.\n (Although based in Oregon, offer support to those in other areas who wish to establish groups to help those who have both a mental health and alcohol\/substance abuse condition)\nEmotions Anonymous\n: Modeled after the Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step program, Emotions Anonymous is open to any individual dealing with emotional difficulties.\nFederation of Families for Children’s Mental Health,\n a parent support and advocacy network\nGamblers Anonymous\nHospice Foundation of America\n (Grief and Loss section includes link to find a local hospice office using link from left-hand side of the page; many offices offer grief support groups. National hospice office can be reached by calling 1-800-868-5171.)\nInternational Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Foundation\nInternational Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation\nMale Survivor\n (Discussion board and chat room for men who have been sexually abused can be accessed from Survivors tab on left hand side of the page)\nNarcotics Anonymous\nThe National Alliance on Mental Illness\n (NAMI): A family support and advocacy organization\nNational Eating Disorders Association\nOvereaters Anonymous\n Offer in-person, telephone, and on-line meetings\nParents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays\n (PFLAG)\nPostpartum Support International\n and link to support resources in your area (National 24-hour Postpartum Depression Helpline 1.800.944.4PPD)\nS-Anon International Family Groups\n Support groups for family and friends of people who have a sex addiction\nSelf-Injury Recovery & Awareness\nSex Addicts Anonymous\n (description of organization) and find a meeting link \nhttps:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/meetings\/\nSidran Institute\n (Extensive information and resources on ptsd, dissociative disorder, trauma, and self injury; e-mail or call 1-888-825-8249 to request support group information)\nSurvivors of Incest Anonymous\n  (Use the SIA Groups and Intergroups options on the left-hand side of the home page to find meeting information)\nThe Arc\n (Support and information for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities and their families) To find a chapter near \nclick here\n.\nTourette Syndrome Association, Inc.\nTARA Association for Personality Disorder:\n National Borderline Personality Disorder Resource and Referral Center\nThe TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors\nWell Spouse Association\n Support for spousal caregivers.\nOther helpful resources\n“After An Attempt”\n A practical guide developed for individuals who have attempted suicide, their family\/friends, and for mental health professionals.\nAir Compassion for Veterans\n for injured veteran’s ongoing healing process.\nAmerican Association of Caregiving Youth\n gives support to individuals under 18 years of age who are caregivers.\nAmerican Foundation for Suicide Prevention\n has chapters around the country and offers a variety of information and support resources for those who have lost a loved one to suicide.\nARCH National Respite Network\nArmed Services YMCA\nATTACh at 866-453-8224 \n(Association for Treatment and Training in the Attachment of Children)\nBrain and Behavior Research Foundation\n (formerly known as NARSAD, has information about schizophrenia and depression for individuals and their families)\nBorderline Personality Disorder Resource Center\nCause USA\n Comfort for America’s Uniformed Services (help for those wounded in military service)\nFamilies for Depression Awareness\n (Information about depression and bipolar disorder including how to help someone who is depressed seek treatment and manage treatment, information for friends and family members about taking care of themselves, downloadable Wellness Guides, as well as free brochures including “Helping Someone Who Is Depressed”)\nGeriatric Mental Health Foundation\n offers information on caregiving, mental health topics relating to older adults, and a Depression Recovery Toolkit.\nGLBT National Help Center\n  at 1-888-843-4564 (adults) and 1-800-246-7743 (adolescents) Provides telephone and e-mail peer counseling as well as information and resources.\nHazelden\n offers a helpful question and answers section for friends and family members who care about someone who has an alcohol or substance abuse problem.\nJob Accommodation Network\n (JAN) is a service provided by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy. JAN’s mission is to facilitate the employment and retention of workers with disabilities by providing employers, employment providers, people with disabilities, their family members and other interested parties with information on job accommodations, entrepreneurship, and related subjects.\nNational Center for PTSD\n offers “Returning from the War Zone: A Guide for Families of Military Personnel”\nNational Center for Trauma Informed Care (NCTIC)\nNational Child Traumatic Stress Network\nNational Domestic Violence Hotline\n 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) and 1-800-787-3224 (TTY)\nNational Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder\n 914-835-9011\nS.A.F.E. Alternatives\n (Information and resources for help with self injury)\nSchizophrenia.com\nSelf Inflicted Violence\n (Website includes link to sample newsletter The Cutting Edge)\nSuicide Prevention Resource Center\nSurvivors Art Foundation\n (For trauma survivors)\nU.S. Vets\n (A non-profit organization that helps homeless veterans access mental health and substance abuse services along with housing and other community supports to achieve successful reintegration into the community.)\nYellow Ribbon\n offers information and resources about suicide prevention for teens, parents, and others. Has chapters in many states and some other countries as well as support resources for those who have lost a loved one to suicide.\nNational toll-free 24 hour hotlines\nChild-Help USA\n at 1-800-422-4453 (1-800-4-A-Child) Assists both child and adult survivors of abuse, including sexual abuse. The hotline, staffed by mental health professionals, also provides treatment referrals.\nBoys Town\n at 1-800-448-3000 Crisis, resource, and referral line that assists both teens and parents.\n988 Suicide & Crisis Line\n at 988 connects you with 24-hour crisis support by calling, texting, or chatting on the website.\nSAMHSA’s Treatment Locator\n at 1-800-662-4357 provides you with information about local mental health services.\nFinding other local services\nMental Health America has a nationwide network of \n140+ affiliates.\n These local and state Mental Health America affiliates develop individual programs geared toward the specific mental health needs of their communities as well as implementing our national initiatives on the state and local levels. Offices vary both in size and in the types of programs and services they offer.\nMental Health America affiliates provide:\npublic education\ninformation and referral\nsupport groups\nrehabilitation services\nsocialization and housing services to those confronting mental health problems and their loved ones\nMany also provide family advocate services to parents and children with serious emotional disturbances, mentoring relationships for adults recovering from mental illnesses, and professional education to those working in the mental health field.\nOur affiliates serve as local leaders in the support and development of consumer-run initiatives and primary prevention programs. Finally, affiliates strive to influence public policy at the local, state, and national level to assure fair and effective treatment to the millions of Americans suffering from mental disorders.\nIn addition to providing services, affiliate offices are typically an excellent resource for information about area mental health programs and services including:\ntreatment\nsupport groups\nstate and local prescription assistance\ncommunity legal and advocacy services\nother important community services\nTo find the local Mental Health America office nearest you, please use our \nAffiliate Locator.\nYou Make The Call To The Mental Health Professional...Now What Do You Do?\nSpend a few minutes talking with them on the phone, ask about their approach to working with patients, their philosophy, whether or not they have a specialty or concentration (some psychologists for instance specialize in family counseling, or child counseling, while others specialize in divorce or coping with the loss of a loved one.) If you feel comfortable talking to the counselor or doctor, the next step is to make an appointment.\nOn your first visit, the counselor or the doctor will want to get to know you and why you called him or her. The counselor will want to know: what you think the problem is, about your life, what you do, where you live, with whom you live. It is also common to be asked about your family and friends. This information helps the professional to assess your situation and develop a plan for treatment.\nIf you don’t feel comfortable with the professional after the first, or even several visits, talk about your feelings at your next meeting. Don’t be afraid to contact another counselor. Feeling comfortable with the professional you choose is very important to the success of your treatment.\nPsychotherapy\nPsychotherapy is a method of talking face-to-face with a therapist. The following are a few of the types of available therapy:\nBehavior Therapy – Includes stress management, biofeedback and relaxation training to change thinking patterns and behavior.\nPsychoanalysis – Long-term therapy meant to “uncover” unconscious motivations and early patterns to resolve issues and to become aware of how those motivations influence present actions and feelings.\nCognitive Therapy – Seeks to identify and correct thinking patterns that can lead to troublesome feelings and behavior.\nFamily Therapy – Includes discussion and problem-solving sessions with every member of the family.\nMovement\/Art\/Music Therapy – These methods include the use of movement, art or music to express emotions. Effective for persons who cannot otherwise express feelings.\nGroup Therapy – Includes a small group of people who, with the guidance of a trained therapist, discuss individual issues and help each other with problems.\nMedication therapy\nPrescription drugs can be beneficial to some people with mental or emotional disorders. If you and your doctor decide that taking medication should be a part of your recovery journey, make sure to ask about risk, possible side-effects, and interaction with certain foods, alcohol and other medications. Medication should be taken in the prescribed dosage and at prescribed intervals and should be monitored daily.\nWhile some medications (like tranquilizers used to manage acute anxiety) work almost immediately, it’s important to remember that many mental health medications take time to work and that it might be a month or two before they have their full effect. You may also find that you need to go through some trial and error before you find a medication that is the right fit for you. It can be frustrating to have to try different medications while you’re dealing with mental health symptoms, but often it’s well worth the wait. If you have depression and have tried multiple medications without finding the right one, you may want to consider \npharmacogenomic testing\n. There are also other considerations about medication therapy that may impact your treatment choices, such as cost. Generics or authorized generic medications are one way to save. \nLearn more about medications\n.\nElectric convulsive treatment (ECT)\nElectric convulsive treatment, or ECT, is used to treat some cases of major depression, delusions, and hallucinations, or life-threatening sleep and eating disorders that can not be effectively treated with drugs and\/or psychotherapy. Discuss with your physician about the risks and side effects of ECT.\nAm I getting the care I need?\nAs you progress through the therapeutic process, you should begin to feel gradual relief from your distress, to develop self assurance, and have a greater ability to make decisions and increased comfort in your relationship with others. Therapy may be painful and uncomfortable at times but episodes of discomfort occur during the most successful therapy sessions. Mental health treatment should help you cope with your feelings more effectively.\nIf you feel you are not getting results, it may be because the treatment you are receiving is not the one best suited to your specific needs. If you feel there are problems, discuss them with your therapist. A competent therapist will be eager to discuss your reactions to therapy and respond to your feeling about the process. If you are still dissatisfied, a consultation with another therapist may help you and your therapist evaluate your work together.\nLearn more about mental health\nWant more information on mental health?","attrs_markdown":"[English](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/finding-help\/ \"English\")\n\n[English](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/finding-help\/ \"English\")   [Spanish](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/es\/finding-help\/ \"Spanish\")\n\nLearn\nMain Navigation\n\nLearn\n\nExplore resources for understanding your mental health, helping loved ones, or accessing information for personal, academic, or professional purposes—all conveniently gathered in one place.\n\n[Explore resources](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/learn-about-your-mental-health\/)\n\n[Mental Health Learning Hub](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/mental-health-learning-hub\/)\nLearn\n\n[Resource center](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/resources\/)\n\n[Mental health conditions](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/conditions\/)\n\n[Quick 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Fortunately, there are a wide range of treatments and supports. Unfortunately, they can be hard to find or pay for. We’re here to help.\n\n![two people sit talking in a therapy session](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/finding-help-scaled.jpg)\n\n**When your mental health is off, you want to get help to make it better. Fortunately, there are a wide range of treatments and supports. Unfortunately, they can be hard to find or pay for. We’re here to help.**\n\nMental health disorders are real, common and often treatable. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 5 American adults1 (nearly 44 million people) and 13-20% of children2 living in the United States will experience a diagnosable mental health disorder in a given year. The following are signs that your loved one may want to speak to a medical or mental health professional.\n\n## Where to go for help\n####\nWhere you go for help will depend on who has the problem (an adult or child) and the nature of the problem and\/or symptoms. Often, the best place to start is your local mental health organization. Visit our “Affiliate Finder” to search for a local affiliate. Your primary care doctor is also a good person to talk to if you think you may need to see somebody about your mental health, and can usually give you the name of a psychologist or psychiatrist to contact.\n\nFirst steps to finding help\n\n- You can get referrals from your family doctor, clergy or local Mental Health America office (which also may provide mental health care services) and crisis centers. Consider getting a few names, so you can interview more than one person before choosing.\n- Your insurance company can provide a list of providers who are in your plan.\n- Eligible veterans can get care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information, go to www.va.gov\/health or call 1-877-222-8387. If you already have benefits through the VA, visit http:\/\/www.va.gov\/directory to find your nearest facility.\n- You can find affordable mental health services through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Visit http:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/treatment or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).\n- Your local health department’s mental health division or community mental health center provides free or low-cost treatment and services on a sliding scale. These services are state funded and are obligated to first serve individuals who meet “priority population criteria” as defined by the state Mental Health Department.\n- Your company’s employee assistance program (EAP) can issue a referral to a provider. Reach out to your Human Resources office to get more information about your company’s EAP.\n- Medicare offers a list of participating doctors on its website, http:\/\/www.medicare.gov. (Click on “Find doctors & other health professionals”).\n- Providers who accept Medicaid may be listed by your state Medicaid office, which you can find by clicking on the name of your state at http:\/\/www.benefits.gov\/benefits\/browse-by-category\/category\/MED.\n\nWhere can I go for help?\n\nWhere you go for help will depend on who has the problem (an adult or child) and the nature of the problem and\/or symptoms. Often, the best place to start is your local Mental Health Association.\n\nOther suggested resources:\n\n- Your local health department’s Mental Health Division. These services are state funded and are obligated to first serve individuals who meet “priority population criteria” as defined by the state Mental Health Department. There may be waiting lists and not all individuals may be eligible for services. In some jurisdictions local funding is provided for additional services.\n- Other mental health organizations\n- Family physician\n- Clergyperson\n- Family services agencies, such as Catholic Charities, Family Services, or Jewish Social Services\n- Educational consultants or school counselors\n- Marriage and family counselors\n- Child guidance counselors\n- Psychiatric hospitals accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations\n- Hotlines, crisis centers, and emergency rooms (call 411 for Directory Assistance)\n\n##\n####\nWhich mental health professional is right for me?\n\n**Psychiatrist:** A medical doctor with special training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional illnesses. Like other doctors, psychiatrists are qualified to prescribe medication.\n\n**Child\/Adolescent psychiatrist:** A medical doctor specially trained in the diagnosis and treatment of emotional and behavioral problems in children.\n\n**Psychologist:** A professional with a doctoral degree in psychology, two years of supervised professional experience, including a year-long internship from an approved internship and is trained to make diagnoses and provide individual and group therapy.\n\n**Clinical social worker:** A counselor with a master’s degree in social work trained to make diagnoses and provide individual and group counseling.\n\n**Licensed professional counselor:** A counselor with a master’s degree in psychology, counseling or a related field, trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\n\n**Mental health counselor:** A counselor with a master’s degree and several years of supervised clinical work experience trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\n\n**Certified alcohol and drug abuse counselor:** A counselor with specific clinical training in alcohol and drug abuse trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\n\n**Marital and family therapist:** A professional with a master’s degree, with special education and training in marital and family therapy trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\n\n**Pastoral counselor:** A member of clergy with training in clinical pastoral education trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\n\n## What about support groups?\n####\nPeer support can be an important addition to the help you receive from professional mental health providers. Many people find self-help support groups a valuable resource. These groups, led by a layperson, are designed to bring together people with similar mental health or substance abuse conditions. People with mental health conditions—who often refer to themselves as mental health consumers—have organized other types of peer supports, including drop-in centers, warmlines and training courses in wellness and recovery.\n\nWho should use support groups?\n\nSupport groups are offered as a space where individuals can come together to share their stories, experiences, and lives in a way that helps reduce isolation and loneliness. Oftentimes, we think we are struggling alone, but support groups help us see that there are others who may dealing with similar situations and who in turn can help us get better.\n\nSupport groups are open to anyone, but they are often focused on specific topics (i.e. depression, family, divorce, grief, etc.). So, take some time and do some research to find the right one for you and your current situation.\n\nFinding the right support group can be helpful. Do not be discouraged if the first support group you find doesn’t quite feel right. You should feel comfortable in the support group space that you choose, so trying different ones may help you determine the best fit.\n\nCan I access support groups online?\n\nSome organizations now offer online support groups, discussion boards, blogs, and online communities as additional ways to connect with others in similar situations. These can be helpful additions to in-person support groups and can be especially helpful if there are no groups in your area.\n\nWhere can I find a support group to attend locally?\n\nYour local [Mental Health America affiliate](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/affiliates) is an excellent resource to assist you in finding support groups in your area.\n\nSpecialized support group resources\n\n- [Adult Children of Alcoholics](http:\/\/www.adultchildren.org\/)\n- [Al-Anon\/Alateen](http:\/\/www.al-anon.org\/meetings\/meeting.html)\n- [Alcoholics Anonymous](http:\/\/www.aa.org\/pages\/en_US)\n- [AlcoholScreening.org](https:\/\/www.alcohol.org\/alcoholism\/screening-and-testing\/)\n- [Alzheimer’s Association](http:\/\/www.alz.org\/FindChapter.asp)\n- [American Association of Retired Persons Grief and Loss Information](http:\/\/www.aarp.org\/family\/lifeafterloss\/)\n- [Anxiety and Depression Association of America peer-to-peer support group](https:\/\/healthunlocked.com\/anxiety-depression-support\/about)\n- [Attention Deficit Disorder Association](https:\/\/add.org\/adhd-support-groups\/)\n- [Autism Society of America](http:\/\/www.autism-society.org\/)\n- [The Balanced Mind Foundation](http:\/\/community.dbsalliance.org\/)\n- [Brain Injury Association of America](https:\/\/www.biausa.org\/find-bia)\n- [Caregiver Action Network](http:\/\/caregiveraction.org\/)\n- [Children and Adults with Attention Deficit\/Hyperactivity Disorder](https:\/\/chadd.org\/professional-directory\/)  (CHADD) In addition to support groups, CHADD has a [section for parents](https:\/\/chadd.org\/for-parents\/overview\/) which includes many helpful resources (look at list of options on right-hand side of the page) and a link that explains their [Parent to Parent Family Training](http:\/\/www.chadd.org\/Training-Events\/Parent-to-Parent-Program.aspx) classes. For more information about these on-line training classes, review the information at the link we’ve provided or contact the CHADD national resource center at 1-800-233-4050.\n- [Co-Dependents Anonymous](https:\/\/coda.org\/) or sign up for their [email list](http:\/\/www.codependents.org\/). You can also visit <http:\/\/www.codependents.org\/>\n- [The Compassionate Friends Grief Support](https:\/\/www.compassionatefriends.org\/find-support\/chapters\/chapter-locator\/): After the death of a child (Use this link to find groups in your area)\n- [CoSLAA](http:\/\/www.coslaa.org\/meetings\/) Support groups for family and friends of people who have a sex addiction\n- [Crisis Text Line](https:\/\/www.crisistextline.org\/resources\/)\n- [Debtors Anonymous](https:\/\/debtorsanonymous.org\/meeting-info\/)\n- [Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance](http:\/\/www.dbsalliance.org\/site\/PageServer?pagename=peer_support_group_locator)\n- [Dual Diagnosis of Oregon, Inc.](http:\/\/www.ddaoforegon.com\/) (Although based in Oregon, offer support to those in other areas who wish to establish groups to help those who have both a mental health and alcohol\/substance abuse condition)\n- [Emotions Anonymous](http:\/\/emotionsanonymous.org\/): Modeled after the Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step program, Emotions Anonymous is open to any individual dealing with emotional difficulties.\n- [Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health,](http:\/\/www.ffcmh.org\/) a parent support and advocacy network\n- [Gamblers Anonymous](https:\/\/gamblersanonymous.org\/)\n- [Hospice Foundation of America](http:\/\/www.hospicefoundation.org\/) (Grief and Loss section includes link to find a local hospice office using link from left-hand side of the page; many offices offer grief support groups. National hospice office can be reached by calling 1-800-868-5171.)\n- [International Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Foundation](http:\/\/www.ocfoundation.org\/find_a_support_group.aspx)\n- [International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation](http:\/\/www.isst-d.org\/)\n- [Male Survivor](https:\/\/malesurvivor.org\/healing-resources\/) (Discussion board and chat room for men who have been sexually abused can be accessed from Survivors tab on left hand side of the page)\n- [Narcotics Anonymous](http:\/\/www.na.org\/meetingsearch\/)\n- [The National Alliance on Mental Illness](https:\/\/nami.org\/) (NAMI): A family support and advocacy organization\n- [National Eating Disorders Association](http:\/\/www.nationaleatingdisorders.org\/)\n- [Overeaters Anonymous](http:\/\/www.oa.org\/) Offer in-person, telephone, and on-line meetings\n- [Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays](http:\/\/community.pflag.org\/NETCOMMUNITY\/Page.aspx?pid=209&srcid=194) (PFLAG)\n- [Postpartum Support International](https:\/\/www.postpartum.net\/get-help\/specialized-support-resources\/) and link to support resources in your area (National 24-hour Postpartum Depression Helpline 1.800.944.4PPD)\n- [S-Anon International Family Groups](https:\/\/sanon.org\/) Support groups for family and friends of people who have a sex addiction\n- [Self-Injury Recovery & Awareness](https:\/\/www.thesira.org\/)\n- [Sex Addicts Anonymous](https:\/\/www.saa-meetings.org\/) (description of organization) and find a meeting link\n  [https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/meetings\/](https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/meetings\/)\n- [Sidran Institute](http:\/\/www.sidran.org\/) (Extensive information and resources on ptsd, dissociative disorder, trauma, and self injury; e-mail or call 1-888-825-8249 to request support group information)\n- [Survivors of Incest Anonymous](https:\/\/siawso.org\/) (Use the SIA Groups and Intergroups options on the left-hand side of the home page to find meeting information)\n- [The Arc](http:\/\/www.thearc.org\/) (Support and information for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities and their families) To find a chapter near [click here](http:\/\/www.thearc.org\/find-a-chapter).\n- [Tourette Syndrome Association, Inc.](http:\/\/www.tsa-usa.org\/)\n- [TARA Association for Personality Disorder:](http:\/\/www.tara4bpd.org\/) National Borderline Personality Disorder Resource and Referral Center\n- [The TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors](https:\/\/www.bfrb.org\/find-help-support\/find-a-support-group)\n- [Well Spouse Association](http:\/\/www.wellspouse.org\/) Support for spousal caregivers.\n\nOther helpful resources\n\n- [“After An Attempt”](https:\/\/store.samhsa.gov\/product\/A-Guide-for-Taking-Care-of-Your-Family-Member-After-Treatment-in-the-Emergency-Department\/sma18-4357eng) A practical guide developed for individuals who have attempted suicide, their family\/friends, and for mental health professionals.\n- [Air Compassion for Veterans](https:\/\/angelwingsforveterans.org\/) for injured veteran’s ongoing healing process.\n- [American Association of Caregiving Youth](https:\/\/archrespite.org\/) gives support to individuals under 18 years of age who are caregivers.\n- [American Foundation for Suicide Prevention](http:\/\/www.afsp.org\/) has chapters around the country and offers a variety of information and support resources for those who have lost a loved one to suicide.\n- [ARCH National Respite Network](https:\/\/archrespite.org\/respitelocator\/respite-locator-service-state-information-map)\n- [Armed Services YMCA](http:\/\/www.asymca.org\/)\n- [ATTACh at 866-453-8224](http:\/\/www.attach.org\/) (Association for Treatment and Training in the Attachment of Children)\n- [Brain and Behavior Research Foundation](http:\/\/bbrfoundation.org\/) (formerly known as NARSAD, has information about schizophrenia and depression for individuals and their families)\n- [Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center](http:\/\/www.bpdresourcecenter.org\/)\n- [Cause USA](http:\/\/cause-usa.org\/) Comfort for America’s Uniformed Services (help for those wounded in military service)\n- [Families for Depression Awareness](http:\/\/www.familyaware.org\/) (Information about depression and bipolar disorder including how to help someone who is depressed seek treatment and manage treatment, information for friends and family members about taking care of themselves, downloadable Wellness Guides, as well as free brochures including “Helping Someone Who Is Depressed”)\n- [Geriatric Mental Health Foundation](http:\/\/www.gmhfonline.org\/) offers information on caregiving, mental health topics relating to older adults, and a Depression Recovery Toolkit.\n- [GLBT National Help Center](http:\/\/www.glnh.org\/) at 1-888-843-4564 (adults) and 1-800-246-7743 (adolescents) Provides telephone and e-mail peer counseling as well as information and resources.\n- [Hazelden](https:\/\/www.hazeldenbettyford.org\/) offers a helpful question and answers section for friends and family members who care about someone who has an alcohol or substance abuse problem.\n- [Job Accommodation Network](http:\/\/www.jan.wvu.edu\/links\/about.htm) (JAN) is a service provided by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy. JAN’s mission is to facilitate the employment and retention of workers with disabilities by providing employers, employment providers, people with disabilities, their family members and other interested parties with information on job accommodations, entrepreneurship, and related subjects.\n- [National Center for PTSD](http:\/\/www.ptsd.va.gov\/) offers “Returning from the War Zone: A Guide for Families of Military Personnel”\n- [National Center for Trauma Informed Care (NCTIC)](http:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/nctic\/)\n- [National Child Traumatic Stress Network](http:\/\/www.nctsn.org\/)\n- [National Domestic Violence Hotline](http:\/\/www.thehotline.org\/help\/) 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) and 1-800-787-3224 (TTY)\n- [National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder](https:\/\/www.borderlinepersonalitydisorder.com\/family-connections\/) 914-835-9011\n- [S.A.F.E. Alternatives](http:\/\/www.selfinjury.com\/) (Information and resources for help with self injury)\n- [Schizophrenia.com](http:\/\/www.schizophrenia.com\/index.php)\n- [Self Inflicted Violence](https:\/\/healingselfinjury.com\/the-cutting-edge-a-newsletter-for-people-living-with-self-inflicted-violence\/) (Website includes link to sample newsletter The Cutting Edge)\n- [Suicide Prevention Resource Center](http:\/\/www.sprc.org\/)\n- [Survivors Art Foundation](http:\/\/www.survivorsartfoundation.org\/) (For trauma survivors)\n- [U.S. Vets](http:\/\/www.usvetsinc.org\/locations\/) (A non-profit organization that helps homeless veterans access mental health and substance abuse services along with housing and other community supports to achieve successful reintegration into the community.)\n- [Yellow Ribbon](http:\/\/www.yellowribbon.org\/) offers information and resources about suicide prevention for teens, parents, and others. Has chapters in many states and some other countries as well as support resources for those who have lost a loved one to suicide.\n\nNational toll-free 24 hour hotlines\n\n- [Child-Help USA](https:\/\/www.childhelp.org\/) at 1-800-422-4453 (1-800-4-A-Child) Assists both child and adult survivors of abuse, including sexual abuse. The hotline, staffed by mental health professionals, also provides treatment referrals.\n- [Boys Town](http:\/\/www.boystown.org\/hotline) at 1-800-448-3000 Crisis, resource, and referral line that assists both teens and parents.\n- [988 Suicide & Crisis Line](https:\/\/988lifeline.org\/) at 988 connects you with 24-hour crisis support by calling, texting, or chatting on the website.\n- [SAMHSA’s Treatment Locator](https:\/\/findtreatment.samhsa.gov\/) at 1-800-662-4357 provides you with information about local mental health services.\n\n##\n####\nFinding other local services\n\nMental Health America has a nationwide network of [140+ affiliates.](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/affiliates) These local and state Mental Health America affiliates develop individual programs geared toward the specific mental health needs of their communities as well as implementing our national initiatives on the state and local levels. Offices vary both in size and in the types of programs and services they offer.\n\n### Mental Health America affiliates provide:\n- public education\n- information and referral\n- support groups\n- rehabilitation services\n- socialization and housing services to those confronting mental health problems and their loved ones\n\nMany also provide family advocate services to parents and children with serious emotional disturbances, mentoring relationships for adults recovering from mental illnesses, and professional education to those working in the mental health field.\n\nOur affiliates serve as local leaders in the support and development of consumer-run initiatives and primary prevention programs. Finally, affiliates strive to influence public policy at the local, state, and national level to assure fair and effective treatment to the millions of Americans suffering from mental disorders.\n\nIn addition to providing services, affiliate offices are typically an excellent resource for information about area mental health programs and services including:\n\n- treatment\n- support groups\n- state and local prescription assistance\n- community legal and advocacy services\n- other important community services\n\nTo find the local Mental Health America office nearest you, please use our [Affiliate Locator.](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/affiliates \"find an affiliate\")\n\n## You Make The Call To The Mental Health Professional...Now What Do You Do?\n####\nSpend a few minutes talking with them on the phone, ask about their approach to working with patients, their philosophy, whether or not they have a specialty or concentration (some psychologists for instance specialize in family counseling, or child counseling, while others specialize in divorce or coping with the loss of a loved one.) If you feel comfortable talking to the counselor or doctor, the next step is to make an appointment.\n\nOn your first visit, the counselor or the doctor will want to get to know you and why you called him or her. The counselor will want to know: what you think the problem is, about your life, what you do, where you live, with whom you live. It is also common to be asked about your family and friends. This information helps the professional to assess your situation and develop a plan for treatment.\n\nIf you don’t feel comfortable with the professional after the first, or even several visits, talk about your feelings at your next meeting. Don’t be afraid to contact another counselor. Feeling comfortable with the professional you choose is very important to the success of your treatment.\n\nPsychotherapy\n\nPsychotherapy is a method of talking face-to-face with a therapist. The following are a few of the types of available therapy:\n\n- Behavior Therapy – Includes stress management, biofeedback and relaxation training to change thinking patterns and behavior.\n- Psychoanalysis – Long-term therapy meant to “uncover” unconscious motivations and early patterns to resolve issues and to become aware of how those motivations influence present actions and feelings.\n- Cognitive Therapy – Seeks to identify and correct thinking patterns that can lead to troublesome feelings and behavior.\n- Family Therapy – Includes discussion and problem-solving sessions with every member of the family.\n- Movement\/Art\/Music Therapy – These methods include the use of movement, art or music to express emotions. Effective for persons who cannot otherwise express feelings.\n- Group Therapy – Includes a small group of people who, with the guidance of a trained therapist, discuss individual issues and help each other with problems.\n\nMedication therapy\n\nPrescription drugs can be beneficial to some people with mental or emotional disorders. If you and your doctor decide that taking medication should be a part of your recovery journey, make sure to ask about risk, possible side-effects, and interaction with certain foods, alcohol and other medications. Medication should be taken in the prescribed dosage and at prescribed intervals and should be monitored daily.\n\nWhile some medications (like tranquilizers used to manage acute anxiety) work almost immediately, it’s important to remember that many mental health medications take time to work and that it might be a month or two before they have their full effect. You may also find that you need to go through some trial and error before you find a medication that is the right fit for you. It can be frustrating to have to try different medications while you’re dealing with mental health symptoms, but often it’s well worth the wait. If you have depression and have tried multiple medications without finding the right one, you may want to consider [pharmacogenomic testing](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/resources\/pharmacogenomic-testing\/). There are also other considerations about medication therapy that may impact your treatment choices, such as cost. Generics or authorized generic medications are one way to save. [Learn more about medications](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/treatment-options\/medication\/).\n\nElectric convulsive treatment (ECT)\n\nElectric convulsive treatment, or ECT, is used to treat some cases of major depression, delusions, and hallucinations, or life-threatening sleep and eating disorders that can not be effectively treated with drugs and\/or psychotherapy. Discuss with your physician about the risks and side effects of ECT.\n\n## Am I getting the care I need?\nAs you progress through the therapeutic process, you should begin to feel gradual relief from your distress, to develop self assurance, and have a greater ability to make decisions and increased comfort in your relationship with others. Therapy may be painful and uncomfortable at times but episodes of discomfort occur during the most successful therapy sessions. Mental health treatment should help you cope with your feelings more effectively.\n\nIf you feel you are not getting results, it may be because the treatment you are receiving is not the one best suited to your specific needs. If you feel there are problems, discuss them with your therapist. A competent therapist will be eager to discuss your reactions to therapy and respond to your feeling about the process. If you are still dissatisfied, a consultation with another therapist may help you and your therapist evaluate your work together.\n\n## Learn more about mental health\nWant more information on mental health?\n\n[Visit our Mental Health Learning Hub](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/mental-health-learning-hub\/)\n\n## Subscribe to our newsletter\n\"\\*\" indicates required fields\n\n[Mental Health America](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/)\n\n500 Montgomery Street, Suite 820  \n Alexandria, VA. 22314\n\nPhone (703) 684.7722  \n Toll Free (800)969.6642  \n Fax (703) 684.5968\n\n![Charity Navigator 4-star logo](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/charity-navigator.png)![Charity Watch Top Rated logo](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/charity-watch.png)![Candid Platinum Transparency logo](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/candid-seal-platinum-2025.png)\n\n©2026 Mental Health America is a tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. All rights reserved.   \n   \n This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/policies.google.com\/privacy) and [Terms of Service](https:\/\/policies.google.com\/terms) apply.\n\nQuick links\n\n- [Contact](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/contact\/)\n- [Donate](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/donate\/)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/careers\/)\n- [Financials](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/financials\/)\n- [In the news](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/news\/)\n\nLearn\n\n- [Mental health learning hub](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/mental-health-learning-hub\/)\n- [Blog](http:\/\/mhanational.org\/blog)\n- [Workplace learning hub](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/workplace\/)\n- [Research & reports](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/research-and-reports\/)\n- [Clinical trial resources](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/clinical-trial-resources\/)\n\nGet involved\n\n- [Advocacy & policy](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/advocacy-policy\/)\n- [Youth leadership](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/youth-leadership\/)\n- [Partner with us](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/partner-with-us\/)\n- [Fundraise with us](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/fundraise-with-us\/)\n- [Events](http:\/\/mhanational.org\/calendar)\n\nGet help\n\n- [Call or text 988](tel:988)\n- [Crisis services](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/crisis-services\/)\n- [Take a mental health test](http:\/\/screening.mhanational.org\/screening-tools\/)\n- [Explore treatment options](http:\/\/mhanational.org\/treatment-options)\n- [Find local support](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/affiliates)\n\n500 Montgomery Street, Suite 820  \n Alexandria, VA. 22314\n\nPhone (703) 684.7722  \n Toll Free (800)969.6642  \n Fax (703) 684.5968\n\n![Charity Navigator 4-star logo](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/charity-navigator.png)![Charity Watch Top Rated logo](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/charity-watch.png)![Candid Platinum Transparency logo](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/candid-seal-platinum-2025.png)\n\n- [Privacy policy](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/privacy-policy\/)\n- [Terms of use](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/terms-use\/)\n- [Site by Great Believer](https:\/\/greatbeliever.us\/)\n\n©2026 Mental Health America is a tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. All rights reserved.   \n   \n This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/policies.google.com\/privacy) and [Terms of Service](https:\/\/policies.google.com\/terms) apply.","attrs_readable_markdown":"When your mental health is off, you want to get help to make it better. Fortunately, there are a wide range of treatments and supports. Unfortunately, they can be hard to find or pay for. We’re here to help.\n\n![two people sit talking in a therapy session](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/finding-help-scaled.jpg)\n\n**When your mental health is off, you want to get help to make it better. Fortunately, there are a wide range of treatments and supports. Unfortunately, they can be hard to find or pay for. We’re here to help.**\n\nMental health disorders are real, common and often treatable. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 5 American adults1 (nearly 44 million people) and 13-20% of children2 living in the United States will experience a diagnosable mental health disorder in a given year. The following are signs that your loved one may want to speak to a medical or mental health professional.\n\n## Where to go for help\nWhere you go for help will depend on who has the problem (an adult or child) and the nature of the problem and\/or symptoms. Often, the best place to start is your local mental health organization. Visit our “Affiliate Finder” to search for a local affiliate. Your primary care doctor is also a good person to talk to if you think you may need to see somebody about your mental health, and can usually give you the name of a psychologist or psychiatrist to contact.\n\nFirst steps to finding help\n\n- You can get referrals from your family doctor, clergy or local Mental Health America office (which also may provide mental health care services) and crisis centers. Consider getting a few names, so you can interview more than one person before choosing.\n- Your insurance company can provide a list of providers who are in your plan.\n- Eligible veterans can get care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information, go to www.va.gov\/health or call 1-877-222-8387. If you already have benefits through the VA, visit http:\/\/www.va.gov\/directory to find your nearest facility.\n- You can find affordable mental health services through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Visit http:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/treatment or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).\n- Your local health department’s mental health division or community mental health center provides free or low-cost treatment and services on a sliding scale. These services are state funded and are obligated to first serve individuals who meet “priority population criteria” as defined by the state Mental Health Department.\n- Your company’s employee assistance program (EAP) can issue a referral to a provider. Reach out to your Human Resources office to get more information about your company’s EAP.\n- Medicare offers a list of participating doctors on its website, http:\/\/www.medicare.gov. (Click on “Find doctors & other health professionals”).\n- Providers who accept Medicaid may be listed by your state Medicaid office, which you can find by clicking on the name of your state at http:\/\/www.benefits.gov\/benefits\/browse-by-category\/category\/MED.\n\nWhere can I go for help?\n\nWhere you go for help will depend on who has the problem (an adult or child) and the nature of the problem and\/or symptoms. Often, the best place to start is your local Mental Health Association.\n\nOther suggested resources:\n\n- Your local health department’s Mental Health Division. These services are state funded and are obligated to first serve individuals who meet “priority population criteria” as defined by the state Mental Health Department. There may be waiting lists and not all individuals may be eligible for services. In some jurisdictions local funding is provided for additional services.\n- Other mental health organizations\n- Family physician\n- Clergyperson\n- Family services agencies, such as Catholic Charities, Family Services, or Jewish Social Services\n- Educational consultants or school counselors\n- Marriage and family counselors\n- Child guidance counselors\n- Psychiatric hospitals accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations\n- Hotlines, crisis centers, and emergency rooms (call 411 for Directory Assistance)\n\nWhich mental health professional is right for me?\n\n**Psychiatrist:** A medical doctor with special training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional illnesses. Like other doctors, psychiatrists are qualified to prescribe medication.\n\n**Child\/Adolescent psychiatrist:** A medical doctor specially trained in the diagnosis and treatment of emotional and behavioral problems in children.\n\n**Psychologist:** A professional with a doctoral degree in psychology, two years of supervised professional experience, including a year-long internship from an approved internship and is trained to make diagnoses and provide individual and group therapy.\n\n**Clinical social worker:** A counselor with a master’s degree in social work trained to make diagnoses and provide individual and group counseling.\n\n**Licensed professional counselor:** A counselor with a master’s degree in psychology, counseling or a related field, trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\n\n**Mental health counselor:** A counselor with a master’s degree and several years of supervised clinical work experience trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\n\n**Certified alcohol and drug abuse counselor:** A counselor with specific clinical training in alcohol and drug abuse trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\n\n**Marital and family therapist:** A professional with a master’s degree, with special education and training in marital and family therapy trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\n\n**Pastoral counselor:** A member of clergy with training in clinical pastoral education trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.\n\n## What about support groups?\nPeer support can be an important addition to the help you receive from professional mental health providers. Many people find self-help support groups a valuable resource. These groups, led by a layperson, are designed to bring together people with similar mental health or substance abuse conditions. People with mental health conditions—who often refer to themselves as mental health consumers—have organized other types of peer supports, including drop-in centers, warmlines and training courses in wellness and recovery.\n\nWho should use support groups?\n\nSupport groups are offered as a space where individuals can come together to share their stories, experiences, and lives in a way that helps reduce isolation and loneliness. Oftentimes, we think we are struggling alone, but support groups help us see that there are others who may dealing with similar situations and who in turn can help us get better.\n\nSupport groups are open to anyone, but they are often focused on specific topics (i.e. depression, family, divorce, grief, etc.). So, take some time and do some research to find the right one for you and your current situation.\n\nFinding the right support group can be helpful. Do not be discouraged if the first support group you find doesn’t quite feel right. You should feel comfortable in the support group space that you choose, so trying different ones may help you determine the best fit.\n\nCan I access support groups online?\n\nSome organizations now offer online support groups, discussion boards, blogs, and online communities as additional ways to connect with others in similar situations. These can be helpful additions to in-person support groups and can be especially helpful if there are no groups in your area.\n\nWhere can I find a support group to attend locally?\n\nSpecialized support group resources\n\n- [Adult Children of Alcoholics](http:\/\/www.adultchildren.org\/)\n- [Al-Anon\/Alateen](http:\/\/www.al-anon.org\/meetings\/meeting.html)\n- [Alcoholics Anonymous](http:\/\/www.aa.org\/pages\/en_US)\n- [AlcoholScreening.org](https:\/\/www.alcohol.org\/alcoholism\/screening-and-testing\/)\n- [Alzheimer’s Association](http:\/\/www.alz.org\/FindChapter.asp)\n- [American Association of Retired Persons Grief and Loss Information](http:\/\/www.aarp.org\/family\/lifeafterloss\/)\n- [Anxiety and Depression Association of America peer-to-peer support group](https:\/\/healthunlocked.com\/anxiety-depression-support\/about)\n- [Attention Deficit Disorder Association](https:\/\/add.org\/adhd-support-groups\/)\n- [Autism Society of America](http:\/\/www.autism-society.org\/)\n- [The Balanced Mind Foundation](http:\/\/community.dbsalliance.org\/)\n- [Brain Injury Association of America](https:\/\/www.biausa.org\/find-bia)\n- [Caregiver Action Network](http:\/\/caregiveraction.org\/)\n- [Children and Adults with Attention Deficit\/Hyperactivity Disorder](https:\/\/chadd.org\/professional-directory\/)  (CHADD) In addition to support groups, CHADD has a [section for parents](https:\/\/chadd.org\/for-parents\/overview\/) which includes many helpful resources (look at list of options on right-hand side of the page) and a link that explains their [Parent to Parent Family Training](http:\/\/www.chadd.org\/Training-Events\/Parent-to-Parent-Program.aspx) classes. For more information about these on-line training classes, review the information at the link we’ve provided or contact the CHADD national resource center at 1-800-233-4050.\n- [Co-Dependents Anonymous](https:\/\/coda.org\/) or sign up for their [email list](http:\/\/www.codependents.org\/). You can also visit <http:\/\/www.codependents.org\/>\n- [The Compassionate Friends Grief Support](https:\/\/www.compassionatefriends.org\/find-support\/chapters\/chapter-locator\/): After the death of a child (Use this link to find groups in your area)\n- [CoSLAA](http:\/\/www.coslaa.org\/meetings\/) Support groups for family and friends of people who have a sex addiction\n- [Crisis Text Line](https:\/\/www.crisistextline.org\/resources\/)\n- [Debtors Anonymous](https:\/\/debtorsanonymous.org\/meeting-info\/)\n- [Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance](http:\/\/www.dbsalliance.org\/site\/PageServer?pagename=peer_support_group_locator)\n- [Dual Diagnosis of Oregon, Inc.](http:\/\/www.ddaoforegon.com\/) (Although based in Oregon, offer support to those in other areas who wish to establish groups to help those who have both a mental health and alcohol\/substance abuse condition)\n- [Emotions Anonymous](http:\/\/emotionsanonymous.org\/): Modeled after the Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step program, Emotions Anonymous is open to any individual dealing with emotional difficulties.\n- [Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health,](http:\/\/www.ffcmh.org\/) a parent support and advocacy network\n- [Gamblers Anonymous](https:\/\/gamblersanonymous.org\/)\n- [Hospice Foundation of America](http:\/\/www.hospicefoundation.org\/) (Grief and Loss section includes link to find a local hospice office using link from left-hand side of the page; many offices offer grief support groups. National hospice office can be reached by calling 1-800-868-5171.)\n- [International Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Foundation](http:\/\/www.ocfoundation.org\/find_a_support_group.aspx)\n- [International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation](http:\/\/www.isst-d.org\/)\n- [Male Survivor](https:\/\/malesurvivor.org\/healing-resources\/) (Discussion board and chat room for men who have been sexually abused can be accessed from Survivors tab on left hand side of the page)\n- [Narcotics Anonymous](http:\/\/www.na.org\/meetingsearch\/)\n- [The National Alliance on Mental Illness](https:\/\/nami.org\/) (NAMI): A family support and advocacy organization\n- [National Eating Disorders Association](http:\/\/www.nationaleatingdisorders.org\/)\n- [Overeaters Anonymous](http:\/\/www.oa.org\/) Offer in-person, telephone, and on-line meetings\n- [Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays](http:\/\/community.pflag.org\/NETCOMMUNITY\/Page.aspx?pid=209&srcid=194) (PFLAG)\n- [Postpartum Support International](https:\/\/www.postpartum.net\/get-help\/specialized-support-resources\/) and link to support resources in your area (National 24-hour Postpartum Depression Helpline 1.800.944.4PPD)\n- [S-Anon International Family Groups](https:\/\/sanon.org\/) Support groups for family and friends of people who have a sex addiction\n- [Self-Injury Recovery & Awareness](https:\/\/www.thesira.org\/)\n- [Sex Addicts Anonymous](https:\/\/www.saa-meetings.org\/) (description of organization) and find a meeting link\n  [https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/meetings\/](https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/meetings\/)\n- [Sidran Institute](http:\/\/www.sidran.org\/) (Extensive information and resources on ptsd, dissociative disorder, trauma, and self injury; e-mail or call 1-888-825-8249 to request support group information)\n- [Survivors of Incest Anonymous](https:\/\/siawso.org\/) (Use the SIA Groups and Intergroups options on the left-hand side of the home page to find meeting information)\n- [The Arc](http:\/\/www.thearc.org\/) (Support and information for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities and their families) To find a chapter near [click here](http:\/\/www.thearc.org\/find-a-chapter).\n- [Tourette Syndrome Association, Inc.](http:\/\/www.tsa-usa.org\/)\n- [TARA Association for Personality Disorder:](http:\/\/www.tara4bpd.org\/) National Borderline Personality Disorder Resource and Referral Center\n- [The TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors](https:\/\/www.bfrb.org\/find-help-support\/find-a-support-group)\n- [Well Spouse Association](http:\/\/www.wellspouse.org\/) Support for spousal caregivers.\n\nOther helpful resources\n\n- [“After An Attempt”](https:\/\/store.samhsa.gov\/product\/A-Guide-for-Taking-Care-of-Your-Family-Member-After-Treatment-in-the-Emergency-Department\/sma18-4357eng) A practical guide developed for individuals who have attempted suicide, their family\/friends, and for mental health professionals.\n- [Air Compassion for Veterans](https:\/\/angelwingsforveterans.org\/) for injured veteran’s ongoing healing process.\n- [American Association of Caregiving Youth](https:\/\/archrespite.org\/) gives support to individuals under 18 years of age who are caregivers.\n- [American Foundation for Suicide Prevention](http:\/\/www.afsp.org\/) has chapters around the country and offers a variety of information and support resources for those who have lost a loved one to suicide.\n- [ARCH National Respite Network](https:\/\/archrespite.org\/respitelocator\/respite-locator-service-state-information-map)\n- [Armed Services YMCA](http:\/\/www.asymca.org\/)\n- [ATTACh at 866-453-8224](http:\/\/www.attach.org\/) (Association for Treatment and Training in the Attachment of Children)\n- [Brain and Behavior Research Foundation](http:\/\/bbrfoundation.org\/) (formerly known as NARSAD, has information about schizophrenia and depression for individuals and their families)\n- [Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center](http:\/\/www.bpdresourcecenter.org\/)\n- [Cause USA](http:\/\/cause-usa.org\/) Comfort for America’s Uniformed Services (help for those wounded in military service)\n- [Families for Depression Awareness](http:\/\/www.familyaware.org\/) (Information about depression and bipolar disorder including how to help someone who is depressed seek treatment and manage treatment, information for friends and family members about taking care of themselves, downloadable Wellness Guides, as well as free brochures including “Helping Someone Who Is Depressed”)\n- [Geriatric Mental Health Foundation](http:\/\/www.gmhfonline.org\/) offers information on caregiving, mental health topics relating to older adults, and a Depression Recovery Toolkit.\n- [GLBT National Help Center](http:\/\/www.glnh.org\/) at 1-888-843-4564 (adults) and 1-800-246-7743 (adolescents) Provides telephone and e-mail peer counseling as well as information and resources.\n- [Hazelden](https:\/\/www.hazeldenbettyford.org\/) offers a helpful question and answers section for friends and family members who care about someone who has an alcohol or substance abuse problem.\n- [Job Accommodation Network](http:\/\/www.jan.wvu.edu\/links\/about.htm) (JAN) is a service provided by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy. JAN’s mission is to facilitate the employment and retention of workers with disabilities by providing employers, employment providers, people with disabilities, their family members and other interested parties with information on job accommodations, entrepreneurship, and related subjects.\n- [National Center for PTSD](http:\/\/www.ptsd.va.gov\/) offers “Returning from the War Zone: A Guide for Families of Military Personnel”\n- [National Center for Trauma Informed Care (NCTIC)](http:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/nctic\/)\n- [National Child Traumatic Stress Network](http:\/\/www.nctsn.org\/)\n- [National Domestic Violence Hotline](http:\/\/www.thehotline.org\/help\/) 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) and 1-800-787-3224 (TTY)\n- [National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder](https:\/\/www.borderlinepersonalitydisorder.com\/family-connections\/) 914-835-9011\n- [S.A.F.E. Alternatives](http:\/\/www.selfinjury.com\/) (Information and resources for help with self injury)\n- [Schizophrenia.com](http:\/\/www.schizophrenia.com\/index.php)\n- [Self Inflicted Violence](https:\/\/healingselfinjury.com\/the-cutting-edge-a-newsletter-for-people-living-with-self-inflicted-violence\/) (Website includes link to sample newsletter The Cutting Edge)\n- [Suicide Prevention Resource Center](http:\/\/www.sprc.org\/)\n- [Survivors Art Foundation](http:\/\/www.survivorsartfoundation.org\/) (For trauma survivors)\n- [U.S. Vets](http:\/\/www.usvetsinc.org\/locations\/) (A non-profit organization that helps homeless veterans access mental health and substance abuse services along with housing and other community supports to achieve successful reintegration into the community.)\n- [Yellow Ribbon](http:\/\/www.yellowribbon.org\/) offers information and resources about suicide prevention for teens, parents, and others. Has chapters in many states and some other countries as well as support resources for those who have lost a loved one to suicide.\n\nNational toll-free 24 hour hotlines\n\n- [Child-Help USA](https:\/\/www.childhelp.org\/) at 1-800-422-4453 (1-800-4-A-Child) Assists both child and adult survivors of abuse, including sexual abuse. The hotline, staffed by mental health professionals, also provides treatment referrals.\n- [Boys Town](http:\/\/www.boystown.org\/hotline) at 1-800-448-3000 Crisis, resource, and referral line that assists both teens and parents.\n- [988 Suicide & Crisis Line](https:\/\/988lifeline.org\/) at 988 connects you with 24-hour crisis support by calling, texting, or chatting on the website.\n- [SAMHSA’s Treatment Locator](https:\/\/findtreatment.samhsa.gov\/) at 1-800-662-4357 provides you with information about local mental health services.\n\nFinding other local services\n\nMental Health America has a nationwide network of [140+ affiliates.](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/affiliates) These local and state Mental Health America affiliates develop individual programs geared toward the specific mental health needs of their communities as well as implementing our national initiatives on the state and local levels. Offices vary both in size and in the types of programs and services they offer.\n\n### Mental Health America affiliates provide:\n- public education\n- information and referral\n- support groups\n- rehabilitation services\n- socialization and housing services to those confronting mental health problems and their loved ones\n\nMany also provide family advocate services to parents and children with serious emotional disturbances, mentoring relationships for adults recovering from mental illnesses, and professional education to those working in the mental health field.\n\nOur affiliates serve as local leaders in the support and development of consumer-run initiatives and primary prevention programs. Finally, affiliates strive to influence public policy at the local, state, and national level to assure fair and effective treatment to the millions of Americans suffering from mental disorders.\n\nIn addition to providing services, affiliate offices are typically an excellent resource for information about area mental health programs and services including:\n\n- treatment\n- support groups\n- state and local prescription assistance\n- community legal and advocacy services\n- other important community services\n\nTo find the local Mental Health America office nearest you, please use our [Affiliate Locator.](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/affiliates \"find an affiliate\")\n\n## You Make The Call To The Mental Health Professional...Now What Do You Do?\nSpend a few minutes talking with them on the phone, ask about their approach to working with patients, their philosophy, whether or not they have a specialty or concentration (some psychologists for instance specialize in family counseling, or child counseling, while others specialize in divorce or coping with the loss of a loved one.) If you feel comfortable talking to the counselor or doctor, the next step is to make an appointment.\n\nOn your first visit, the counselor or the doctor will want to get to know you and why you called him or her. The counselor will want to know: what you think the problem is, about your life, what you do, where you live, with whom you live. It is also common to be asked about your family and friends. This information helps the professional to assess your situation and develop a plan for treatment.\n\nIf you don’t feel comfortable with the professional after the first, or even several visits, talk about your feelings at your next meeting. Don’t be afraid to contact another counselor. Feeling comfortable with the professional you choose is very important to the success of your treatment.\n\nPsychotherapy\n\nPsychotherapy is a method of talking face-to-face with a therapist. The following are a few of the types of available therapy:\n\n- Behavior Therapy – Includes stress management, biofeedback and relaxation training to change thinking patterns and behavior.\n- Psychoanalysis – Long-term therapy meant to “uncover” unconscious motivations and early patterns to resolve issues and to become aware of how those motivations influence present actions and feelings.\n- Cognitive Therapy – Seeks to identify and correct thinking patterns that can lead to troublesome feelings and behavior.\n- Family Therapy – Includes discussion and problem-solving sessions with every member of the family.\n- Movement\/Art\/Music Therapy – These methods include the use of movement, art or music to express emotions. Effective for persons who cannot otherwise express feelings.\n- Group Therapy – Includes a small group of people who, with the guidance of a trained therapist, discuss individual issues and help each other with problems.\n\nMedication therapy\n\nPrescription drugs can be beneficial to some people with mental or emotional disorders. If you and your doctor decide that taking medication should be a part of your recovery journey, make sure to ask about risk, possible side-effects, and interaction with certain foods, alcohol and other medications. Medication should be taken in the prescribed dosage and at prescribed intervals and should be monitored daily.\n\nWhile some medications (like tranquilizers used to manage acute anxiety) work almost immediately, it’s important to remember that many mental health medications take time to work and that it might be a month or two before they have their full effect. You may also find that you need to go through some trial and error before you find a medication that is the right fit for you. It can be frustrating to have to try different medications while you’re dealing with mental health symptoms, but often it’s well worth the wait. If you have depression and have tried multiple medications without finding the right one, you may want to consider [pharmacogenomic testing](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/resources\/pharmacogenomic-testing\/). There are also other considerations about medication therapy that may impact your treatment choices, such as cost. Generics or authorized generic medications are one way to save. [Learn more about medications](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/treatment-options\/medication\/).\n\nElectric convulsive treatment (ECT)\n\nElectric convulsive treatment, or ECT, is used to treat some cases of major depression, delusions, and hallucinations, or life-threatening sleep and eating disorders that can not be effectively treated with drugs and\/or psychotherapy. Discuss with your physician about the risks and side effects of ECT.\n\n## Am I getting the care I need?\nAs you progress through the therapeutic process, you should begin to feel gradual relief from your distress, to develop self assurance, and have a greater ability to make decisions and increased comfort in your relationship with others. Therapy may be painful and uncomfortable at times but episodes of discomfort occur during the most successful therapy sessions. Mental health treatment should help you cope with your feelings more effectively.\n\nIf you feel you are not getting results, it may be because the treatment you are receiving is not the one best suited to your specific needs. If you feel there are problems, discuss them with your therapist. A competent therapist will be eager to discuss your reactions to therapy and respond to your feeling about the process. If you are still dissatisfied, a consultation with another therapist may help you and your therapist evaluate your work together.\n\nLearn more about mental health\n\nWant more information on mental health?","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	When your mental health is off, you want to get help to make it better. Fortunately, there are a wide range of treatments and supports. Unfortunately, they can be hard to find or pay for. We’re here to help. When your mental health is off, you want to get help to make it better. Fortunately, there are a wide range of treatments and supports. Unfortunately, they can be hard to find or pay for. We’re here to help. Mental health disorders are real, common and often treatable. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 5 American adults1 (nearly 44 million people) and 13-20% of children2 living in the United States will experience a diagnosable mental health disorder in a given year. The following are signs that your loved one may want to speak to a medical or mental health professional. Where to go for help Where you go for help will depend on who has the problem (an adult or child) and the nature of the problem and/or symptoms. Often, the best place to start is your local mental health organization. Visit our “Affiliate Finder” to search for a local affiliate. Your primary care doctor is also a good person to talk to if you think you may need to see somebody about your mental health, and can usually give you the name of a psychologist or psychiatrist to contact. First steps to finding help You can get referrals from your family doctor, clergy or local Mental Health America office (which also may provide mental health care services) and crisis centers. Consider getting a few names, so you can interview more than one person before choosing. Your insurance company can provide a list of providers who are in your plan. Eligible veterans can get care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information, go to www.va.gov/health or call 1-877-222-8387. If you already have benefits through the VA, visit http://www.va.gov/directory to find your nearest facility. You can find affordable mental health services through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Visit http://www.samhsa.gov/treatment or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Your local health department’s mental health division or community mental health center provides free or low-cost treatment and services on a sliding scale. These services are state funded and are obligated to first serve individuals who meet “priority population criteria” as defined by the state Mental Health Department. Your company’s employee assistance program (EAP) can issue a referral to a provider. Reach out to your Human Resources office to get more information about your company’s EAP. Medicare offers a list of participating doctors on its website, http://www.medicare.gov. (Click on “Find doctors & other health professionals”). Providers who accept Medicaid may be listed by your state Medicaid office, which you can find by clicking on the name of your state at http://www.benefits.gov/benefits/browse-by-category/category/MED. Where can I go for help? Where you go for help will depend on who has the problem (an adult or child) and the nature of the problem and/or symptoms. Often, the best place to start is your local Mental Health Association. Other suggested resources: Your local health department’s Mental Health Division. These services are state funded and are obligated to first serve individuals who meet “priority population criteria” as defined by the state Mental Health Department. There may be waiting lists and not all individuals may be eligible for services. In some jurisdictions local funding is provided for additional services. Other mental health organizations Family physician Clergyperson Family services agencies, such as Catholic Charities, Family Services, or Jewish Social Services Educational consultants or school counselors Marriage and family counselors Child guidance counselors Psychiatric hospitals accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations Hotlines, crisis centers, and emergency rooms (call 411 for Directory Assistance) Which mental health professional is right for me? Psychiatrist: A medical doctor with special training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional illnesses. Like other doctors, psychiatrists are qualified to prescribe medication. Child/Adolescent psychiatrist: A medical doctor specially trained in the diagnosis and treatment of emotional and behavioral problems in children. Psychologist: A professional with a doctoral degree in psychology, two years of supervised professional experience, including a year-long internship from an approved internship and is trained to make diagnoses and provide individual and group therapy. Clinical social worker: A counselor with a master’s degree in social work trained to make diagnoses and provide individual and group counseling. Licensed professional counselor: A counselor with a master’s degree in psychology, counseling or a related field, trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. Mental health counselor: A counselor with a master’s degree and several years of supervised clinical work experience trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. Certified alcohol and drug abuse counselor: A counselor with specific clinical training in alcohol and drug abuse trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. Marital and family therapist: A professional with a master’s degree, with special education and training in marital and family therapy trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. Pastoral counselor: A member of clergy with training in clinical pastoral education trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. What about support groups? Peer support can be an important addition to the help you receive from professional mental health providers. Many people find self-help support groups a valuable resource. These groups, led by a layperson, are designed to bring together people with similar mental health or substance abuse conditions. People with mental health conditions—who often refer to themselves as mental health consumers—have organized other types of peer supports, including drop-in centers, warmlines and training courses in wellness and recovery. Who should use support groups? Support groups are offered as a space where individuals can come together to share their stories, experiences, and lives in a way that helps reduce isolation and loneliness. Oftentimes, we think we are struggling alone, but support groups help us see that there are others who may dealing with similar situations and who in turn can help us get better. Support groups are open to anyone, but they are often focused on specific topics (i.e. depression, family, divorce, grief, etc.). So, take some time and do some research to find the right one for you and your current situation. Finding the right support group can be helpful. Do not be discouraged if the first support group you find doesn’t quite feel right. You should feel comfortable in the support group space that you choose, so trying different ones may help you determine the best fit. Can I access support groups online? Some organizations now offer online support groups, discussion boards, blogs, and online communities as additional ways to connect with others in similar situations. These can be helpful additions to in-person support groups and can be especially helpful if there are no groups in your area. Where can I find a support group to attend locally? Specialized support group resources Adult Children of Alcoholics Al-Anon/Alateen Alcoholics Anonymous AlcoholScreening.org Alzheimer’s Association American Association of Retired Persons Grief and Loss Information Anxiety and Depression Association of America peer-to-peer support group Attention Deficit Disorder Association Autism Society of America The Balanced Mind Foundation Brain Injury Association of America Caregiver Action Network Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) In addition to support groups, CHADD has a section for parents which includes many helpful resources (look at list of options on right-hand side of the page) and a link that explains their Parent to Parent Family Training classes. For more information about these on-line training classes, review the information at the link we’ve provided or contact the CHADD national resource center at 1-800-233-4050. Co-Dependents Anonymous or sign up for their email list . You can also visit http://www.codependents.org/ The Compassionate Friends Grief Support : After the death of a child (Use this link to find groups in your area) CoSLAA Support groups for family and friends of people who have a sex addiction Crisis Text Line Debtors Anonymous Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance Dual Diagnosis of Oregon, Inc. (Although based in Oregon, offer support to those in other areas who wish to establish groups to help those who have both a mental health and alcohol/substance abuse condition) Emotions Anonymous : Modeled after the Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step program, Emotions Anonymous is open to any individual dealing with emotional difficulties. Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health, a parent support and advocacy network Gamblers Anonymous Hospice Foundation of America (Grief and Loss section includes link to find a local hospice office using link from left-hand side of the page; many offices offer grief support groups. National hospice office can be reached by calling 1-800-868-5171.) International Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Foundation International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation Male Survivor (Discussion board and chat room for men who have been sexually abused can be accessed from Survivors tab on left hand side of the page) Narcotics Anonymous The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): A family support and advocacy organization National Eating Disorders Association Overeaters Anonymous Offer in-person, telephone, and on-line meetings Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) Postpartum Support International and link to support resources in your area (National 24-hour Postpartum Depression Helpline 1.800.944.4PPD) S-Anon International Family Groups Support groups for family and friends of people who have a sex addiction Self-Injury Recovery & Awareness Sex Addicts Anonymous (description of organization) and find a meeting link https://saa-recovery.org/meetings/ Sidran Institute (Extensive information and resources on ptsd, dissociative disorder, trauma, and self injury; e-mail or call 1-888-825-8249 to request support group information) Survivors of Incest Anonymous (Use the SIA Groups and Intergroups options on the left-hand side of the home page to find meeting information) The Arc (Support and information for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities and their families) To find a chapter near click here . Tourette Syndrome Association, Inc. TARA Association for Personality Disorder: National Borderline Personality Disorder Resource and Referral Center The TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors Well Spouse Association Support for spousal caregivers. Other helpful resources “After An Attempt” A practical guide developed for individuals who have attempted suicide, their family/friends, and for mental health professionals. Air Compassion for Veterans for injured veteran’s ongoing healing process. American Association of Caregiving Youth gives support to individuals under 18 years of age who are caregivers. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has chapters around the country and offers a variety of information and support resources for those who have lost a loved one to suicide. ARCH National Respite Network Armed Services YMCA ATTACh at 866-453-8224 (Association for Treatment and Training in the Attachment of Children) Brain and Behavior Research Foundation (formerly known as NARSAD, has information about schizophrenia and depression for individuals and their families) Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center Cause USA Comfort for America’s Uniformed Services (help for those wounded in military service) Families for Depression Awareness (Information about depression and bipolar disorder including how to help someone who is depressed seek treatment and manage treatment, information for friends and family members about taking care of themselves, downloadable Wellness Guides, as well as free brochures including “Helping Someone Who Is Depressed”) Geriatric Mental Health Foundation offers information on caregiving, mental health topics relating to older adults, and a Depression Recovery Toolkit. GLBT National Help Center at 1-888-843-4564 (adults) and 1-800-246-7743 (adolescents) Provides telephone and e-mail peer counseling as well as information and resources. Hazelden offers a helpful question and answers section for friends and family members who care about someone who has an alcohol or substance abuse problem. Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is a service provided by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy. JAN’s mission is to facilitate the employment and retention of workers with disabilities by providing employers, employment providers, people with disabilities, their family members and other interested parties with information on job accommodations, entrepreneurship, and related subjects. National Center for PTSD offers “Returning from the War Zone: A Guide for Families of Military Personnel” National Center for Trauma Informed Care (NCTIC) National Child Traumatic Stress Network National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) and 1-800-787-3224 (TTY) National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder 914-835-9011 S.A.F.E. Alternatives (Information and resources for help with self injury) Schizophrenia.com Self Inflicted Violence (Website includes link to sample newsletter The Cutting Edge) Suicide Prevention Resource Center Survivors Art Foundation (For trauma survivors) U.S. Vets (A non-profit organization that helps homeless veterans access mental health and substance abuse services along with housing and other community supports to achieve successful reintegration into the community.) Yellow Ribbon offers information and resources about suicide prevention for teens, parents, and others. Has chapters in many states and some other countries as well as support resources for those who have lost a loved one to suicide. National toll-free 24 hour hotlines Child-Help USA at 1-800-422-4453 (1-800-4-A-Child) Assists both child and adult survivors of abuse, including sexual abuse. The hotline, staffed by mental health professionals, also provides treatment referrals. Boys Town at 1-800-448-3000 Crisis, resource, and referral line that assists both teens and parents. 988 Suicide & Crisis Line at 988 connects you with 24-hour crisis support by calling, texting, or chatting on the website. SAMHSA’s Treatment Locator at 1-800-662-4357 provides you with information about local mental health services. Finding other local services Mental Health America has a nationwide network of 140+ affiliates. These local and state Mental Health America affiliates develop individual programs geared toward the specific mental health needs of their communities as well as implementing our national initiatives on the state and local levels. Offices vary both in size and in the types of programs and services they offer. Mental Health America affiliates provide: public education information and referral support groups rehabilitation services socialization and housing services to those confronting mental health problems and their loved ones Many also provide family advocate services to parents and children with serious emotional disturbances, mentoring relationships for adults recovering from mental illnesses, and professional education to those working in the mental health field. Our affiliates serve as local leaders in the support and development of consumer-run initiatives and primary prevention programs. Finally, affiliates strive to influence public policy at the local, state, and national level to assure fair and effective treatment to the millions of Americans suffering from mental disorders. In addition to providing services, affiliate offices are typically an excellent resource for information about area mental health programs and services including: treatment support groups state and local prescription assistance community legal and advocacy services other important community services To find the local Mental Health America office nearest you, please use our Affiliate Locator. You Make The Call To The Mental Health Professional...Now What Do You Do? Spend a few minutes talking with them on the phone, ask about their approach to working with patients, their philosophy, whether or not they have a specialty or concentration (some psychologists for instance specialize in family counseling, or child counseling, while others specialize in divorce or coping with the loss of a loved one.) If you feel comfortable talking to the counselor or doctor, the next step is to make an appointment. On your first visit, the counselor or the doctor will want to get to know you and why you called him or her. The counselor will want to know: what you think the problem is, about your life, what you do, where you live, with whom you live. It is also common to be asked about your family and friends. This information helps the professional to assess your situation and develop a plan for treatment. If you don’t feel comfortable with the professional after the first, or even several visits, talk about your feelings at your next meeting. Don’t be afraid to contact another counselor. Feeling comfortable with the professional you choose is very important to the success of your treatment. Psychotherapy Psychotherapy is a method of talking face-to-face with a therapist. The following are a few of the types of available therapy: Behavior Therapy – Includes stress management, biofeedback and relaxation training to change thinking patterns and behavior. Psychoanalysis – Long-term therapy meant to “uncover” unconscious motivations and early patterns to resolve issues and to become aware of how those motivations influence present actions and feelings. Cognitive Therapy – Seeks to identify and correct thinking patterns that can lead to troublesome feelings and behavior. Family Therapy – Includes discussion and problem-solving sessions with every member of the family. Movement/Art/Music Therapy – These methods include the use of movement, art or music to express emotions. Effective for persons who cannot otherwise express feelings. Group Therapy – Includes a small group of people who, with the guidance of a trained therapist, discuss individual issues and help each other with problems. Medication therapy Prescription drugs can be beneficial to some people with mental or emotional disorders. If you and your doctor decide that taking medication should be a part of your recovery journey, make sure to ask about risk, possible side-effects, and interaction with certain foods, alcohol and other medications. Medication should be taken in the prescribed dosage and at prescribed intervals and should be monitored daily. While some medications (like tranquilizers used to manage acute anxiety) work almost immediately, it’s important to remember that many mental health medications take time to work and that it might be a month or two before they have their full effect. You may also find that you need to go through some trial and error before you find a medication that is the right fit for you. It can be frustrating to have to try different medications while you’re dealing with mental health symptoms, but often it’s well worth the wait. If you have depression and have tried multiple medications without finding the right one, you may want to consider pharmacogenomic testing . There are also other considerations about medication therapy that may impact your treatment choices, such as cost. Generics or authorized generic medications are one way to save. Learn more about medications . Electric convulsive treatment (ECT) Electric convulsive treatment, or ECT, is used to treat some cases of major depression, delusions, and hallucinations, or life-threatening sleep and eating disorders that can not be effectively treated with drugs and/or psychotherapy. Discuss with your physician about the risks and side effects of ECT. Am I getting the care I need? As you progress through the therapeutic process, you should begin to feel gradual relief from your distress, to develop self assurance, and have a greater ability to make decisions and increased comfort in your relationship with others. Therapy may be painful and uncomfortable at times but episodes of discomfort occur during the most successful therapy sessions. Mental health treatment should help you cope with your feelings more effectively. If you feel you are not getting results, it may be because the treatment you are receiving is not the one best suited to your specific needs. If you feel there are problems, discuss them with your therapist. A competent therapist will be eager to discuss your reactions to therapy and respond to your feeling about the process. If you are still dissatisfied, a consultation with another therapist may help you and your therapist evaluate your work together. Learn more about mental health Want more information on mental health?
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Fortunately, there are a wide range of treatments and supports. Unfortunately, they can be hard to find or pay for. We’re here to help. ![two people sit talking in a therapy session](https://mhanational.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/finding-help-scaled.jpg) When your mental health is off, you want to get help to make it better. Fortunately, there are a wide range of treatments and supports. Unfortunately, they can be hard to find or pay for. We’re here to help. Mental health disorders are real, common and often treatable. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 5 American adults1 (nearly 44 million people) and 13-20% of children2 living in the United States will experience a diagnosable mental health disorder in a given year. The following are signs that your loved one may want to speak to a medical or mental health professional. ## Where to go for help #### Where you go for help will depend on who has the problem (an adult or child) and the nature of the problem and/or symptoms. Often, the best place to start is your local mental health organization. Visit our “Affiliate Finder” to search for a local affiliate. Your primary care doctor is also a good person to talk to if you think you may need to see somebody about your mental health, and can usually give you the name of a psychologist or psychiatrist to contact. First steps to finding help - You can get referrals from your family doctor, clergy or local Mental Health America office (which also may provide mental health care services) and crisis centers. Consider getting a few names, so you can interview more than one person before choosing. - Your insurance company can provide a list of providers who are in your plan. - Eligible veterans can get care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information, go to www.va.gov/health or call 1-877-222-8387. If you already have benefits through the VA, visit http://www.va.gov/directory to find your nearest facility. - You can find affordable mental health services through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Visit http://www.samhsa.gov/treatment or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357). - Your local health department’s mental health division or community mental health center provides free or low-cost treatment and services on a sliding scale. These services are state funded and are obligated to first serve individuals who meet “priority population criteria” as defined by the state Mental Health Department. - Your company’s employee assistance program (EAP) can issue a referral to a provider. Reach out to your Human Resources office to get more information about your company’s EAP. - Medicare offers a list of participating doctors on its website, http://www.medicare.gov. (Click on “Find doctors & other health professionals”). - Providers who accept Medicaid may be listed by your state Medicaid office, which you can find by clicking on the name of your state at http://www.benefits.gov/benefits/browse-by-category/category/MED. Where can I go for help? Where you go for help will depend on who has the problem (an adult or child) and the nature of the problem and/or symptoms. Often, the best place to start is your local Mental Health Association. Other suggested resources: - Your local health department’s Mental Health Division. These services are state funded and are obligated to first serve individuals who meet “priority population criteria” as defined by the state Mental Health Department. There may be waiting lists and not all individuals may be eligible for services. In some jurisdictions local funding is provided for additional services. - Other mental health organizations - Family physician - Clergyperson - Family services agencies, such as Catholic Charities, Family Services, or Jewish Social Services - Educational consultants or school counselors - Marriage and family counselors - Child guidance counselors - Psychiatric hospitals accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations - Hotlines, crisis centers, and emergency rooms (call 411 for Directory Assistance) ## #### Which mental health professional is right for me? Psychiatrist: A medical doctor with special training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional illnesses. Like other doctors, psychiatrists are qualified to prescribe medication. Child/Adolescent psychiatrist: A medical doctor specially trained in the diagnosis and treatment of emotional and behavioral problems in children. Psychologist: A professional with a doctoral degree in psychology, two years of supervised professional experience, including a year-long internship from an approved internship and is trained to make diagnoses and provide individual and group therapy. Clinical social worker: A counselor with a master’s degree in social work trained to make diagnoses and provide individual and group counseling. Licensed professional counselor: A counselor with a master’s degree in psychology, counseling or a related field, trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. Mental health counselor: A counselor with a master’s degree and several years of supervised clinical work experience trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. Certified alcohol and drug abuse counselor: A counselor with specific clinical training in alcohol and drug abuse trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. Marital and family therapist: A professional with a master’s degree, with special education and training in marital and family therapy trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. Pastoral counselor: A member of clergy with training in clinical pastoral education trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. ## What about support groups? #### Peer support can be an important addition to the help you receive from professional mental health providers. Many people find self-help support groups a valuable resource. These groups, led by a layperson, are designed to bring together people with similar mental health or substance abuse conditions. People with mental health conditions—who often refer to themselves as mental health consumers—have organized other types of peer supports, including drop-in centers, warmlines and training courses in wellness and recovery. Who should use support groups? Support groups are offered as a space where individuals can come together to share their stories, experiences, and lives in a way that helps reduce isolation and loneliness. Oftentimes, we think we are struggling alone, but support groups help us see that there are others who may dealing with similar situations and who in turn can help us get better. Support groups are open to anyone, but they are often focused on specific topics (i.e. depression, family, divorce, grief, etc.). So, take some time and do some research to find the right one for you and your current situation. Finding the right support group can be helpful. Do not be discouraged if the first support group you find doesn’t quite feel right. You should feel comfortable in the support group space that you choose, so trying different ones may help you determine the best fit. Can I access support groups online? Some organizations now offer online support groups, discussion boards, blogs, and online communities as additional ways to connect with others in similar situations. These can be helpful additions to in-person support groups and can be especially helpful if there are no groups in your area. Where can I find a support group to attend locally? Your local [Mental Health America affiliate](https://mhanational.org/affiliates) is an excellent resource to assist you in finding support groups in your area. Specialized support group resources - [Adult Children of Alcoholics](http://www.adultchildren.org/) - [Al-Anon/Alateen](http://www.al-anon.org/meetings/meeting.html) - [Alcoholics Anonymous](http://www.aa.org/pages/en_US) - [AlcoholScreening.org](https://www.alcohol.org/alcoholism/screening-and-testing/) - [Alzheimer’s Association](http://www.alz.org/FindChapter.asp) - [American Association of Retired Persons Grief and Loss Information](http://www.aarp.org/family/lifeafterloss/) - [Anxiety and Depression Association of America peer-to-peer support group](https://healthunlocked.com/anxiety-depression-support/about) - [Attention Deficit Disorder Association](https://add.org/adhd-support-groups/) - [Autism Society of America](http://www.autism-society.org/) - [The Balanced Mind Foundation](http://community.dbsalliance.org/) - [Brain Injury Association of America](https://www.biausa.org/find-bia) - [Caregiver Action Network](http://caregiveraction.org/) - [Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder](https://chadd.org/professional-directory/) (CHADD) In addition to support groups, CHADD has a [section for parents](https://chadd.org/for-parents/overview/) which includes many helpful resources (look at list of options on right-hand side of the page) and a link that explains their [Parent to Parent Family Training](http://www.chadd.org/Training-Events/Parent-to-Parent-Program.aspx) classes. For more information about these on-line training classes, review the information at the link we’ve provided or contact the CHADD national resource center at 1-800-233-4050. - [Co-Dependents Anonymous](https://coda.org/) or sign up for their [email list](http://www.codependents.org/). You can also visit <http://www.codependents.org/> - [The Compassionate Friends Grief Support](https://www.compassionatefriends.org/find-support/chapters/chapter-locator/): After the death of a child (Use this link to find groups in your area) - [CoSLAA](http://www.coslaa.org/meetings/) Support groups for family and friends of people who have a sex addiction - [Crisis Text Line](https://www.crisistextline.org/resources/) - [Debtors Anonymous](https://debtorsanonymous.org/meeting-info/) - [Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance](http://www.dbsalliance.org/site/PageServer?pagename=peer_support_group_locator) - [Dual Diagnosis of Oregon, Inc.](http://www.ddaoforegon.com/) (Although based in Oregon, offer support to those in other areas who wish to establish groups to help those who have both a mental health and alcohol/substance abuse condition) - [Emotions Anonymous](http://emotionsanonymous.org/): Modeled after the Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step program, Emotions Anonymous is open to any individual dealing with emotional difficulties. - [Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health,](http://www.ffcmh.org/) a parent support and advocacy network - [Gamblers Anonymous](https://gamblersanonymous.org/) - [Hospice Foundation of America](http://www.hospicefoundation.org/) (Grief and Loss section includes link to find a local hospice office using link from left-hand side of the page; many offices offer grief support groups. National hospice office can be reached by calling 1-800-868-5171.) - [International Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Foundation](http://www.ocfoundation.org/find_a_support_group.aspx) - [International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation](http://www.isst-d.org/) - [Male Survivor](https://malesurvivor.org/healing-resources/) (Discussion board and chat room for men who have been sexually abused can be accessed from Survivors tab on left hand side of the page) - [Narcotics Anonymous](http://www.na.org/meetingsearch/) - [The National Alliance on Mental Illness](https://nami.org/) (NAMI): A family support and advocacy organization - [National Eating Disorders Association](http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/) - [Overeaters Anonymous](http://www.oa.org/) Offer in-person, telephone, and on-line meetings - [Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays](http://community.pflag.org/NETCOMMUNITY/Page.aspx?pid=209&srcid=194) (PFLAG) - [Postpartum Support International](https://www.postpartum.net/get-help/specialized-support-resources/) and link to support resources in your area (National 24-hour Postpartum Depression Helpline 1.800.944.4PPD) - [S-Anon International Family Groups](https://sanon.org/) Support groups for family and friends of people who have a sex addiction - [Self-Injury Recovery & Awareness](https://www.thesira.org/) - [Sex Addicts Anonymous](https://www.saa-meetings.org/) (description of organization) and find a meeting link [https://saa-recovery.org/meetings/](https://saa-recovery.org/meetings/) - [Sidran Institute](http://www.sidran.org/) (Extensive information and resources on ptsd, dissociative disorder, trauma, and self injury; e-mail or call 1-888-825-8249 to request support group information) - [Survivors of Incest Anonymous](https://siawso.org/) (Use the SIA Groups and Intergroups options on the left-hand side of the home page to find meeting information) - [The Arc](http://www.thearc.org/) (Support and information for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities and their families) To find a chapter near [click here](http://www.thearc.org/find-a-chapter). - [Tourette Syndrome Association, Inc.](http://www.tsa-usa.org/) - [TARA Association for Personality Disorder:](http://www.tara4bpd.org/) National Borderline Personality Disorder Resource and Referral Center - [The TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors](https://www.bfrb.org/find-help-support/find-a-support-group) - [Well Spouse Association](http://www.wellspouse.org/) Support for spousal caregivers. Other helpful resources - [“After An Attempt”](https://store.samhsa.gov/product/A-Guide-for-Taking-Care-of-Your-Family-Member-After-Treatment-in-the-Emergency-Department/sma18-4357eng) A practical guide developed for individuals who have attempted suicide, their family/friends, and for mental health professionals. - [Air Compassion for Veterans](https://angelwingsforveterans.org/) for injured veteran’s ongoing healing process. - [American Association of Caregiving Youth](https://archrespite.org/) gives support to individuals under 18 years of age who are caregivers. - [American Foundation for Suicide Prevention](http://www.afsp.org/) has chapters around the country and offers a variety of information and support resources for those who have lost a loved one to suicide. - [ARCH National Respite Network](https://archrespite.org/respitelocator/respite-locator-service-state-information-map) - [Armed Services YMCA](http://www.asymca.org/) - [ATTACh at 866-453-8224](http://www.attach.org/) (Association for Treatment and Training in the Attachment of Children) - [Brain and Behavior Research Foundation](http://bbrfoundation.org/) (formerly known as NARSAD, has information about schizophrenia and depression for individuals and their families) - [Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center](http://www.bpdresourcecenter.org/) - [Cause USA](http://cause-usa.org/) Comfort for America’s Uniformed Services (help for those wounded in military service) - [Families for Depression Awareness](http://www.familyaware.org/) (Information about depression and bipolar disorder including how to help someone who is depressed seek treatment and manage treatment, information for friends and family members about taking care of themselves, downloadable Wellness Guides, as well as free brochures including “Helping Someone Who Is Depressed”) - [Geriatric Mental Health Foundation](http://www.gmhfonline.org/) offers information on caregiving, mental health topics relating to older adults, and a Depression Recovery Toolkit. - [GLBT National Help Center](http://www.glnh.org/) at 1-888-843-4564 (adults) and 1-800-246-7743 (adolescents) Provides telephone and e-mail peer counseling as well as information and resources. - [Hazelden](https://www.hazeldenbettyford.org/) offers a helpful question and answers section for friends and family members who care about someone who has an alcohol or substance abuse problem. - [Job Accommodation Network](http://www.jan.wvu.edu/links/about.htm) (JAN) is a service provided by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy. JAN’s mission is to facilitate the employment and retention of workers with disabilities by providing employers, employment providers, people with disabilities, their family members and other interested parties with information on job accommodations, entrepreneurship, and related subjects. - [National Center for PTSD](http://www.ptsd.va.gov/) offers “Returning from the War Zone: A Guide for Families of Military Personnel” - [National Center for Trauma Informed Care (NCTIC)](http://www.samhsa.gov/nctic/) - [National Child Traumatic Stress Network](http://www.nctsn.org/) - [National Domestic Violence Hotline](http://www.thehotline.org/help/) 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) and 1-800-787-3224 (TTY) - [National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder](https://www.borderlinepersonalitydisorder.com/family-connections/) 914-835-9011 - [S.A.F.E. Alternatives](http://www.selfinjury.com/) (Information and resources for help with self injury) - [Schizophrenia.com](http://www.schizophrenia.com/index.php) - [Self Inflicted Violence](https://healingselfinjury.com/the-cutting-edge-a-newsletter-for-people-living-with-self-inflicted-violence/) (Website includes link to sample newsletter The Cutting Edge) - [Suicide Prevention Resource Center](http://www.sprc.org/) - [Survivors Art Foundation](http://www.survivorsartfoundation.org/) (For trauma survivors) - [U.S. Vets](http://www.usvetsinc.org/locations/) (A non-profit organization that helps homeless veterans access mental health and substance abuse services along with housing and other community supports to achieve successful reintegration into the community.) - [Yellow Ribbon](http://www.yellowribbon.org/) offers information and resources about suicide prevention for teens, parents, and others. Has chapters in many states and some other countries as well as support resources for those who have lost a loved one to suicide. National toll-free 24 hour hotlines - [Child-Help USA](https://www.childhelp.org/) at 1-800-422-4453 (1-800-4-A-Child) Assists both child and adult survivors of abuse, including sexual abuse. The hotline, staffed by mental health professionals, also provides treatment referrals. - [Boys Town](http://www.boystown.org/hotline) at 1-800-448-3000 Crisis, resource, and referral line that assists both teens and parents. - [988 Suicide & Crisis Line](https://988lifeline.org/) at 988 connects you with 24-hour crisis support by calling, texting, or chatting on the website. - [SAMHSA’s Treatment Locator](https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/) at 1-800-662-4357 provides you with information about local mental health services. ## #### Finding other local services Mental Health America has a nationwide network of [140+ affiliates.](https://mhanational.org/affiliates) These local and state Mental Health America affiliates develop individual programs geared toward the specific mental health needs of their communities as well as implementing our national initiatives on the state and local levels. Offices vary both in size and in the types of programs and services they offer. ### Mental Health America affiliates provide: - public education - information and referral - support groups - rehabilitation services - socialization and housing services to those confronting mental health problems and their loved ones Many also provide family advocate services to parents and children with serious emotional disturbances, mentoring relationships for adults recovering from mental illnesses, and professional education to those working in the mental health field. Our affiliates serve as local leaders in the support and development of consumer-run initiatives and primary prevention programs. Finally, affiliates strive to influence public policy at the local, state, and national level to assure fair and effective treatment to the millions of Americans suffering from mental disorders. In addition to providing services, affiliate offices are typically an excellent resource for information about area mental health programs and services including: - treatment - support groups - state and local prescription assistance - community legal and advocacy services - other important community services To find the local Mental Health America office nearest you, please use our [Affiliate Locator.](https://mhanational.org/affiliates "find an affiliate") ## You Make The Call To The Mental Health Professional...Now What Do You Do? #### Spend a few minutes talking with them on the phone, ask about their approach to working with patients, their philosophy, whether or not they have a specialty or concentration (some psychologists for instance specialize in family counseling, or child counseling, while others specialize in divorce or coping with the loss of a loved one.) If you feel comfortable talking to the counselor or doctor, the next step is to make an appointment. On your first visit, the counselor or the doctor will want to get to know you and why you called him or her. The counselor will want to know: what you think the problem is, about your life, what you do, where you live, with whom you live. It is also common to be asked about your family and friends. This information helps the professional to assess your situation and develop a plan for treatment. If you don’t feel comfortable with the professional after the first, or even several visits, talk about your feelings at your next meeting. Don’t be afraid to contact another counselor. Feeling comfortable with the professional you choose is very important to the success of your treatment. Psychotherapy Psychotherapy is a method of talking face-to-face with a therapist. The following are a few of the types of available therapy: - Behavior Therapy – Includes stress management, biofeedback and relaxation training to change thinking patterns and behavior. - Psychoanalysis – Long-term therapy meant to “uncover” unconscious motivations and early patterns to resolve issues and to become aware of how those motivations influence present actions and feelings. - Cognitive Therapy – Seeks to identify and correct thinking patterns that can lead to troublesome feelings and behavior. - Family Therapy – Includes discussion and problem-solving sessions with every member of the family. - Movement/Art/Music Therapy – These methods include the use of movement, art or music to express emotions. Effective for persons who cannot otherwise express feelings. - Group Therapy – Includes a small group of people who, with the guidance of a trained therapist, discuss individual issues and help each other with problems. Medication therapy Prescription drugs can be beneficial to some people with mental or emotional disorders. If you and your doctor decide that taking medication should be a part of your recovery journey, make sure to ask about risk, possible side-effects, and interaction with certain foods, alcohol and other medications. Medication should be taken in the prescribed dosage and at prescribed intervals and should be monitored daily. While some medications (like tranquilizers used to manage acute anxiety) work almost immediately, it’s important to remember that many mental health medications take time to work and that it might be a month or two before they have their full effect. You may also find that you need to go through some trial and error before you find a medication that is the right fit for you. It can be frustrating to have to try different medications while you’re dealing with mental health symptoms, but often it’s well worth the wait. If you have depression and have tried multiple medications without finding the right one, you may want to consider [pharmacogenomic testing](https://mhanational.org/resources/pharmacogenomic-testing/). There are also other considerations about medication therapy that may impact your treatment choices, such as cost. Generics or authorized generic medications are one way to save. [Learn more about medications](https://mhanational.org/treatment-options/medication/). Electric convulsive treatment (ECT) Electric convulsive treatment, or ECT, is used to treat some cases of major depression, delusions, and hallucinations, or life-threatening sleep and eating disorders that can not be effectively treated with drugs and/or psychotherapy. Discuss with your physician about the risks and side effects of ECT. ## Am I getting the care I need? As you progress through the therapeutic process, you should begin to feel gradual relief from your distress, to develop self assurance, and have a greater ability to make decisions and increased comfort in your relationship with others. Therapy may be painful and uncomfortable at times but episodes of discomfort occur during the most successful therapy sessions. Mental health treatment should help you cope with your feelings more effectively. If you feel you are not getting results, it may be because the treatment you are receiving is not the one best suited to your specific needs. If you feel there are problems, discuss them with your therapist. A competent therapist will be eager to discuss your reactions to therapy and respond to your feeling about the process. If you are still dissatisfied, a consultation with another therapist may help you and your therapist evaluate your work together. ## Learn more about mental health Want more information on mental health? [Visit our Mental Health Learning Hub](https://mhanational.org/mental-health-learning-hub/) ## Subscribe to our newsletter "\*" indicates required fields [Mental Health America](https://mhanational.org/) 500 Montgomery Street, Suite 820 Alexandria, VA. 22314 Phone (703) 684.7722 Toll Free (800)969.6642 Fax (703) 684.5968 ![Charity Navigator 4-star logo](https://mhanational.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/charity-navigator.png)![Charity Watch Top Rated logo](https://mhanational.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/charity-watch.png)![Candid Platinum Transparency logo](https://mhanational.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/candid-seal-platinum-2025.png) ©2026 Mental Health America is a tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. All rights reserved. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google [Privacy Policy](https://policies.google.com/privacy) and [Terms of Service](https://policies.google.com/terms) apply. 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Readable Markdown	When your mental health is off, you want to get help to make it better. Fortunately, there are a wide range of treatments and supports. Unfortunately, they can be hard to find or pay for. We’re here to help. ![two people sit talking in a therapy session](https://mhanational.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/finding-help-scaled.jpg) When your mental health is off, you want to get help to make it better. Fortunately, there are a wide range of treatments and supports. Unfortunately, they can be hard to find or pay for. We’re here to help. Mental health disorders are real, common and often treatable. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 5 American adults1 (nearly 44 million people) and 13-20% of children2 living in the United States will experience a diagnosable mental health disorder in a given year. The following are signs that your loved one may want to speak to a medical or mental health professional. ## Where to go for help Where you go for help will depend on who has the problem (an adult or child) and the nature of the problem and/or symptoms. Often, the best place to start is your local mental health organization. Visit our “Affiliate Finder” to search for a local affiliate. Your primary care doctor is also a good person to talk to if you think you may need to see somebody about your mental health, and can usually give you the name of a psychologist or psychiatrist to contact. First steps to finding help - You can get referrals from your family doctor, clergy or local Mental Health America office (which also may provide mental health care services) and crisis centers. Consider getting a few names, so you can interview more than one person before choosing. - Your insurance company can provide a list of providers who are in your plan. - Eligible veterans can get care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information, go to www.va.gov/health or call 1-877-222-8387. If you already have benefits through the VA, visit http://www.va.gov/directory to find your nearest facility. - You can find affordable mental health services through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Visit http://www.samhsa.gov/treatment or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357). - Your local health department’s mental health division or community mental health center provides free or low-cost treatment and services on a sliding scale. These services are state funded and are obligated to first serve individuals who meet “priority population criteria” as defined by the state Mental Health Department. - Your company’s employee assistance program (EAP) can issue a referral to a provider. Reach out to your Human Resources office to get more information about your company’s EAP. - Medicare offers a list of participating doctors on its website, http://www.medicare.gov. (Click on “Find doctors & other health professionals”). - Providers who accept Medicaid may be listed by your state Medicaid office, which you can find by clicking on the name of your state at http://www.benefits.gov/benefits/browse-by-category/category/MED. Where can I go for help? Where you go for help will depend on who has the problem (an adult or child) and the nature of the problem and/or symptoms. Often, the best place to start is your local Mental Health Association. Other suggested resources: - Your local health department’s Mental Health Division. These services are state funded and are obligated to first serve individuals who meet “priority population criteria” as defined by the state Mental Health Department. There may be waiting lists and not all individuals may be eligible for services. In some jurisdictions local funding is provided for additional services. - Other mental health organizations - Family physician - Clergyperson - Family services agencies, such as Catholic Charities, Family Services, or Jewish Social Services - Educational consultants or school counselors - Marriage and family counselors - Child guidance counselors - Psychiatric hospitals accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations - Hotlines, crisis centers, and emergency rooms (call 411 for Directory Assistance) Which mental health professional is right for me? Psychiatrist: A medical doctor with special training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional illnesses. Like other doctors, psychiatrists are qualified to prescribe medication. Child/Adolescent psychiatrist: A medical doctor specially trained in the diagnosis and treatment of emotional and behavioral problems in children. Psychologist: A professional with a doctoral degree in psychology, two years of supervised professional experience, including a year-long internship from an approved internship and is trained to make diagnoses and provide individual and group therapy. Clinical social worker: A counselor with a master’s degree in social work trained to make diagnoses and provide individual and group counseling. Licensed professional counselor: A counselor with a master’s degree in psychology, counseling or a related field, trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. Mental health counselor: A counselor with a master’s degree and several years of supervised clinical work experience trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. Certified alcohol and drug abuse counselor: A counselor with specific clinical training in alcohol and drug abuse trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. Marital and family therapist: A professional with a master’s degree, with special education and training in marital and family therapy trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. Pastoral counselor: A member of clergy with training in clinical pastoral education trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. ## What about support groups? Peer support can be an important addition to the help you receive from professional mental health providers. Many people find self-help support groups a valuable resource. These groups, led by a layperson, are designed to bring together people with similar mental health or substance abuse conditions. People with mental health conditions—who often refer to themselves as mental health consumers—have organized other types of peer supports, including drop-in centers, warmlines and training courses in wellness and recovery. Who should use support groups? Support groups are offered as a space where individuals can come together to share their stories, experiences, and lives in a way that helps reduce isolation and loneliness. Oftentimes, we think we are struggling alone, but support groups help us see that there are others who may dealing with similar situations and who in turn can help us get better. Support groups are open to anyone, but they are often focused on specific topics (i.e. depression, family, divorce, grief, etc.). So, take some time and do some research to find the right one for you and your current situation. Finding the right support group can be helpful. Do not be discouraged if the first support group you find doesn’t quite feel right. You should feel comfortable in the support group space that you choose, so trying different ones may help you determine the best fit. Can I access support groups online? Some organizations now offer online support groups, discussion boards, blogs, and online communities as additional ways to connect with others in similar situations. These can be helpful additions to in-person support groups and can be especially helpful if there are no groups in your area. Where can I find a support group to attend locally? Specialized support group resources - [Adult Children of Alcoholics](http://www.adultchildren.org/) - [Al-Anon/Alateen](http://www.al-anon.org/meetings/meeting.html) - [Alcoholics Anonymous](http://www.aa.org/pages/en_US) - [AlcoholScreening.org](https://www.alcohol.org/alcoholism/screening-and-testing/) - [Alzheimer’s Association](http://www.alz.org/FindChapter.asp) - [American Association of Retired Persons Grief and Loss Information](http://www.aarp.org/family/lifeafterloss/) - [Anxiety and Depression Association of America peer-to-peer support group](https://healthunlocked.com/anxiety-depression-support/about) - [Attention Deficit Disorder Association](https://add.org/adhd-support-groups/) - [Autism Society of America](http://www.autism-society.org/) - [The Balanced Mind Foundation](http://community.dbsalliance.org/) - [Brain Injury Association of America](https://www.biausa.org/find-bia) - [Caregiver Action Network](http://caregiveraction.org/) - [Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder](https://chadd.org/professional-directory/) (CHADD) In addition to support groups, CHADD has a [section for parents](https://chadd.org/for-parents/overview/) which includes many helpful resources (look at list of options on right-hand side of the page) and a link that explains their [Parent to Parent Family Training](http://www.chadd.org/Training-Events/Parent-to-Parent-Program.aspx) classes. For more information about these on-line training classes, review the information at the link we’ve provided or contact the CHADD national resource center at 1-800-233-4050. - [Co-Dependents Anonymous](https://coda.org/) or sign up for their [email list](http://www.codependents.org/). You can also visit <http://www.codependents.org/> - [The Compassionate Friends Grief Support](https://www.compassionatefriends.org/find-support/chapters/chapter-locator/): After the death of a child (Use this link to find groups in your area) - [CoSLAA](http://www.coslaa.org/meetings/) Support groups for family and friends of people who have a sex addiction - [Crisis Text Line](https://www.crisistextline.org/resources/) - [Debtors Anonymous](https://debtorsanonymous.org/meeting-info/) - [Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance](http://www.dbsalliance.org/site/PageServer?pagename=peer_support_group_locator) - [Dual Diagnosis of Oregon, Inc.](http://www.ddaoforegon.com/) (Although based in Oregon, offer support to those in other areas who wish to establish groups to help those who have both a mental health and alcohol/substance abuse condition) - [Emotions Anonymous](http://emotionsanonymous.org/): Modeled after the Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step program, Emotions Anonymous is open to any individual dealing with emotional difficulties. - [Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health,](http://www.ffcmh.org/) a parent support and advocacy network - [Gamblers Anonymous](https://gamblersanonymous.org/) - [Hospice Foundation of America](http://www.hospicefoundation.org/) (Grief and Loss section includes link to find a local hospice office using link from left-hand side of the page; many offices offer grief support groups. National hospice office can be reached by calling 1-800-868-5171.) - [International Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Foundation](http://www.ocfoundation.org/find_a_support_group.aspx) - [International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation](http://www.isst-d.org/) - [Male Survivor](https://malesurvivor.org/healing-resources/) (Discussion board and chat room for men who have been sexually abused can be accessed from Survivors tab on left hand side of the page) - [Narcotics Anonymous](http://www.na.org/meetingsearch/) - [The National Alliance on Mental Illness](https://nami.org/) (NAMI): A family support and advocacy organization - [National Eating Disorders Association](http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/) - [Overeaters Anonymous](http://www.oa.org/) Offer in-person, telephone, and on-line meetings - [Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays](http://community.pflag.org/NETCOMMUNITY/Page.aspx?pid=209&srcid=194) (PFLAG) - [Postpartum Support International](https://www.postpartum.net/get-help/specialized-support-resources/) and link to support resources in your area (National 24-hour Postpartum Depression Helpline 1.800.944.4PPD) - [S-Anon International Family Groups](https://sanon.org/) Support groups for family and friends of people who have a sex addiction - [Self-Injury Recovery & Awareness](https://www.thesira.org/) - [Sex Addicts Anonymous](https://www.saa-meetings.org/) (description of organization) and find a meeting link [https://saa-recovery.org/meetings/](https://saa-recovery.org/meetings/) - [Sidran Institute](http://www.sidran.org/) (Extensive information and resources on ptsd, dissociative disorder, trauma, and self injury; e-mail or call 1-888-825-8249 to request support group information) - [Survivors of Incest Anonymous](https://siawso.org/) (Use the SIA Groups and Intergroups options on the left-hand side of the home page to find meeting information) - [The Arc](http://www.thearc.org/) (Support and information for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities and their families) To find a chapter near [click here](http://www.thearc.org/find-a-chapter). - [Tourette Syndrome Association, Inc.](http://www.tsa-usa.org/) - [TARA Association for Personality Disorder:](http://www.tara4bpd.org/) National Borderline Personality Disorder Resource and Referral Center - [The TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors](https://www.bfrb.org/find-help-support/find-a-support-group) - [Well Spouse Association](http://www.wellspouse.org/) Support for spousal caregivers. Other helpful resources - [“After An Attempt”](https://store.samhsa.gov/product/A-Guide-for-Taking-Care-of-Your-Family-Member-After-Treatment-in-the-Emergency-Department/sma18-4357eng) A practical guide developed for individuals who have attempted suicide, their family/friends, and for mental health professionals. - [Air Compassion for Veterans](https://angelwingsforveterans.org/) for injured veteran’s ongoing healing process. - [American Association of Caregiving Youth](https://archrespite.org/) gives support to individuals under 18 years of age who are caregivers. - [American Foundation for Suicide Prevention](http://www.afsp.org/) has chapters around the country and offers a variety of information and support resources for those who have lost a loved one to suicide. - [ARCH National Respite Network](https://archrespite.org/respitelocator/respite-locator-service-state-information-map) - [Armed Services YMCA](http://www.asymca.org/) - [ATTACh at 866-453-8224](http://www.attach.org/) (Association for Treatment and Training in the Attachment of Children) - [Brain and Behavior Research Foundation](http://bbrfoundation.org/) (formerly known as NARSAD, has information about schizophrenia and depression for individuals and their families) - [Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center](http://www.bpdresourcecenter.org/) - [Cause USA](http://cause-usa.org/) Comfort for America’s Uniformed Services (help for those wounded in military service) - [Families for Depression Awareness](http://www.familyaware.org/) (Information about depression and bipolar disorder including how to help someone who is depressed seek treatment and manage treatment, information for friends and family members about taking care of themselves, downloadable Wellness Guides, as well as free brochures including “Helping Someone Who Is Depressed”) - [Geriatric Mental Health Foundation](http://www.gmhfonline.org/) offers information on caregiving, mental health topics relating to older adults, and a Depression Recovery Toolkit. - [GLBT National Help Center](http://www.glnh.org/) at 1-888-843-4564 (adults) and 1-800-246-7743 (adolescents) Provides telephone and e-mail peer counseling as well as information and resources. - [Hazelden](https://www.hazeldenbettyford.org/) offers a helpful question and answers section for friends and family members who care about someone who has an alcohol or substance abuse problem. - [Job Accommodation Network](http://www.jan.wvu.edu/links/about.htm) (JAN) is a service provided by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy. JAN’s mission is to facilitate the employment and retention of workers with disabilities by providing employers, employment providers, people with disabilities, their family members and other interested parties with information on job accommodations, entrepreneurship, and related subjects. - [National Center for PTSD](http://www.ptsd.va.gov/) offers “Returning from the War Zone: A Guide for Families of Military Personnel” - [National Center for Trauma Informed Care (NCTIC)](http://www.samhsa.gov/nctic/) - [National Child Traumatic Stress Network](http://www.nctsn.org/) - [National Domestic Violence Hotline](http://www.thehotline.org/help/) 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) and 1-800-787-3224 (TTY) - [National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder](https://www.borderlinepersonalitydisorder.com/family-connections/) 914-835-9011 - [S.A.F.E. Alternatives](http://www.selfinjury.com/) (Information and resources for help with self injury) - [Schizophrenia.com](http://www.schizophrenia.com/index.php) - [Self Inflicted Violence](https://healingselfinjury.com/the-cutting-edge-a-newsletter-for-people-living-with-self-inflicted-violence/) (Website includes link to sample newsletter The Cutting Edge) - [Suicide Prevention Resource Center](http://www.sprc.org/) - [Survivors Art Foundation](http://www.survivorsartfoundation.org/) (For trauma survivors) - [U.S. Vets](http://www.usvetsinc.org/locations/) (A non-profit organization that helps homeless veterans access mental health and substance abuse services along with housing and other community supports to achieve successful reintegration into the community.) - [Yellow Ribbon](http://www.yellowribbon.org/) offers information and resources about suicide prevention for teens, parents, and others. Has chapters in many states and some other countries as well as support resources for those who have lost a loved one to suicide. National toll-free 24 hour hotlines - [Child-Help USA](https://www.childhelp.org/) at 1-800-422-4453 (1-800-4-A-Child) Assists both child and adult survivors of abuse, including sexual abuse. The hotline, staffed by mental health professionals, also provides treatment referrals. - [Boys Town](http://www.boystown.org/hotline) at 1-800-448-3000 Crisis, resource, and referral line that assists both teens and parents. - [988 Suicide & Crisis Line](https://988lifeline.org/) at 988 connects you with 24-hour crisis support by calling, texting, or chatting on the website. - [SAMHSA’s Treatment Locator](https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/) at 1-800-662-4357 provides you with information about local mental health services. Finding other local services Mental Health America has a nationwide network of [140+ affiliates.](https://mhanational.org/affiliates) These local and state Mental Health America affiliates develop individual programs geared toward the specific mental health needs of their communities as well as implementing our national initiatives on the state and local levels. Offices vary both in size and in the types of programs and services they offer. ### Mental Health America affiliates provide: - public education - information and referral - support groups - rehabilitation services - socialization and housing services to those confronting mental health problems and their loved ones Many also provide family advocate services to parents and children with serious emotional disturbances, mentoring relationships for adults recovering from mental illnesses, and professional education to those working in the mental health field. Our affiliates serve as local leaders in the support and development of consumer-run initiatives and primary prevention programs. Finally, affiliates strive to influence public policy at the local, state, and national level to assure fair and effective treatment to the millions of Americans suffering from mental disorders. In addition to providing services, affiliate offices are typically an excellent resource for information about area mental health programs and services including: - treatment - support groups - state and local prescription assistance - community legal and advocacy services - other important community services To find the local Mental Health America office nearest you, please use our [Affiliate Locator.](https://mhanational.org/affiliates "find an affiliate") ## You Make The Call To The Mental Health Professional...Now What Do You Do? Spend a few minutes talking with them on the phone, ask about their approach to working with patients, their philosophy, whether or not they have a specialty or concentration (some psychologists for instance specialize in family counseling, or child counseling, while others specialize in divorce or coping with the loss of a loved one.) If you feel comfortable talking to the counselor or doctor, the next step is to make an appointment. On your first visit, the counselor or the doctor will want to get to know you and why you called him or her. The counselor will want to know: what you think the problem is, about your life, what you do, where you live, with whom you live. It is also common to be asked about your family and friends. This information helps the professional to assess your situation and develop a plan for treatment. If you don’t feel comfortable with the professional after the first, or even several visits, talk about your feelings at your next meeting. Don’t be afraid to contact another counselor. Feeling comfortable with the professional you choose is very important to the success of your treatment. Psychotherapy Psychotherapy is a method of talking face-to-face with a therapist. The following are a few of the types of available therapy: - Behavior Therapy – Includes stress management, biofeedback and relaxation training to change thinking patterns and behavior. - Psychoanalysis – Long-term therapy meant to “uncover” unconscious motivations and early patterns to resolve issues and to become aware of how those motivations influence present actions and feelings. - Cognitive Therapy – Seeks to identify and correct thinking patterns that can lead to troublesome feelings and behavior. - Family Therapy – Includes discussion and problem-solving sessions with every member of the family. - Movement/Art/Music Therapy – These methods include the use of movement, art or music to express emotions. Effective for persons who cannot otherwise express feelings. - Group Therapy – Includes a small group of people who, with the guidance of a trained therapist, discuss individual issues and help each other with problems. Medication therapy Prescription drugs can be beneficial to some people with mental or emotional disorders. If you and your doctor decide that taking medication should be a part of your recovery journey, make sure to ask about risk, possible side-effects, and interaction with certain foods, alcohol and other medications. Medication should be taken in the prescribed dosage and at prescribed intervals and should be monitored daily. While some medications (like tranquilizers used to manage acute anxiety) work almost immediately, it’s important to remember that many mental health medications take time to work and that it might be a month or two before they have their full effect. You may also find that you need to go through some trial and error before you find a medication that is the right fit for you. It can be frustrating to have to try different medications while you’re dealing with mental health symptoms, but often it’s well worth the wait. If you have depression and have tried multiple medications without finding the right one, you may want to consider [pharmacogenomic testing](https://mhanational.org/resources/pharmacogenomic-testing/). There are also other considerations about medication therapy that may impact your treatment choices, such as cost. Generics or authorized generic medications are one way to save. [Learn more about medications](https://mhanational.org/treatment-options/medication/). Electric convulsive treatment (ECT) Electric convulsive treatment, or ECT, is used to treat some cases of major depression, delusions, and hallucinations, or life-threatening sleep and eating disorders that can not be effectively treated with drugs and/or psychotherapy. Discuss with your physician about the risks and side effects of ECT. ## Am I getting the care I need? As you progress through the therapeutic process, you should begin to feel gradual relief from your distress, to develop self assurance, and have a greater ability to make decisions and increased comfort in your relationship with others. Therapy may be painful and uncomfortable at times but episodes of discomfort occur during the most successful therapy sessions. Mental health treatment should help you cope with your feelings more effectively. If you feel you are not getting results, it may be because the treatment you are receiving is not the one best suited to your specific needs. If you feel there are problems, discuss them with your therapist. A competent therapist will be eager to discuss your reactions to therapy and respond to your feeling about the process. If you are still dissatisfied, a consultation with another therapist may help you and your therapist evaluate your work together. Learn more about mental health Want more information on mental health?
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