BARRIERS TO MENTAL HEALTH

I received several responses to the previous post. One particular comment mentioned the following, and I quote:

“A barrier to me iswhen you go for help and then people tell you, that are in the mentalhealth field, that nothing is wrong with him. Especially when you haveseveral Drs. testing (for years back) to back up there is a problem. Thenyou go home to more frustratation and stressful pain due to no support.
And lets don't forget several high bills with no results!”

Communication with the mental health professional is very important. Documenting episodes, changes in personality, moods, frequency of changes can be very valuable information. A calendar can be used to document the dates and a brief description of the episode. On occasions what may happen is that when we are with the doctors we may forget due to the frustration and pressure we feel under, we may not be able to describe fully or get the point across to the person who is assisting.

Looking for support groups and guidance is important for a family who has loved one facing mental health illness. The family gives of themselves however needs to receive support also, needs to know they are not alone and that they can lean on a shoulder and cry if needed. There are no easy answers, every family has a unique need, but having someone listen, show compassion and empathy is a start to dealing with adjustments and learning to live with someone suffering with a mental health illness.

Any suggestions….