When to Seek Mental Health Help:
Recognizing the Signs

Read on to learn the signs and symptoms that indicate when to seek mental health help and resources for holistic and comprehensive support.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents

Finding Local Mental Health Treatment

Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, sadness, or anxiety? While these are common experiences, they can develop into significant roadblocks in our daily lives.

If you’re wondering when to seek mental health help, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with recognizing the signs that indicate professional support may be beneficial.

By understanding the signs and taking action, you can navigate challenges and learn to live a healthier and happier life. Skyline Recovery Center’s (SRC) treatment programs in Los Angeles, California can help you get there.

whento seek mental health help

Understanding the Importance of Mental Health

Mental health is an essential part of well-being. It encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It also affects how people think, feel, and behave while impacting the ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.1

Just like physical health, mental health can exist on a spectrum. Everyone has ups and downs, but consistent issues with mental health can disrupt our daily lives in many ways.

The Impact of Mental Health Conditions

Mental health challenges are more common than many people realize. An estimated 50 million adults in the United States (1 in 5) experience mental illness at any given time.
These conditions can take many forms, including:2
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Eating disorders
  • Trauma
  • Substance use disorders 
They can also manifest through a variety of symptoms, impacting mood, thoughts, behavior, and physical health.

Normalizing Mental Health Struggles

Despite their prevalence, there is often still a stigma associated with mental health challenges. This can lead people to feel ashamed or embarrassed to seek help.
However, it’s important to remember that mental health struggles are nothing to be ashamed of. They are just as treatable as physical health conditions. In fact, getting help early can prevent these challenges from worsening and improve quality of life.

Recognizing Warning Signs for When to Seek Mental Health Help

When to seek mental health help can be a difficult question to answer. However, here are some key warning signs that might indicate it’s time to reach out for professional support:3
  • Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or anxiety that interfere with daily activities for more than two weeks.
  • Significant changes in appetite or sleep patterns.
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
  • Withdrawal from social activities or hobbies you once enjoyed.
  • Excessive anger or irritability.
  • Low energy or feelings of fatigue.
  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
  • Increased substance use to cope with emotional difficulties.
If you are experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to take action. Early intervention is crucial for effective treatment, and our treatment programs at Skyline Recovery Center can help get you back on track to feeling your best.

When to Seek Mental Health Help With Skyline Recovery Center

Skyline Recovery Center (SRC) is a comprehensive mental health and substance use treatment center located in Los Angeles, California. Our goal is to empower individuals towards lasting recovery.
SRC provides outpatient services based on each person’s unique needs, and our programs include:
  • Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): This provides intensive treatment for up to 8 hours per day, 5 days a week while still allowing individuals to return home each night. 
  • Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): This offers frequent therapy sessions several times a week  for between 3 to 5 hours per day, up to 5 days a week. However, an IOP offers more flexibility than a PHP.
  • Outpatient Drug Program: This is the least intensive treatment and typically involves individual and group therapy sessions a few times per week.

What Therapy Options Do We Offer?

The staff at Skyline Recovery Center provides both evidence-based and holistic treatment options. These approaches work to address the whole person, not just their symptoms.

Our aim is to provide each person with the best support for their overall health and recovery. To do this, we offer various approaches, such as:4
  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps identify and change negative thought patterns to improve mood and behavior.
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT teaches skills for managing emotions, relationships, and stress. 
  • Motivational Interviewing (MI): MI uses a collaborative approach to help people explore and strengthen their own motivation for change.
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR uses eye movements to help reprocess traumatic memories and reduce emotional distress.5
  • Trauma-Focused Therapy: Trauma-focused therapy helps individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences.

Additional Holistic Options

We also offer a variety of holistic and alternative approaches to complement traditional therapies.
These approaches include:
  • Meditation and Mindfulness Practices: These involve focusing attention and awareness on the present moment.
  • Yoga: This combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation for physical and mental well-being.
  • Outdoor Adventure Therapy: This utilizes outdoor activities to promote self-discovery, teamwork, and emotional resilience.
  • Music and Art Therapy: These help individuals use creative expression to improve mental health and well-being. 
  • Breathwork Exercises: These help focus on controlled breathing patterns to manage stress and improve emotional regulation.
  • Sound Baths: These use sound vibrations to promote relaxation and improve mood. 
It’s important to use a combination of treatment approaches to best address each individual’s needs. If you’re wondering when to seek mental health help, contact Skyline Recovery Center to learn more and find out what might be the best treatment approach for you.

When to Seek Mental Health Help: Indicators and Red Flags

While the signs listed previously can be helpful for a general idea of when to seek mental health help, there are more specific situations that clearly indicate it’s time to seek professional support.
Here are some key red flags to watch out for:

Changes in Mood and Behavior

Significant shifts in mood, energy levels, and behavior can be indicators of an underlying mental health concern. For example, a friend who is usually outgoing and social suddenly becoming withdrawn and disinterested in activities they used to enjoy.
Another example might be someone who experiences dramatic mood swings, going from extreme happiness to sadness in a short period.

Impact on Daily Functioning

Mental health challenges can significantly disrupt various aspects of daily life, such as difficulty concentrating at work or school, leading to problems with performance. Relationships with family and friends can also suffer as a result of changes in mood or behavior.
Additionally, neglecting personal care and hygiene can be a sign of a deeper struggle.

Persistent Symptoms

It’s important to pay attention to the duration and severity of symptoms. If you are experiencing any of the warning signs mentioned earlier, particularly for more than two weeks, and they are causing significant distress or interfering with your daily life, it’s time to seek professional help.
Early intervention is crucial for effective treatment and getting you back on track.

Crisis Situations

In some cases, seeking immediate help is critical.
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or other mental health emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) also provides 24/7 free and confidential support for people in distress.
By understanding and recognizing these indicators and red flags, individuals can better determine when to seek mental health help and take proactive steps towards recovery.

Our Team Can Support You

Remember, you are not alone – Skyline Recovery Center is here to help. If you are struggling and wondering when to seek mental health help, we can provide the support and guidance you need.
With the right support — the sky’s the limit.

Resources for Mental Health Support

Seeking help from mental health professionals is a crucial step in addressing mental health challenges. Therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists are trained to provide support and treatment for a variety of mental health conditions.
Therapists and counselors will offer various types of talk therapy to help individuals explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to develop coping strategies. Additionally, psychiatrists can prescribe or adjust medications if necessary.
Understanding when to seek mental health help from these professionals can make a significant difference in managing mental health effectively.

Support Networks

In addition to professional help, support from friends, family members, and support groups can be invaluable. Reaching out to loved ones for emotional support and guidance can provide a sense of comfort and belonging.
Support groups, whether in-person or online, offer a community of individuals who understand similar experiences and challenges. These networks can provide encouragement, share coping strategies, and reduce feelings of isolation.
Knowing when to seek mental health help from these support networks can enhance the overall treatment process.

Community Resources

There are numerous community resources available for those seeking mental health support. Helplines offer immediate, confidential assistance for individuals in crisis, while online resources include websites and forums that provide information and support for mental health conditions.
Community mental health centers also offer services like counseling, therapy, and support groups. These are often at a reduced cost or on a sliding scale. Utilizing these resources can be a critical component in understanding when to seek mental health help and ensuring access to necessary support.

Overcoming Barriers to Seeking Mental Health Treatment

Stigma surrounding mental health can be a significant barrier for treatment. Misconceptions and negative stereotypes can lead people to feel ashamed or embarrassed to seek help.
It’s important to remember that mental health challenges are just as valid as physical health concerns. Just like seeking medical attention for a physical illness, getting help for a mental health condition is a sign of strength and self-care.

Accessing Resources

Financial limitations can also be a barrier to accessing mental health care. However, there are options available, including:
  • Many insurance plans cover mental health services.
  • Community mental health centers offer affordable or accessible services.
  • Some therapists even work on a sliding scale based on income. 
Understanding when to seek mental health help and knowing where to find affordable resources can make a significant difference.

How to Combat Barriers for When to Seek Mental Health Help

By prioritizing self-care and advocating for well-being, individuals can overcome these barriers and get the support they deserve.
Here are some tips for overcoming barriers to seeking help:
  • Educate Oneself: Learn about mental health conditions and treatment options. The more informed one is, the more empowered one will feel to seek help.
  • Talk to a Trusted Individual: Talking to a friend, family member, doctor, or therapist can provide support and guidance.
  • Explore Online Resources: Many websites offer information and support for people struggling with mental health challenges.
  • Start Small: If the idea of therapy feels overwhelming, consider starting with a support group or online resources.
  • Focus on Self-Care: Prioritize healthy sleep habits, regular exercise, and a balanced diet. These lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on mental well-being.
Knowing when to seek mental health help and taking proactive steps can significantly improve one’s quality of life.
whento seek mental health help

Taking the Next Step Towards Mental Health With SRC

Recognizing the signs of mental health challenges and knowing when to seek mental health help are critical steps towards maintaining well-being.
Remember, some key signs to look out for include:
  • Persistent sadness or anxiety
  • Significant changes in mood or behavior
  • Impact on daily functioning
  • Suicidal thoughts or actions

Skyline Recovery Center is here to support you on your journey to mental wellness. If you are wondering when to seek mental health help, don’t hesitate to reach out. A simple, no-obligation phone call can be the first step towards a healthier and happier you.

Don’t hesitate to prioritize your mental well-being. If you are struggling, reach out for help. Talking to a trusted friend, family member, doctor, or therapist can be the first step towards feeling better.

Get in Touch With Our Team Today

If you are in California and are considering seeking help, contact Skyline Recovery Center today. Our experienced and compassionate staff can provide the support and guidance you need to overcome challenges and live a healthier, happier life.

Call us at 310-686-9689 or reach out online to learn more about our programs and services today.