When you need help?

When you need help?

A myriad options are now available to deal with depression

Do you feel so stressed about your exam results that you can’t focus in class? So upset about a bad breakup that you don’t feel like getting out of bed? If something is bothering you that is impacting your ability to carry out everyday activities, you might need to visit a mental health professional.

Today, most major hospitals and several academic institutes have psychologists or psychiatrists. These professionals are trained to help you manage a myriad of problems — anxiety, depression, even the nameless feeling of dread that is caught in your chest.

Here are some things you should know before meeting a mental health professional.

Your problems are real and they matter. Being unable to overcome negative thoughts does not make you weak. Recognising that you need help and going out to get it takes a lot of courage.

Seeking help is not a big deal. You meet someone, explain what is troubling you and they listen and help you find a solution. Sometimes, the troubles, like a skin problem, can take time to go away, so you might have to meet with the professional on a regular basis until it resolves.

No one is judging you. The idea of meeting a professional can be scary or even embarrassing. This is a complete stranger with whom you will be sharing intimate details of your life, some of which you might have never admitted out loud before. It’s important to remember that this is their job. They meet people like you every day and are not going to judge you. They are interested in helping you feel better and will keep your conversation confidential.

Make sure you are comfortable. If, at the end of the first couple of meetings, you don’t feel comfortable with the therapist, there is nothing wrong with going to meet another one instead. It is the same as meeting other doctors for second opinion if you are not satisfied with the first.

Evaluate options

Be aware of your options. Psychiatrists, who are medical doctors with a specialisation in psychiatry, can prescribe medication. Psychologists cannot do this, but use counselling techniques called “talk therapies”, like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. The two professionals routinely work together. So if you visit a psychiatrist and are uncomfortable with taking medication, discuss the possibility of counselling instead. Similarly, if you visit a psychologist and feel you would like to explore medicative options, let them know.

Both methods have their pros and cons. Counselling is not an overnight solution and can take time to show its effect, but is a good option for people who do not want or require medication. Medication is a good option if you feel you are in dire straits, and is most effective when combined with counselling rather than as a standalone treatment. If you are prescribed medication, be sure to ask about the dosage and the side effects.

Have a support system in place: This could be anyone who you feel you can trust and confide in. Take them along as moral support for your first visit to the psychiatrist or psychologist. If you feel hesitant to talk to your parents, go with a friend until you feel more ready to open up. However, if you are prescribed medication, it is important to tell your parents about this as it becomes part of your medical history.

--------------------------------------------------------------------- Krithvi Shyam------- 

The author is a psychologist and management consultant. 

Email: krithvis@gmail.com

Thanks to : THE HINDU - 05.03.2017