Taking Charge of Your Mental Health

by Ashley Foster, Program Associate - February 5, 2018

When it comes to your mental health, it’s important to be proactive and take charge of your own situation. Remember that treatment choices will vary from person to person and even people with the same diagnosis will have different experiences and needs. NAMI has created this infographic to highlight some topics you should think about as you begin on the path to mental wellness.

FIND THE RIGHT SPECIALIST

Ask your doctor or nurse to help you find a specialist and make your first appointment .
There may be a long wait for your first visit, so speak up if you need to see someone right away .
If the first mental health specialist you see isn’t a good fit, keep looking for one who works for you.

MAKE YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT COUNT

Be ready to talk about your health history and what you’re experiencing.
You may be asked to fill out a questionnaire describing your mental health experience.
Be clear about what you want and need to get better.
Ask the mental health specialist to explain treatment options so you understand the plan and what you need to do.

ASK QUESTIONS

If I have thoughts that scare me what should I do?
Do I have to take medication? What does it help with? What are the side effects?
How often should we meet? What can I do between appointments if I need help?
How long will it take for me to feel better, a few days, weeks or months?

STAY INVOLVED

Keep a wellness log and monitor your progress.
Ask for changes if your treatment plan is not working for you.
Stick with it; most therapies and medications take time to work.
Your treatment plan may change, so be an active partner in this process.

LIVE WELL

Remember that you have control over living well.
Find a routine that works for you that includes a healthy diet, exercise and regular sleep patterns.
Stay close to your support network. Engage family, friends, teammates and your faith community. Think about joining an online community.
Be realistic and mindful of your needs and know your limits.

GETTING THROUGH IT

Try staying away from drugs and alcohol. This is not always easy, so find strategies that work. Using drugs or alcohol to feel better is harmful to you.
If you use alcohol or drugs, be honest and tell your therapist or doctor because it affects your care plan.
Stay positive. Surround yourself with positive messages, people and activities. This will help you to feel better.

Reference : National Allaince on Mental Health