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Seeking mental health treatment may seem like an intimidating, confusing process at first. 

However, it is possible. And this guide can help you get started. 

Half of all adults in the U.S.  will experience a mental illness at some point in their life, but treatment options abound.

Below are some tips for starting your journey toward better mental health: 


Most people who seek counseling are affected by three common issues, according to Mary Weeks, executive director of Walk-In Counseling Center, which has several locations in the Twin Cities:

But often, Weeks said, those are symptoms of underlying issues like substance use disorder, domestic violence, trauma, financial insecurity, or dealing with grief and loss. 

The symptoms can be temporary. But if left untreated, can lead to chronic mental illnesses, like childhood trauma affecting someone into adulthood. 

Temporary or situational symptoms may be manageable without professional treatment. But, if you feel overwhelmed or your symptoms prevent you from engaging from work, school, or social situations, it may be time to find appropriate care.


If you have a doctor, they're the best person to assess your care needs. If not, check with your insurance provider to find one. Case managers and service coordinators can also help in this process.

A primary care doctor can make a diagnosis, and prescribe treatment or medications, if necessary. Or they might refer you to a therapist, psychologist, psychiatrist, or another mental health professional. 

When to seek a referral for a mental health specialist


There are many different kinds of mental health professionals that you might be referred to. Mental Health America has a 

Among the most common are psychiatrists and therapists or psychologists.

 These are medical doctors specializing in mental health treatment. They can diagnose the cause of mental health symptoms and prescribe medications along with other therapy treatments.

 A primary care doctor or psychiatrist might refer you to a therapist or psychologist. Some people see a therapist or psychologist without a doctor's referral, too. While most of them can't prescribe medication, they can help identify a type of therapy that's best and either treat you or recommend someone who can. 


If you have insurance, try to stay in your preferred network. Ask your doctor to provide in-network referrals, if you need treatment from a mental health professional.

No insurance? There are walk-in counseling centers that provide 

, and some therapists will offer care on a sliding scale to fit your income. 

 that matches people in need with therapists who are willing to work at a reduced rate. 

Here's a list of the common classes of mental health medications and how they work from the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Read more on 

Editor's note: This is by no means meant to be an exhaustive guide; rather, it's a place to begin. The 

 have more information on mental health resources, too. You can find suicide prevention resources 

Jeyca Maldonado-Medina

Author

Half of adults in the U.S. will experience a mental illness at some point in their life, but treatment options abound. Here are some tips for starting your journey toward better mental health.

Think you need mental health care? Here's a place to start

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