Stage 6 of 7 · 7 lessons · ~2 weeks
How to actually get help
Who does what in mental health care, where to find help you can afford, how to choose someone good, what to say at a first appointment, and how to handle stigma and family attitudes.
Start: Counsellor, psychologist, psychiatrist: who does whatLessons· one lesson for each topic, in this order
Do this
- Find out if your university or workplace offers free or low-cost counselling
- List two affordable options near you or online, with how to contact them
- Write five questions to ask a new professional about training, approach and cost
- Write what you would say at a first appointment, using your check-in notes
- Identify one family member or friend who would listen, and what you would say
- If you need help now, book the appointment this week
Start with
- GuideFreeMind: mental health information and support
Mind
What different talking therapies involve and what to expect from them
Practise
Keep handy
Also worth your time
Before moving on: You know which kind of professional to approach first, you have found at least two options you could afford (including your university service if you have one), and you have written down what you would say at a first appointment.
The hardest part is usually the first message or call. Write it down, keep it short, and send it on a day you feel a bit stronger. You do not need family permission to look after your health, and you do not need to have the right words. "I have not been OK for a while and I need help" is enough.
Struggling right now? If you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself, contact local emergency services or a crisis line: Find a helpline (any country), Umang (Pakistan), Tele-MANAS, 14416 (India).