Serious Mental Illness. Now What?
Someone you love has been diagnosed with a serious mental illness–depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia.
Now what?
Where do you turn when you don’t know where to turn?
Here is a list of general resources to get you started:
- Your family physician or health care provider
- The Mental health division of your local health department
- A community mental health center
- An Employee Assistance Program provided through the Human Resources Department of your workplace or employer
- Child and family social services agency
- A professional counselorwho works in a mental health center, outpatient clinic, privated practice, or group practice
- Pastoral counselor or member of clergy
- Self-help or support group
- Mental health or crisis hot line, drug hot line, or suicide prevention hot line
- Hospital emergency room
If you have health insurance, call the toll-free number for member services and learn what services are covered and which providers are preferred.
When my children were most ill, I spent hours on the phone arranging for their medical care and insurance coverage. Despite the frustrations, it was worth it in the end.
Recovery is possible.
Wellness is attainable.
Research. Advocate. Pursue.
It’s worth it.