A Preventative Approach To Mental Health Care
The topic of knowing when to reach out for mental health support is one that I talk about with clients (and really anyone that will listen) frequently. I have found that when it comes to seeking treatment or support for mood concerns, people often want to wait as long as they can. Is it really bad enough? Do I actually need treatment or will this pass? Is this just a normal phase that I can just survive through? The answer to any of those questions will vary depending on situation and context, but I generally propose that we change the question and look at emotional wellness from a more preventative lense. Besides, when you have a chronic toothache, isn't it better to go to the dentist and see what's going on sooner rather than later?
I am and advocate for treating your mental health the same way it is recommended that you treat your physical health...preventatively. Although it is shifting, we have created a culture around mental health that sends the message that someone should only go get treatment if things get "really bad." But for most situations, things may not be terrible but they also aren't good. You may be feeling stressed or overwhelmed. You may notice being less interested in things you use to enjoy and are not sure why. You may lack motivation or feel more irritable. All of those things warrant you attention just like a headache or toothache would.
Let's use the headache as an example. If you woke up with a mild or moderate headache one day, you likely wouldn't automatically go to the doctor. You may try and drink some more water, maybe take a Tylenol, and just take it easy that day. However, if you woke up with a headache very day for a week that wouldn't relieve with at-home remedies then you would likely go see your doctor to see what's going on. I want people to treat their mental health the same way. Some days of feeling different moods is completely normal and could be impacted by sleep, life situations, eating, or relationships. However, if the mood changes are consistent then it is worth talking to someone to address ways of finding relief.
I encourage developing a relationship with a counselor the same way you would a doctor or dentist. Someone that you can check in with on an annual or bi-annual basis, but also someone that you know you can reach out to when things feel hard. If you have a doctor you would reach out to them when you have a nagging cold. If you have a counselor you can reach out to them when you are having difficulties with your partner or children, or when you are feeling overwhelmed trying to juggle all the areas of marriage, parenting, and work.
As a new or soon-to-be parent, this can be especialy beneficial for your overall care and support system. Having a mental health professional in place during pregnancy and when you bring your baby home can provide peace of mind in knowing that you have someone available to you to check-in and be there to support and aid in treating any mood concerns that may come up. You may not experience postpartum depression or anxiety but may still benefit from support for adjusting to a new way of life and navigating recovery in all areas.
If you are just not feeling like yourself it can be really helpful to talk to a professional. It doesn’t matter if what you are feeling or experiencing is “bad enough”— anything that is impacting your quality of life or how you show up for yourself, your relationships, or your work is worth addressing. Seemingly big or small.
My approach to working with clients is to build a relationship that is lasting. Maybe we meet regularly for a while and then as-needed once you are feeling better. I encourage mental wellness check-ins every six months to a year, and am always working to help you discover ways to navigate and manage your own emotional wellness outside of our time together.
Interested in learning more? I provide individual and couples counseling in Colorado. I specialize in maternal mental health, parenting, postpartum mood, and relationships. Contact me for a free 15-minute consultation to learn if working together is right for you.
