Bettering Ourselves Part 2: Mental Health
This blog usually focuses on food. But there’s so much more
to health and wellness than that.
As a Registered Dietitian, I recognize that and often play
the role of “wellness coach,” helping people find the resources they need.
I also am often part of an interdisciplinary team a.k.a. a health care team. Health care professionals don't work alone. We work together and know when to refer clients (patients) to other professionals.
So, even though I can't treat your mental health directly, I can direct you those who can...
I also am often part of an interdisciplinary team a.k.a. a health care team. Health care professionals don't work alone. We work together and know when to refer clients (patients) to other professionals.
So, even though I can't treat your mental health directly, I can direct you those who can...
You don't need a mental health diagnosis to benefit from talking to someone. Maven Clinic allows you to talk to professionals without leaving your home, thanks to telehealth sessions. This means you can
video chat with a counselor or psychiatric nurse practitioner. They do not take
insurance. Subscriptions are available, in which you’ll pay for a month rather
than for each visit. This may help you save money if you want to video chat
with a counselor weekly. Also available as an iPhone app.
Although Psychology
Today is a magazine, their website offers helpful resources. If
you're wondering if you have depression or another mental illness, you
can complete a self-test
on their website. These tests don't just focus on diagnoses, but also
include tests on relationships, concentration, and anger managment, for
example. If you take a test and decide to seek treatment, their website
includes databases of treatment centers, therapists, psychiatrists, and
support groups.
NAMI offers various services in the United States, including
in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. This
organization runs free support groups for those who “live with mental illness”
(have a diagnosis) and their families. Some areas run support groups specifically
for parents or spouses. Services vary depending on region. To find services in
your area, visit https://www.nami.org/Find-Support.
I know that there are MANY more resources available for people struggling with their mental health. I wanted to keep this list short. More importantly, I wanted to share sites that would be available nationally, not just locally. Feel free to list other resources in the comments.
I am not affiliated
with any of these organizations.