When Is Mental Health Treatment Necessary?

Mental health is essential to overall well-being, but it is often overlooked. Mental health issues are often minimized, with some people suffering while thinking what they’re experiencing is normal. Others skip treatment for fear of judgment or stigma.

But mental health conditions can have a crippling effect on a person’s quality of life. Knowing when mental health treatment is necessary and knowing where to turn for help can change this. 

Massachusetts Center for Addiction offers compassionate, comprehensive mental health care. Our team of mental health professionals approaches treatment with respect for the individual. We encourage you to reach out to us if you or your loved one needs mental health care. 

Signs of Declining Mental Health: When to Seek Mental Health Help

The symptoms of mental health concerns can manifest in various ways, and they aren’t always recognized as signs you need mental health treatment. After all, most people have periods of time when they’re feeling depressed, anxious, or just don’t feel mentally like themselves. 

It is important to identify the differences between these normal ups and downs of life and the signs of a need for mental health care. 

First, reaching out for help is alright, even if your symptoms are passing. You are worthy of mental health care and shouldn’t hesitate to receive the treatment you need. However, there are a few signs that your mental health may be declining. 

If you or someone you care about has experienced these signs for more than two weeks, we urge you to seek appropriate mental health care before symptoms escalate further. 

• Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness
• Loss or declining interest in activities
• Difficulty making decisions
• Inability to focus on daily tasks
• Feelings of anxiety or excessive worry
• Unusual fatigue or sleeping disturbances 

Mental Health Warning Signs: When to See a Therapist

Mental health symptoms that affect a person’s general mood, physical health, and work, academic, or social life are signs that it’s time to seek mental health treatment. These conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and bipolar disorder can present with a range of symptoms but are all rooted in complex psychological and biological factors that require proper treatment. 

Those experiencing mental health warning signs should not wait to seek mental health care.If your symptoms are so severe that you can’t function, interact with others, or have thoughts of self-harm, it’s crucial to contact 911 or go to an emergency room or mental health care center immediately.

Social Withdrawal

Someone who is severely suffering with their mental health may withdraw away from the world. Avoiding friends and family or no longer engaging in typical social activities is a common sign of declining mental health or mental distress. 

Extreme Irritability or Mood Swings

Mental health disorders can cause drastic, noticeable changes in a person’s mood and demeanor. Frequent mood changes are common with mental health disorders, as are unexplained, frequent outbursts of anger or irritation. 

Inability to function in daily life

Mental health issues can make it difficult to get out of bed and find the energy to go to work, attend school, or take care of a home and family. Mental distress can be all-consuming, making it impossible to find the energy or motivation to tend to daily life. 

Physical Symptoms

Depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders can negatively impact physical health. Physical symptoms such as recurring headaches, chronic pain, muscle aches, digestive issues, and a weakened immune system can be indicators of an underlying mental health issue that requires treatment. 

Coping with Trauma or Loss

Everyone experiences some type of loss or trauma in their lives. Processing these events and the emotional fallout is something that should be supported by mental health therapy. Seeking treatment during these difficult times can provide a healthier, more productive healing process and coping skills for the future. 

Substance Abuse

There is a recognized connection between mental health disorders and substance abuse. Those who abuse substances, such as drugs (prescription or otherwise) and alcohol, have a higher likelihood of being diagnosed with a co-occurring mental health disorder than the general population. 

Likewise, those with mental health conditions are at a greater risk of developing a substance use disorder. New usage or an increasing reliance on drugs, alcohol, or other addictive substances is a strong indicator that mental health care is needed. 

Recognizing the Necessity of Mental Health Care for Someone You Love 

We all want the best for those we love, including their physical and mental well-being. Identifying when someone you care for is mentally unstable can be difficult, especially if they’re not openly communicating their mental health struggles. Recognizing the signs that a loved one needs help is crucial for helping them receive the care they need. 

If you’re noticing any of the signs or symptoms of mental distress or mental health disorders, don’t hesitate to communicate your concerns with your loved one. Approach the conversation without judgment and express your concern gently. Tell them you’ve noticed some changes and are concerned about their well-being. 

If mental health conditions and their treatment are an unfamiliar topic for you, we encourage you to educate yourself as much as possible. The SAMHSA website is an excellent resource for friends and family of those struggling with mental health and addiction. 

Allow your loved one to share what they’re feeling, and provide a space that is safe and free of judgment for them to do so. When the time feels right, suggest seeking mental health treatment as a way to move forward. 

Depending on the severity of symptoms, this might involve helping them find a therapist for outpatient services or offering support and assistance in admitting them to inpatient mental health care. 

Receiving the Mental Health Treatment You Need in Massachusetts 

Knowing when to get help for mental health is important for overall well-being and quality of life. There is no shame or stigma in seeking the treatment you need to feel like yourself and live a peaceful, fulfilling life. If you’ve noticed signs of declining mental health or are experiencing mental health warning signs, the Massachusetts Center for Addiction is here to help. 

Our compassionate staff of mental health professionals can help you regain stability and peace of mind. Call the Massachusetts Center for Addiction at  844-486-0671 for a consultation today.