Where to turn for help…

I am a Licensed Social Worker and have a passion for helping people. I wanted to share some information on where you can turn for help and support. This information provides insight into services and answers questions people may have but might not feel comfortable asking. I’ve also included some resources to support you or someone you know who may need emotional support or substance use disorder treatment. These sites will connect you with someone who can help guide you in the right direction and get you the support you need. These resources are FREE, completely confidential and your information won’t be shared unless you give the okay. Some of the information and resources may vary depending on where you live so please use this as a guide to reach out for help. 

Why are people hesitant to reach out for help?
You may think others will judge you or find out what is going on and you may feel embarrassed. Everyone goes through ups and downs in life and some hills are steeper than others and some paths are bumpier than others. No matter how big or small you think your problem is “You don’t have to go through it or try to figure it out on your own!” Everyone can use a little support, guidance and direction along the way. Sometimes you are your hardest critic and pass the biggest self judgement. STOP being so hard on yourself, learn to love yourself and let a professional be your biggest cheerleader!  

You may want help but might not be sure where to get it.
There is a plethora of supports and services out there. These are just some links to help you get started on your journey. There are so many websites out there to access services and supports. There are support groups online, individual therapy sessions online, as well as community groups and meetings in your neighborhood. First and most importantly, do your research and pick what you feel comfortable with and don’t be afraid to ask questions! Find out what services are offered and the cost. There are a lot of free support groups out there. Contact your local County Mental Health office (Behavioral Health) or County Substance Use Disorder office (Drug and Alcohol Department/Single County Authority) and they can help you identify resources and referrals for treatment. If you have an insurance card call the number on the back for places near you or check out their website.

You may not have the money to pay for treatment and services.
A lot of services are covered by insurance. If you don’t have insurance some programs offer a sliding scale fee (this would be based on your income). If you don’t have insurance or an income, reach out to your local County Department of Mental Health and/or Substance Use Disorder Department. They might have funds, scholarships, or grants to help pay for treatment. 

What does Mental Health Treatment look like?
There are a lot of different treatment options and modalities of treatment. There is individual therapy, group therapy, intensive therapy, inpatient mental health treatment, medication management with a psychiatrist and Evidenced Based Treatment practices-just to name a few! It can be quite overwhelming so If you’re not sure what you want to do or need, just ask! Keep in mind what works for one person doesn’t always work for another so that’s why there are so many treatment options. For your first appointment, you typically meet with an intake coordinator and they will walk you through the process and help you decide the best course of treatment based on the information you share with them. The most common services are individual therapy by a licensed psychologist or social worker and medication management with a psychiatrist.

What does Substance Use Disorder treatment look like?
Again, there are a lot of different treatment options and modalities of treatment available to help. There is individual counseling, group sessions, intensive outpatient therapy, detoxification and rehabilitation treatment, Medication Assisted Treatment and many, many more. The typical process (this may vary from State to State) when you go to your first appointment is an intake assessment with a counselor who will assess what services will address your needs and provide information/education on the services. Did I mention, what works for one person doesn’t work for every person, so don’t give up and explore your options!

How can I help someone I know?
If someone is talking about suicide or hurting themselves than you must take action! Call 911, your local crisis center or take them to the nearest hospital for help. If you see a post on social media from a family member, friend or someone you know that includes comments about self harm, suicide or raises concern you can take action and help.

If it is through Facebook or Instagram you can report the content and they will contact the person with information on how to get help. Also, make sure you contact the suicide prevention hotline since the person might be in need of urgent/immediate support and emergency services need to respond. Please keep in mind the information you share can be anonymous. 

Your friend or family member might not know where to turn for help or someone might not be ready or willing, but it doesn’t mean it will be that way forever. The best way to help someone is to share information on what is out there and what options are available. Call one of the helplines and gather some information and ask for flyers or brochures to share with that person. They may not reach out that moment you hand them the information, but they might pick up the phone and call later that day or a month down the road. Information is power, so give someone the power to take control of their journey!

Suicide Prevention Life Line
“If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States. No matter what problems you’re dealing with, whether or not you’re thinking about suicide, if you need someone to lean on for emotional support” 
Suicide Prevention Lifeline  1-800-273-8255

Substance abuse and mental health services administration helpline
“SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357), (also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service) or TTY: 1-800-487-4889 is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. Callers can also order free publications and other information.”
SAMHSA’s National Helpline  1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Psychology Today
“Psychology Today’s directory provides a comprehensive directory of therapists, psychiatrists and treatment facilities near you.”
Psychology Today