How to Know When You Should Get Help for your Mental Health
October 9, 2024
First Stop Health
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. But how do you know when it’s time to talk to a First Stop Health mental health provider? Let’s look at the signs that you might need help.
Your feelings are too strong or last a long time.
We all have tough days, but if you’re feeling sad, anxious or angry most of the time, it could be a sign that you need help. If you're having trouble working, relaxing or spending time with others, talking to a mental health provider can make a big difference.
You can't eat or sleep like you normally do.
Changes in your sleep—whether you’re sleeping too much or having trouble falling asleep—can be a sign of mental health difficulties. The same goes for big changes in how you eat. If you’re eating way more or less than usual, it could be time to check in with us.
You don't enjoy things you used to.
If you no longer like activities that once made you happy or if you’re avoiding friends and family, that might be a warning sign. Feeling disconnected from your life or your loved ones is a good reason to reach out for support.
Your body feels bad for no clear reason.
Mental health affects your body, too. If you’re often having headaches, stomachaches or other pains without a clear reason a doctor can find, it could be linked to stress, anxiety or depression. These signals from your body are worth paying attention to.
You're using unhealthy ways to cope.
If you’re turning to alcohol, drugs or other unhealthy habits to handle your feelings, it’s time to ask for help. These things might feel like they help for a little while, but they can cause more problems in the long run.
It's hard to keep up with daily life.
If everyday tasks like going to work or school now feel impossible to manage, this could be a sign you need mental health support.
A big life change happened.
Big events in life—both good and bad—can disrupt your mental health. Things like moving, breaking up with a partner, losing someone close to you or even starting a new job can be stressful. Talking to a mental health provider can help you manage these changes in a healthy way.
You're thinking about hurting yourself.
If you’re having thoughts of hurting yourself or ending your life, call or text 988 to reach the suicide and crisis lifeline for immediate help. You aren’t alone.
Getting help for your mental health is a brave step, not a sign of weakness. If you notice any of the signs above, it may be time to schedule a mental health visit with a First Stop Health provider. Ready to talk? Schedule a visit with a First Stop Health mental health provider to get started!
Care you will love.
