With all of the information on mental health care, it’s often difficult to just access mental health services and advocacy groups. We’re about to cut through the fluff and get straight to the point on a topic that matters deeply to us – mental health.
We’re breaking down the essentials of accessing mental health services and tapping into the world of mental health advocacy groups. Life’s messy, and so is this journey. We hope we can be of assistance to anyone wanting to work on their mental well-being, help a loved one get treatment, or support advocacy groups.
Access Mental Health Services
First and foremost, the easiest way to access help when you immediately need it is to call or text 988 for a 24/7 crisis center. For a quick chat, drop a message to a crisis counselor at 741741. If it’s a real emergency, or you feel you are in crisis, don’t hesitate – call 911 or head straight to the nearest emergency room. Your well-being is the top priority, so reach out however works best for you.
If you are not in crisis, we will continue to provide some accessibility that we are aware of for accessing a wide array of services.
Types of Mental Health Services
Mental health services come in various forms to cater to different needs. With the different types of services, we will list them and go through what each is, how it works, and who it is generally for. Please note, that we are not medical professionals, nor behavioral health or mental health specialists. We are mental health advocates, simply sharing information since this is a field we have navigated as we work on our own health needs and feel it to be important to share. Please see our terms and conditions for more in-depth information.
1. Therapy and Counseling
- What it is: One-on-one sessions with a trained therapist or counselor.
- How it works: You discuss your thoughts, feelings, and challenges, and the therapist helps you explore and navigate them.
- Who it’s for: Anyone dealing with various mental health concerns or seeking personal growth.
We recommend using Mental Health Match to find a therapist to match your needs. It is free to use and is so easy. I, Shannon, and Gerry, both, found our therapists using Mental Health Match. We also have recommended it to family and friends and have received only positive feedback regarding success in a therapy match.
2. Psychiatric Services
- What it is: Treatment provided by psychiatrists, often involving medication management.
- How it works: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose mental illnesses, prescribe medication, and offer other forms of treatment. They often work side-by-side with your therapist, but not always.
- Who it’s for: Individuals with mental health conditions who may require medication as part of their treatment plan.
3. Support Groups
- What it is: Joining a group of individuals who share similar experiences or challenges.
- How it works: Participants offer mutual support, understanding, and encouragement based on their shared experiences.
- Who it’s for: People who benefit from connecting with others who’ve faced similar struggles.
I, Shannon, joined a support group during my grieving process and found this to be very difficult. Some people have great success with peer support. I found it to be draining, and not conducive to my healing. It is worth giving it a try. I am glad I did, so I know what it is about and how to explain it to others in case they find that modality to be beneficial.
4. Hotlines and Crisis Intervention
- What it is: Immediate assistance during mental health crises through phone calls, texts, or online chats.
- How it works: Trained professionals provide support, resources, and guidance during urgent situations.
- Who it’s for: Anyone in need of immediate help during a mental health emergency.
As mentioned at the beginning of this blog post, if you are in an emergency, you can call or text 988 to reach someone. There are also other crisis lines like the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or you can visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ It is often helpful to chat with someone so you can know that you are not alone, and/or gain an assessment when you feel you are in serious mental health crisis.
5. Rehabilitation Services
- What it is: Programs supporting the recovery and reintegration of individuals dealing with severe mental illnesses.
- How it works: Focuses on skill-building, therapy, and support to help individuals regain independence.
- Who it’s for: Those with severe mental health conditions aiming for recovery and community integration.
For those who have been hospitalized, please consult with your social worker to link you with a professional. If you are seeking to begin work in a rehabilitation center or service, please visit FindSupport.gov
This website is for SAMHSA, short for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. SAMHSA takes the helm of public health initiatives within the United States Government Department of Health and Human Services.
Their mission is to propel the nation’s behavioral health services forward to be available to all.
6. Community Mental Health Services
- What it is: Accessible mental health care services provided within the community.
- How it works: Services are offered locally, making mental health support more readily available.
- Who it’s for: Individuals seeking community-based mental health resources and services.
I, Shannon, used to work for ACTT (Assertive Community Treatment Team) when I first graduated college. It was a community-based mental health service that served individuals in their own homes.
The team consisted of a therapist, a psychiatrist, a nurse, a mental health qualified professional, associate professional, and a peer support specialist. The goal was to bridge the gap in the need of mental health services and re-hospitalization.
ACTT is just one form of community mental health service available. For more information on what is available near you, contact your local county health department.
7. Online Mental Health Platforms
- What it is: Virtual therapy, counseling, and support available through digital platforms.
- How it works: Offers convenience and accessibility for individuals to connect with mental health professionals online.
- Who it’s for: Those who prefer or require remote access to mental health support.
Mental Health Match is the platform we recommended to find a therapist. One of the options available is to seek a professional who offers telehealth/virtual sessions. It is what me and Gerry both do for our therapy sessions. If you are someone who needs technical assistance, you may not find it as comfortable but it is always worth a try. Don’t let tech issues be a barrier between you and help.
8. Peer Support
- What it is: Assistance from individuals with lived experiences, offering empathy and understanding.
- How it works: Peers share their journeys, providing support based on their understanding of similar struggles.
- Who it’s for: People who find comfort and guidance in connecting with others who’ve faced similar challenges.
Similar to support groups, this is a service that is offered by those who have walked in your shoes, or at least had a similar experience. This is usually one-on-one, rather than a group setting. If you are seeking more information on peer support, you can find it on the SAMHSA website.
These services provide a diverse range of options, allowing individuals to choose what aligns best with their needs and preferences. There is so much that factors on all of the offerings, like, insurance, financial ability to pay out of pocket if applicable, etc. Always ask about sliding fee scales or options to receive services without payment. Some organizations have funding available for those in need.
Mental Health Advocacy Services and Groups
Are you someone who wants to get more involved, and support groups who advocate for mental health improvement in the lives of people who need it most? Well, join the club, friend. There are plenty of great organizations that are doing wonderful things to assist those with mental health disabilities.
Some mental health advocacy groups offer support for family members. Some groups have links to legal representation, legal advice, and people who can help advocate for those with severe mental illness and no support.
Here are mental health advocacy groups we are involved with, support, and would like to share their mission within each non-profit organization.
Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and co-occurring disorders through education, practice, and research.
Kevin Berthia Foundation
Kevin Berthia, a multiple attempt suicide survivor, created the Kevin Berthia Foundation, which was created to give those individuals who suffer in silence with both undiagnosed and diagnosed mental health conditions a voice of hope. You can listen to our conversation with Kevin Berthia on The Arner Adventures Podcast.
One Mind
One Mind is a non-profit organization focused on advancing research and support for individuals affected by brain health disorders, particularly those related to mental health. This organization is dedicated to accelerating and improving brain research by fostering collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and philanthropists.
Not One More Vet
Not One More Vet (NOMV) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support and resources for veterinarians and veterinary professionals facing mental health challenges. The organization was founded to address the high rates of stress, burnout, and mental health issues within the veterinary profession.
We align closely with this organization as we have known a number of people in the animal healthcare field who have lost their lives by suicide.
The Trevor Project
The Trevor Project focuses on providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ youth. The organization was founded in 1998 and has since been a leading advocate for the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those in their youth and young adults.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
The AFSP is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness, providing support, and funding research to prevent suicide. Their efforts focus on prevention and special education efforts, as well as research funding. They have peer supports and community engagement efforts.
Reduce the Stigma of Mental Health in America
Take a look around at the many blog posts we have on the topic of mental health. We feel it is important to talk about it, making it a part of general conversation, and reducing the stigma that usually is associated with mental illness. We are open about dealing with our mental health issues and, therefore want to be as supportive as possible when it comes to what is available.
If you want to become even more active in the movement toward improving mental health policy and mental health law in your state or area, support legislative advocacy, visit NAMI Alliance Federal Advocacy. They also have state NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness) chapters where you can get connected with state legislators in the area where you reside.
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
There are affordable options, such as community mental health centers, sliding scale fees, and online platforms with reduced costs. Some therapists also offer pro bono services. Contact your county social services to learn more about the legal rights of low-income adults and the offerings available to you.
Offer a listening ear, express empathy, and encourage them to seek professional help. Help them research available resources and accompany them to appointments if needed. Talking is the only way to reduce the stigma associated with mental health.
You can start by educating others, sharing your own experiences, organizing events, and supporting or participating in mental health initiatives. Many organizations welcome volunteers for advocacy work.
