According to the National Institute of Mental Health, mental illness affects millions of Americans, but only about half of those affected get treatment. If you are experiencing mental health issues, when should you get help? And what type of help is right for you?
Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Therapist: What’s the Difference?
Psychiatrists are medical doctors and have medical training specializing in mental illness and/or substance use. Psychiatrists can write prescriptions and may offer psychotherapy, or talk therapy, to their patients.
Psychologists usually have a doctoral degree, a Ph.D. in clinical or counseling psychology, and they can also do research or education. They can treat patients using psychotherapy and are trained in making psychiatric diagnoses.
Psychologists can work in clinical, research or educational fields. Unlike psychiatrists, psychologists do not prescribe medication. Psychologists who provide talk therapy are often referred to as “therapists.”
Not all therapists are doctorate-level psychologists. "Therapist" is a broader term that can also refer to masters-level clinicians who are trained and licensed in a variety of fields to help people.
Such therapists include:
- Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), who are social workers that meet specific requirements to provide mental health services such as diagnostics and therapy.
- Licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs), who are mental health professionals with specialized training in the dynamics of relationships and families.
- Licensed professional counselors (LPCs), who are mental health professionals that provide counseling to individuals, couples, families and other groups.
Some therapists practice in specialty fields, such as:
- Psychoanalysts, who are mental health professionals practicing psychoanalysis, a specific type of therapy based on finding the root cause of mental health issues.
- School counselors, who are educational professionals with specialized training in helping students handle academic, career and social-emotional needs.
Though there are many professionals who claim to be therapists, it’s a good idea to find someone who is accredited and licensed to work in their field. If you are looking for a mental health professional, talk to your doctor about what type of therapy is right for you.
When Should I Seek Help for Mental Health Issues?
There are many different mental health issues, and they can affect people differently. If you are concerned about changes in your mental health or are experiencing any of the following symptoms, get help right away.
Warning signs of mental illness include:
- Mood changes: Drastic changes in your moods or emotions in a short period of time
- Problems thinking: Problems with concentration, memory, speech or logical thought
- Apathy: Losing interest in activities or people
- Sleep or appetite changes: Either a substantial decrease or increase in sleep or appetite
- Feeling disconnected: Having a sense of unreality or not being able to connect with others or even yourself
- Decrease in functioning: Quitting school, jobs or activities or not being able to perform familiar tasks
- Unusual behavior: Odd or uncharacteristic behavior
- Misusing substances, such as drugs and alcohol to cope or manage feelings
- Changes in self-esteem and confidence: Feeling overwhelmed with tasks and unable to function at the same level of effectiveness, struggling with self-doubt, or not trusting in yourself
Is Online Therapy Right for Me?
For one reason or another, it’s often more comfortable to have therapy sessions in the comfort of your own home. Many people today choose to do online therapy and many mental health professionals now offer sessions virtual (online) or over the phone.
Some of the benefits of virtual sessions, or E therapy, include:
- Convenient: You can do sessions online from home without having to worry about commuting
- Safe: Many people feel more comfortable discussing difficult topics in their own homes
- A great way to start therapy: Many people can be afraid of starting therapy. With the convenience of doing sessions online, it might be easier to give therapy a try
Some of the downfalls of online therapy include:
- Technology issues: Wrestling with your computer or phone to do a session can be tough for some
- Insurance may not cover it: Make sure to check with your insurance to see if they’ll cover your sessions
- It’s virtual: There may be benefits from being able to connect and see your therapist face to face in a way that a virtual visit might not provide
How to Talk with Your Doctor About Mental Illness
If you’re concerned about your mental health, talk with your doctor. These tips can make the conversation easier, so you can get the help you need:
- Keep a list of symptoms, your moods and other behavioral or mental changes to show your doctor.
- Make sure your doctor has your full medical history including what prescriptions, supplements and over-the-counter medications you are taking.
- Find a doctor you can trust and be honest about your mental health.
- Write down notes, questions or concerns to reference during your doctor visit.
- Consider bringing a friend or family member with you who can support and help you during the visit. They might be able to help understand what the doctor is telling you as well as remember and share any mental health changes they’ve seen in you.
Choosing the Right Mental Health Professional
Finding the right mental health professional may take a bit of trial and error. You want to find a counselor or therapist you’re comfortable with and one who offers the specific mental health care you need.
The first step is talking with your primary care provider about what you’re experiencing. Your provider can help you determine your next steps, including which type of mental health professional might work best for your specific needs.
Primary Care at University Health
If you do not have a primary care provider, our team of professionals are here to care for you. Schedule an appointment today at any of our locations.
We offer primary care for both adults and children. You have the choice of making an in-person appointment, as well as a telemedicine (virtual) appointment if you are unable to go to go to one of our clinics.
Talk to your primary care provider to get a referral.
