We all know mental health is incredibly important to our overall wellbeing and happiness.
Unfortunately, it is sometimes the one thing we neglect to care for, given all of life’s other demands.
While it is a worldwide problem, we have unique challenges in Australia as well.
In fact, nearly 20 percent of Australians experience some form of mental health struggles in any given year, according to recent reports.
These mental health struggles can manifest themselves in many different diagnoses, like:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Isolation
- Loneliness
- Drug or substance abuse
But the good news is – therapy, a safe place where you can get helpful advice from a licensed professional, can help. In fact, more than 75 percent of Australians said their mental health improved after receiving mental health care services.
Deciding to look for a therapist is a big, personal decision that requires thoughtful deliberation and consideration. However, there are some things to look out for as you navigate this experience. We’ve done the research and pulled together a quick list to help you make this decision.
Where do I start?
To start, you may want to ask around for some recommendations for licensed therapists and counselors. The best place to start is with people you already know. For example, you could ask a trusted medical professional, like your doctor, for good recommendations. Or, if you’re comfortable talking to your family and friends about looking for a therapist, you could also ask your friends and family for their own mental health journey or any professional recommendations they may have.
Another great place to start is to see what your insurance provider or your employee assistance program offers. Your insurance provider likely has a website where you can filter through in-network health care providers. Your employer may also have special partnerships or even available discounts for certain providers.
Another option is to do a quick search on the internet for highly rated professional therapists in your area, read more about their practices online and schedule an appointment to learn more.
What about the cost?
The cost of therapy can vary from therapist, to practice to even the city you live in.
The initial and ongoing costs for services can be a challenge for many people. And, it’s often a major reason people choose to prolong therapy, sometimes indefinitely.
A few options to find affordable therapy:
- Working with your insurance provider can help you find a provider within your budget.
- Some non-profit or faith-based organisations may offer free access to group therapy sessions or even one-on-one sessions that you can take advantage of.
Online or In-Person?
Don’t forget that online counselling or therapy is also a really great option for many people – and it’s proven to be just as effective as in-person therapy sessions. It is oftentimes also much more affordable than traditional sessions.
Sometimes, more traditional in-person therapy sessions can be more expensive. And they can be harder to fit into your schedule as it requires taking time off work, traveling to an office, and more. Research shows that online sessions are equally as effective as in-person therapy sessions as well.
Today’s environment has created more mental health issues than in years past, but it also means we have more resources available to us to help us care for our minds and our bodies.
Deciding to seek mental health services is a big decision – but the most important thing you can do is just start your research! If you don’t connect with a therapist, you can always book appointments with other therapists in your area until you find one who helps you.
