Don’t Wait For a Crisis: You Can Get Help Now

It’s never too soon to ask for help. Too many people feel they have to be at their absolute breaking point before they can seek mental health treatment. Don’t wait for a crisis to ask for the support you need. Waiting until you hit rock bottom to ask for help can lead to disastrous consequences. It’s better to find support sooner rather than later.

At the same time, you’re far from alone if you feel like you’re having a difficult time but don’t need help yet. Many people believe things aren’t as bad as they are. Unfortunately, waiting for a crisis can mean the difference between overcoming your mental illness or substance problem and losing your life to your condition.

No one in the world can make it through life on their own. Everyone needs some help from time to time. It’s better to reach out before things reach a breaking point though, because plenty of resources are available to you. Why is it that people wait to ask for support

Why do you wait for a crisis to hit?

You’re not the only one who waits for a crisis to hit before reaching out. Think of every story you’ve read about a celebrity who came crashing down to rock bottom in front of the public eye. They have every possible avenue available to help them, yet they still fall prey to mental health problems. Why does everyone feel like they need to wait for a crisis to hit?

Humans are creatures of habit

Even if you believe you aren’t, human beings are creatures of habit. You get used to your routine, whatever it may look like, and your abilities to navigate from day-to-day. It’s not hard to find yourself stuck in a rut, even when it feels like life is harder to deal with than it should be. It might be a painful rut you’re stuck in, but your habitual nature keeps you there until you decide you’ve had enough.

Fear of change runs deep

Sometimes it feels safer to stay in a situation no matter how painful that situation might be. The fear of uprooting everything you know to make a change, even if that change is a positive one, runs deep. Think about friends you’ve talked with who complain about a relationship for months but do nothing to change it. No matter how uncomfortable you might feel in that situation, you may find that the deep-seated fear of change is more uncomfortable.

Playing the comparison game

It’s natural to look at and compare yourself to others. This applies not only to positive things going on in your life but to the negative things, too. You might notice that you have a difficult time making it through the day but then you look at someone else and tell yourself, “Well, at least I’m not that bad.” The comparison game is a deadly thing no matter what way you look at it. You shouldn’t have to wait for a crisis to hit before you realize you do need the help.

Asking for help is seen as a weakness

Despite the growing understanding that everyone needs help at times, a stigma against asking for help still exists. Many believe that asking for help means they are weak and incapable of handling life. This false belief is a dangerous thing for people battling mental health and substance abuse issues. Asking for help is the furthest thing from weakness; the willingness to admit the need for support is a sign of strength.

Concerns about consequences

Concerns about consequences are a considerable reason why people avoid asking for help. The stigma surrounding mental health and substance abuse still exists, no matter how much progress has been made. Admitting your need for help may mean you have to face some consequences. However, many places afford protections to those seeking help for a mental health condition. Treatment is included under many companies’ medical leave policies.

Not being able to afford assistance

The cost-prohibitive aspect associated with many forms of assistance also keeps people from asking for help. Though there are plenty of facilities that charge incredible sums of money to provide support, there are many that work with you to get you the help you need. Never let not being able to afford assistance be the thing that keeps you from asking for support. You’ll probably be surprised to find how many options are available if you’re willing to ask.

How can you find the help you need?

When you reach out to ask for help you’ll find many avenues open and waiting to help you. No matter who you are, you can find at least one source of support around you. What are some of the ways you can find the help you need before a crisis arises?

Community Resources

Many communities across the country offer resources and support to their residents. Though larger cities have more available due to their larger populations, you can probably find at least some type of assistance in your area. Whether it’s a community center, shelter, or even a church program, many people are dedicated to supporting people in their community. Seeking help from community resources is a fantastic place to start.

Workplace Assistance

If you have a job at a company that offers workplace assistance, you can ask for help here. Speak with your human resources department or a supervisor and admit you need some additional support. Some employers partner with certain organizations or providers to offer their employees support if needed. This may be through your company itself or an outside provider. Workplace assistance is another way to find the help you need without having to reach the point of crisis.

Support Groups

There are thousands of support groups addressing a wide range of issues that meet weekly to offer assistance. These include resources like 12-step fellowships and other recovery groups that aim to help others escape the cycle of substance abuse or behavioral addictions. Most of these support groups are free of charge and meet frequently so you can find the help and support you’re looking for.

Treatment Programs

Treatment programs are an incredible resource if you find that none of the things above work for your situation. These programs exist to equip you with the skills and tools needed to manage your mental illness or dual diagnosis. There are various levels of care and treatment modalities available depending on your particular situation and needs.

Clearview Treatment Programs is a lead provider of mental health and dual diagnosis services in Southern California. We understand the fear that comes with asking for help but are also knowledgeable about the importance of seeking support before a crisis arises.

If you’re concerned about your mental health or substance use, reach out to us. We’re here to help every step of the way whether you’re ready to get help right now or simply aren’t sure where to turn. Connect with one of our admissions counselors here at Clearview Treatment Programs and let us know what you’re struggling with. We can connect you with the support you need today!