We wait on average 11 years between the onset of symptoms of mental health problems and getting treatment, according to the US National Alliance on Mental Illness.
“While some situational issues may improve, many conditions can worsen when left, with serious consequences,” says Durban counselling psychologist Rakhi Beekrum. These include suicide (from severe depression), social isolation (from worsening anxiety), ruined relationships or careers (from ADHD/bipolar disorder), and dangerous behaviour (from severe bipolar disorder or schizophrenia).
Recognise the common barriers to seeking help
Research suggests there can be a variety of barriers to reaching out for help:
• Fear of being judged: Some people fear public stigma in being labelled mentally ill, or self-stigma can result in feelings of shame around it, so they avoid a formal diagnosis, says Beekrum.
• Minimising symptoms: Other people downplay symptoms as temporary stress or personality quirks rather than a potentially serious health issue, hoping they will resolve on their own.
• A desire for self-reliance: A strong, often culturally driven belief in handling problems alone and ‘toughing them out’ can lead men, especially, to avoid professional help until they reach a crisis point – or to not seek it at all, she says.
• Lack of mental health knowledge: Despite growing awareness, many people do not recognise their symptoms as a mental health condition or know where to find help.
• Fear of treatment: Treatment usually entails therapy and medication, and some people fear side effects of the medication, such as weight gain, changes in personality or dependency. “In fact, proper medical supervision and adherence can significantly reduce the severity and likelihood of side effects,” says Beekrum. “Also, the possible side effects are sometimes much safer than the impact of avoiding treatment – for example, using substances instead.”
• Structural or economic barriers: The costs of treatment and medication can prevent people seeking them. However, today most of those who have medical aid are covered for mental health consultations (psychiatrists/psychologists) and medication, driven by Prescribed Minimum Benefits for chronic conditions like depression and bipolar disorder. Coverage generally includes in-hospital treatment for crises and outpatient therapy sessions, though it often requires using designated service providers. For those without medical aid, accessing mental health care can be challenging, as there are relatively few mental health professionals serving large numbers of people in state facilities. “Many people also find it difficult getting off work to attend sessions, and fear their employers discovering the reason they are taking time off, and judging them incompetent,” Beekrum says.
How to overcome the barriers
Take steps to protect your mental health:
1. Get informed by reading up on mental health and whatever problem you suspect you may have, using websites of reputable medical facilities or universities, or of mental health support groups such as the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) or the SA Federation for Mental Health (SAFMH).
2. If taking time off work for to attend therapy is difficult, or there is none offered near you, explore telehealth sessions. SADAG and the non-profit Heal-SA also offer free online mental health services. “Many mental health professionals now offer virtual sessions, and it’s become commonplace for therapy sessions to take place during lunchbreaks – even in one’s vehicle,” says Beekrum.
3. Recognise and address stigma by educating yourself and connecting with others who have similar conditions. SADAG and Heal-SA run online support groups.
4. Be proactive: Prioritise your physical health – regular exercise, adequate sleep and a balanced diet help create a buffer against stress, Beekrum says. Practise mindfulness to stay present and reduce anxiety, and self-care. Engage in activities that bring you joy, whether a hobby or being in nature. Limit exposure to what brings you down, such as too much time on social media and using alcohol or substances to deal with stress.
5. Above all, seek health early. If you notice signs of a mental health problem, such as persistent low mood, overwhelming anxiety, changes in sleep and appetite, or withdrawal, speak to your primary care health provider or a mental health professional, even if symptoms seem minor. “The longer treatment is delayed, the more ingrained symptoms can get, and the harder to treat,” Beekrum says.
New Clicks Clinic Service: Mental Health Support
Selected Clicks Clinics now offer Mental Health Support consultations. Get confidential, professional mental health support with stress, depression, anxiety, burnout, and emotional challenges. Find out more and book an appointment.
Get support: SAFMH (www.safmh.org, 011 781 1852), SADAG (www.sadag.org, 0800 567 567, SMS 32312), and HEAL-SA (heal-sa.org.za, 010 880 3334, WhatsApp 066 323 6869). If you’re in immediate distress, seek urgent medical help.
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