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Mental Wellness · article

Should you talk to someone? Taking the first step toward mental health care

A woman pondering

Have you noticed your sleep has been off for a while? Or maybe you’ve lost interest in activities you used to love? Maybe there’s a constant stream of worries filling your mind, and it feels impossible to quiet them. If this sounds familiar, you may be wondering if it’s time to talk to someone about it.

Many people find therapy a helpful way to address their mental health concerns. Millions of American adults seek therapy each year—and those numbers continue to grow.

So, if you're considering therapy, where do you begin? Here are a few things to consider:

  1. Talk to your primary care provider. They are trained to guide you on a path toward mental wellness. They can offer advice, referrals, and start the conversation about treatment.
  2. Ask a trusted friend or family member. Talking to someone who has gone through therapy can lead you to a good mental health provider or offer insights into their therapy experience.
  3. Explore your insurance plan. Learn which mental health services are covered under your insurance, are in-network, and if a copay is required.
  4. Consider virtual therapy options. Online therapy sessions are gaining interest. Virtual therapy is convenient and offers a wide range of therapists and expertise.

What kind of mental health care Is best for you?

There are many different approaches to talk therapy and medication therapy. The right one for you depends on your needs and personal preferences.

1. Talk therapy
Talk therapy is provided by a licensed mental health professional to help you better understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Some of the most well-known and researched approaches to talk therapy include:

  • Psychoanalysis and psychodynamic therapies help you uncover unconscious meanings and motivations.
  • Behavior therapy focuses on how you learned your patterns of normal or abnormal behaviors.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you identify and challenge your negative thoughts and beliefs.
  • Humanistic therapy encourages you to strive for your fullest potential through personal growth and self-actualization.

2. Medications
Research is always uncovering new ways to treat mental health conditions with medications. For some people, they’re an essential part of treatment and instantly lifechanging. For others it may take time to find the right medication or dosage that works best.

Your therapist will discuss the potential benefits and challenges of mental health medications with you. If needed, they may refer you to a psychiatrist to prescribe medicine and monitor your progress.

When to seek therapy

If you're experiencing heightened stress, shifts in mood, or significant loss or life changes, therapy might be a good choice for you. It might even surprise you how a professional therapist can guide you through life’s challenges.

Just remember, seeking help for mental health is a brave step, and it's okay to feel unsure. But it just might open new doors for self-discovery, healing, and improved mental well-being. So, don't wait to talk to someone—taking the first step could be the beginning of a life-changing journey.

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Published: April 07, 2025

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