Published: May 20, 2019
Mental Health Month was started 70 years ago as a national health observance by Mental Health America. Their goal is to raise awareness about mental health conditions and the importance of good mental health for everyone.
Doctors now look at the whole person and not just the physical health, known as 360 degree health, because they know that good mental health has a significant impact on a person’s overall health and well-being.
The Facts
Mental health illnesses or conditions are quite common. In fact, one in five people are affected by a mental health condition in the United States – that’s about 60 million people. The good news? They are also treatable.
How do you know if you have a mental illness?
Signs that you may need to seek help can be different for each person. Examples of some warning signs can include withdrawal from work or social activities, problems with concentration or memory, changes in sleep or appetite, and mood changes. The types of symptoms and the degree of severity can also vary. That’s why seeking professional help sooner than later is important so treatment can be started early and you can start feeling better. It can also help prevent the symptoms from becoming worse. Talking with your primary care doctor is always a good first step. You can also contact your behavioral health provider directly without a referral.
Help is Here
When you or someone you love is dealing with a mental health concern, sometimes it can be a lot to handle for everyone involved. Often, many go untreated and for different reasons. Some are ashamed to seek care and feel they should be able to handle it themselves. Others are concerned about being seen as weak or “crazy.” Yet, nothing could be further from the truth. Asking for help takes courage. It also takes accepting that we all need help at some time in our lives.
Western Health Advantage wants everyone to know that mental illnesses are treatable, that recovery is always the goal, and if you or someone you love is suffering, there is help.
“It is important to understand the early symptoms of mental illness and know when there’s a need for treatment,” said Dr. Don Hufford, Chief Medical Officer of WHA. “We need to speak up early and educate people about mental illness – and do so in a compassionate, judgement-free way. Prevention, early identification and intervention, and integrated services work.”
WHA’s Behavioral Health Services
WHA members can self-refer to see a behavioral health specialist by contacting the behavioral health provider for prior authorization. Visit mywha.org/bh for more info.
Here are some helpful online resources: