Struggling with mental health? You’re not alone, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Mental health affects millions: In 2022, 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experienced mental illness, but many didn’t seek treatment.
- Why people avoid help: Stigma, self-doubt, and access barriers often prevent people from reaching out.
- Support is available: Virtual therapy, online psychiatry, and crisis support are breaking down these barriers, making care more accessible.
- Taking action matters: Watch for signs like sleep, appetite, or focus changes lasting over two weeks – these could indicate it’s time to seek professional help.
You deserve care and support. Whether through trusted friends, licensed professionals, or digital tools, taking the first step can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Common Reasons People Avoid Help
Social Pressure and Mental Health
Mental health struggles are more common than people think, yet stigma often stands in the way of getting help. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), stigma involves "negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes people may hold towards those who experience mental health conditions". These societal pressures often delay treatment, making it harder for individuals to seek support early. This hesitation can lead to a cycle of self-doubt and worsening symptoms over time.
Common Doubts About Treatment
Many people wrestle with internal barriers that prevent them from reaching out for help. One major hurdle is self-stigma – when individuals adopt negative beliefs about their own mental health challenges. Here are some common doubts and the realities that counter them:
| Doubt | Reality |
|---|---|
| "I should be able to handle this on my own" | Mental health conditions are medical issues, and professional care is often essential. |
| "Treatment won’t work for me" | Modern therapies and treatments have helped countless people manage and recover. |
| "Asking for help makes me weak" | Seeking help shows self-awareness and strength, not weakness. |
"Mental health conditions are common, and more treatments are available than ever to help people cope, recover, and thrive."
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
These internal struggles are often compounded by external, practical challenges.
Access Barriers to Mental Health Care
Even when someone is ready to seek support, practical barriers can stand in the way. In 2020, only 46% of U.S. adults with mental health conditions received specialized care. For many, the obstacles were significant: 17% lacked adequate insurance, and around 60 million people in rural areas faced long travel times to access services.
However, digital solutions have started to change the landscape. For example, virtual mental health services saw a massive increase in use – from less than 1% in 2019 to 55% among rural patients between March and August 2021. In comparison, 35% of urban patients used these services during the same period. This rapid growth shows how technology is beginning to break down traditional barriers, offering new opportunities for care.
How to Get Mental Health Support
How to Talk About Mental Health
Opening up about mental health can be a powerful step toward healing. When you’re ready to share, choose someone you trust – whether it’s a friend, family member, or mentor – and speak openly about what you’re going through and what you need.
Here are a few ways to start the conversation:
- "I need someone to listen."
- "I think I need professional help, but I don’t know where to start."
- "I’m struggling to manage my emotions and could use your support."
"Having people to support you does not make you weak! Having a strong social support network actually makes you more capable of problem solving on your own and being resilient because a support system nurtures your autonomy, confidence, and self-esteem." – Caitlin Harper
This kind of personal openness works well alongside digital tools that make mental health support more accessible.
Online Mental Health Services
Televero Health offers virtual therapy and counseling options that eliminate many of the traditional hurdles to getting care:
| Service Type | Benefits | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Virtual Therapy | No travel, flexible scheduling | Same-day appointments, HIPAA-compliant sessions |
| Online Psychiatry | Medication management from home | Licensed practitioners, secure appointments |
| Crisis Support | Immediate help | Available for all ages |
These services are accessible via computer or smartphone, accept insurance, and offer self-pay options. For those without insurance, CareCredit is also available.
While online resources are convenient, building strong personal connections is just as important for long-term support.
Building Your Support Network
A well-rounded support system combines professional care with personal relationships. The American Psychological Association‘s 2022 Stress in America survey found that over half of respondents felt they needed more emotional support since the pandemic began.
To create a strong support network, consider these three elements:
- Professional Support: Mental health professionals bring expertise and objectivity. Start by reaching out to:
- Personal Connections: Strengthen your bonds with friends and family, or find community through local groups, faith-based organizations, or online forums focused on mental health.
- Self-Care Resources: Daily habits like exercise, meditation, journaling, and stress management can complement professional support.
"Nurturing relationships early prepares you to handle future challenges effectively." – Caitlin Harper
Moving Past Mental Health Stigma
Changing Mental Health Beliefs
Misunderstandings about mental health often fuel stigma, despite the fact that 1 in 5 Americans experiences mental health challenges each year. Let’s break down some common myths and the facts that debunk them:
| Misconception | Reality | Supporting Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Mental illness equals violence | Only 3–5% of violent acts are linked to individuals with mental illness | People with serious mental health conditions are 10 times more likely to be victims of violence |
| Mental health problems are rare | 450 million people worldwide live with mental health conditions | Depression alone impacts over 264 million people globally |
| Only women have eating disorders | Males make up 10–25% of anorexia and bulimia cases | Men account for 25% of binge eating disorder cases |
| Mental illness prevents employment | 54.5% of individuals with severe conditions are employed | With the right support, many excel in their careers |
"People with mental illness are much more often the victims of violence rather than the perpetrators."
– Sir Graham Thornicroft, Professor of Community Psychiatry at King’s College London
By addressing these myths, we pave the way for a more informed and compassionate approach to mental health.
Building Mental Health Skills
Developing coping skills for mental health is crucial, especially since half of all adults with mental health challenges first experience symptoms before age 14.
Now that misconceptions are being tackled, it’s time to focus on actionable steps:
- Practice Open Communication
Sharing personal experiences can make a difference. As Angela Christie Roach Taylor shares:
"I fight stigma by talking about what it is like to have bipolar disorder and PTSD on Facebook. Even if this helps just one person, it is worth it for me."
- Own Your Narrative
Taking control of how you view yourself is empowering.
"I fight stigma by choosing to live an empowered life. To me, that means owning my life and my story and refusing to allow others to dictate how I view myself or how I feel about myself."
- Normalize Treatment
Seeking professional help should be as routine as visiting a primary care doctor.
"I fight stigma by saying that I see a therapist and a psychiatrist. Why can people say they have an appointment with their primary care doctor without fear of being judged, but this lack of fear does not apply when it comes to mental health professionals?"
Platforms like Televero Health offer a secure and supportive environment where you can connect with board-licensed professionals through HIPAA-compliant virtual sessions. This ensures consistent, judgment-free care as you work on building these essential skills.
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Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health
Conclusion: Take Care of Your Mental Health
Your mental health deserves as much attention as your physical health. In the U.S., where over half of counties lack access to psychiatrists, virtual mental health services have become a lifeline for countless individuals. Taking the first step to seek help is a show of strength, not weakness, and it can open the door to meaningful change.
With modern advancements, you can now access secure, HIPAA-compliant virtual sessions with licensed professionals – removing the hurdles of travel and rigid schedules.
"When you’re ready, we’re here to listen – with no pressure, no labels – just support." – Televero Health
If you’re ready to start prioritizing your mental well-being, here are some practical steps to consider:
| Action Step | What to Do | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Assess Yourself | Take a free mental health evaluation | Gain clarity about your mental health status |
| Professional Help | Book a virtual appointment within the week | Get personalized guidance and support |
| Build Connections | Join online support groups or community forums | Connect with others facing similar challenges |
| Crisis Support | Save the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number | Access 24/7 professional help in emergencies |
These steps can help you turn moments of vulnerability into opportunities for growth.
Efforts to expand mental health care continue to make a difference. For example, in April 2025, Televero Health hosted a free webinar led by Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr. Seth McGowan. The event focused on managing childhood anxiety, highlighting how virtual platforms can provide critical support and education for families and educators alike.
FAQs
What can I do if I notice I’m struggling with my mental health?
Recognizing that you’re dealing with mental health challenges is a brave and important step. From there, taking practical actions can make a real difference:
- Learn about mental health: Understanding more about mental health can help you make sense of your emotions and experiences. It might also shed light on factors contributing to your struggles.
- Keep track of your feelings: Use a journal or a mood-tracking app to note patterns in your emotions and thoughts. This can help you spot triggers and gain clarity.
- Seek support: Open up to someone you trust – a friend, family member, or a mental health professional. Reaching out for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a courageous move toward healing.
If things feel too overwhelming or you’re in a crisis, call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Taking care of your mental health is one of the strongest and most compassionate things you can do for yourself.
How do virtual mental health services make therapy more accessible?
Virtual mental health services remove many of the hurdles that come with traditional face-to-face therapy. One major advantage is flexibility – sessions can be scheduled around your life, whether that’s over lunch or after a long day at work. Plus, you can join from the comfort of your home, making it both private and convenient.
Another benefit? No travel required. This not only saves time but also cuts down on costs, which is especially helpful for people living in rural or remote areas where finding in-person therapy might be a challenge. By making therapy more accessible, virtual options give more individuals the chance to focus on their mental health without added stress.
Why is building a support network important when addressing mental health challenges?
Building a support network plays a key role in maintaining mental health. It helps to ease feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can take a toll on both your mind and body. A solid support system provides emotional comfort, practical advice, and help with daily challenges, making tough times more manageable.
Trusting relationships can also inspire you to stay motivated and stick to positive habits, laying the groundwork for lasting mental health benefits. Being around supportive people reinforces the idea that you’re not alone and encourages you to focus on taking care of yourself.
Related posts
- No Struggle Too Small: How Therapy Helps Even When You Think You ‘Don’t Need It’
- Standing Your Ground: Overcoming Family or Social Pressure Against Therapy
- Shattering Stereotypes: Why Seeking Therapy Doesn’t Make You Weak
- Standing Tall: How to Pursue Therapy When Loved Ones Don’t Understand
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Recognizing that you’re dealing with mental health challenges is a brave and important step. From there, taking practical actions can make a real difference:
- Learn about mental health: Understanding more about mental health can help you make sense of your emotions and experiences. It might also shed light on factors contributing to your struggles.
- Keep track of your feelings: Use a journal or a mood-tracking app to note patterns in your emotions and thoughts. This can help you spot triggers and gain clarity.
- Seek support: Open up to someone you trust – a friend, family member, or a mental health professional. Reaching out for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a courageous move toward healing.
If things feel too overwhelming or you’re in a crisis, call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Taking care of your mental health is one of the strongest and most compassionate things you can do for yourself.
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Virtual mental health services remove many of the hurdles that come with traditional face-to-face therapy. One major advantage is flexibility – sessions can be scheduled around your life, whether that’s over lunch or after a long day at work. Plus, you can join from the comfort of your home, making it both private and convenient.
Another benefit? No travel required. This not only saves time but also cuts down on costs, which is especially helpful for people living in rural or remote areas where finding in-person therapy might be a challenge. By making therapy more accessible, virtual options give more individuals the chance to focus on their mental health without added stress.
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Trusting relationships can also inspire you to stay motivated and stick to positive habits, laying the groundwork for lasting mental health benefits. Being around supportive people reinforces the idea that you’re not alone and encourages you to focus on taking care of yourself.
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