Navigating life with a mental health diagnosis already requires more out of you, so when treatment stops working, it’s hard. You feel stuck, overwhelmed, and like everything you do isn’t enough. If this sounds like you, it may be time to pursue more intensive support.
Recognize the signs that your body and mind may signal that more comprehensive care is in order. Consider these common red flags; if any of them align with your experience, reach out for help.
1. Daily Life is a Struggle
The cartoons of your youth may have overprepared you for the prevalence of quicksand, but now it’s your reality. When daily life makes you feel like you’re sinking, getting heavier, and unable to do basic tasks, pay attention.
Daily tasks like going to work, engaging in relationships, and caring for yourself should generally be achievable. But if your mental health challenges aren’t managed, these things easily slip by the wayside.
Observe your routine and think about the last time you showered, brushed your teeth, or cleaned your space. If reality is surprising, you may struggle with self-care and hygiene as your body tries to keep you safe.
Reduce the overwhelm and the pressure on yourself to do all the things and consider mental health rehab. In this comprehensive care setting, you can relinquish your responsibilities while you recenter and heal. You’ll have support to help you manage your diagnosis and develop positive habits and self-care skills.
2. Current Strategies Aren’t Working Like They Used To
Some people have gone to therapy so many times they ought to have a rewards program to show for it. But frequent attendance doesn’t necessarily mean progress, so now is the time to let go of any -held expectations.
If you’ve been in therapy for years and haven’t seen progress, you may need new strategies or a new therapist. You may feel obligated to continue with your therapist, especially as working with a new one may add stress. Please do your best to resist the temptation to stick with what you know, even when it’s not serving you.
A good therapist’s goal should be to help you improve and, if you’re not improving with their approach, break ties. Similarly, if your medication is no longer effective, speak with your prescriber. Some medications are less effective over time or may need to be cycled or adjusted.
Please don’t sit silently and suffer; speak up to the healthcare providers who’ve dedicated their careers to helping others. Strive to advocate for yourself and for effective medication and therapy as you manage your mental health.
3. Feelings of Hopelessness Outweigh the Positive
Bad days happen, but if every day seems bad, sometimes worse than before, pay attention. Assess what happened that day and if, on paper, it was truly that bad. If the recap doesn’t indicate tragedies, it may mean that you may need increased care for your mental health.
There’s nothing to be ashamed of when basic life has you down; Life is not a competition, and your ability to manage challenges and stress doesn’t indicate your worth.
If you’re consistently disconnected from life, you owe it to yourself to seek additional care. Your life is important, and you are important. Get to the root of the issue with customized support, medication review, and comprehensive care at an inpatient facility.
4. Crisis Situations Intensify, Increase, or Both
There’s no “right” frequency for crises, but if you’re having more panic attacks, episodes, or suicidal thoughts, pay attention. Often, this is your body’s way of getting your attention, signaling that something is wrong.
Outside factors like stress, work, or family can sometimes influence crises, making them hard to manage. However, if your home life is unhealthy, getting away from it while you heal can help you create a plan. Ideally, you can tend to your mental health needs while formulating a long-term solution for your care and lifestyle.
Identify potential triggers and consider how you can change their influence or prevalence. If your workplace is toxic, look for a role that allows you to maintain your quality of life. Find ways to reduce stress and increase flexibility, giving you time to manage your mental health.
5. You’re Self-Medicating or Turning to Risky Behaviors
When you’re hopeless, you can feel numb; sometimes, people seek a thrill to feel again. This behavior can quickly turn risky as unsafe choices like street racing, taking drugs, and self-harm take hold.
Be honest with yourself about why you do the things you do and to what extent. While some states have lessened their restrictions on marijuana and cannabis products, think about how you’re using them. If you’re using illegal drugs, assess how they may be impacting your well-being.
When your risks can cause harm to others, consider this your wake-up call. If you’re responsible for caring for a child or older parent but are taking drugs at the same time, you may need help. When you choose to numb the pain despite the consequences, you need more intensive treatment to heal.
Recognizing You Need Help is the First Step Toward Healing
If you’re struggling, it’s OK to ask for help. Some experts and caregivers’ve dedicated their careers to helping others through their mental challenges. Advocate for your mental well-being and be open to inpatient care that’s customized for your needs. When you do, you’ll learn new coping strategies, heal, and regain control of your life.
