Posted by Racer on November 22, 2008, at 14:49:15
In reply to Uninsured- any mental health resources out there?, posted by Mickapoo on November 22, 2008, at 13:21:28
It depends largely on where you're located.
I was uninsured for ten years, and you're absolutely right -- it's hard to find mental health care. It is possible, however -- I found both medications and therapy.
One place to check local resources is NAMI, they should have a semi-local chapter near you. Another option is to call your local county health department. In fact, check to see what your county has as far as Department of Mental Health. Most larger, more urban areas will have one.
Sometimes those local health clinics will have mental health options, as well -- although that depends on such factors as what sort of service you're looking for. If you're looking for medications, they'll almost certainly be able to help -- although they may not have the experience and expertise that a psychopharmacologist would have. Therapy is generally harder to find, but even there it's often hiding from you. It's often just a matter of finding it.
One piece of advice, if you're suffering from depression: see if you can find a good and trusted friend who's willing to do some of the research for you. Sometimes depression colors your view enough that you don't see the resource which really is there.
Another suggestion is local peer support groups. As well as being a great resource for support, they often know of resources it would take you a long time to find on your own.
I hope that helps. Good luck to you.
poster:Racer
thread:864654
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20081114/msgs/864688.html