The First Steps to Getting Help
When you first accept that you might need help, it's scary. There's so many questions. What if they don't believe me? What if they say I'm crazy? What if they say I'm fine and dismiss what's going on in my head?
Depending what the situation is, there's normally things you can do alone to help. Diet, exercise, socialising, working out your triggers. There's a lot of information on the mind website if you're not sure where to start. (I also like NHS Choices)
1. Doing your research
If you have an idea on what you might be experiencing (or even better know for sure) I recommend looking up how to better help yourself. The basics for most issues are the same, taking time to look after yourself mentally and physically. Also, making sure you know some of the basics can help you be familiar with terminology, then it's not so scary.
"Fear of a name increases fear of the thing itself"
2. Telling a loved one
When you decide to do this is dependent on whether you want to take the other steps alone. Having one (or more if you feel comfortable) person you tell your concerns and your plan of action can be a relief. Someone who will accept and support you with the process. If you know someone who has been in a similar situation - even better. Build your support network as soon as you can. You are not alone.
3. Telling your doctor
You can go alone or with someone you trust, but this is the first time you will be referred to treatment. Your doctor will not judge you. They are there to listen and support you. Just tell them your concerns and how you've been feeling. My doctor checked up on me once a fortnight while I was very low, recording my moods and how I was getting on with my medication*. You are more than likely to be referred to specialists to have a chat with you and see where to go from there. I have had a couple with ASTI, from there they referred me elsewhere. However, NHS waiting lists are long. Very long. Don't be afraid to check up on the status of your referral. Write down dates and phone numbers of the times you spoke to your doctor etc.
*You absolutely do not have to take medication. (Well...depending on the issue) If you are diagnosed and know that it's something you don't have to take medication for - you do not have to take it if you don't want it.
4. Financial Help
In the U.K. we're lucky enough to have a benefit system. It is complex and tedious but it's there and can be a complete game changer. I didn't know that I was entitled to ESA until a couple of years ago and really could have done with being on it to be honest. I could do a whole other post about ESA, what it is and the process of being on it (if you would like that just let me know). Just some things to note, don't be ashamed if you feel you can't work due to your mental illness. The help is there for a reason, because people need it. While you are in the application process you will get paid a basic amount to keep you afloat. You can apply online or on the phone. On the phone you speak to a real human who you can ask questions. If you prefer speaking face to face you can go down the traditional route of going to the job centre and speaking to someone there.
The main benefits I know of for people with mental health problems are ESA, PIP and Universal Credit. There may be more depending on your situation. To find out what you're eligible for, speak to someone at the job centre and they will help you or look on the GOV website.
Some people at the job centre aren't very good, so if you get someone lovely who knows what they are doing - write down their name and phone number. That way you can ensure if you need to speak to them again, you can get someone you like.
5. Extra steps
On the NHS and Mind websites you can search depending on your area for local groups or support systems. There is one near me which is self-referral. The help is out there, if it's available to you - take it!
There are many apps and websites you can use to socialise with others that are dealing with the same issues as you. 7 Cups and Elefriends are two of my favourites.
Making time to look after yourself is the biggest tip I can give you. Meditate, exercise (if you can only do a few yoga stretches in the morning that's fine. Gradually build up) eat better and more, drink more water, get more and better quality sleep, limit your time on social media or watching telly - get outside once in a while. These are all things I need to work on myself, talk about taking your own advice.
It can be really scary to put yourself out there, but there are people sat literally waiting for you to come and accept the help they are offering.
You are not alone.
All my hugs, Bunnie xo