Worried About Your Mental Health? Why You Should Seek Treatment Now — Not Later
Psychiatrist Marc Lener, MD, explains the importance of treating mental illness early and the risks of delaying treatment.
It’s risky to wait too long to seek treatment for a mental health issue. Any condition can worsen as time ticks on, and negative thought and behavior patterns become more solidified in your brain. As a result, these strong habits may become harder and harder to break. When left untreated, some mental illnesses may increase your risk for substance misuse, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.
If you are starting to have symptoms that are getting in the way of your social life, work life, family life, or goals, it may be a good time to see a therapist. Therapy can help you better understand yourself, what leads to certain problems, and how to cope better. Find out what to expect at your first therapy session here.
- Marc Lener, MDMarc Lener, MD, is a psychiatrist and founder of the Singula Institute in New York City.
References
American Academy of Family Physicians. (2022). Different types of mental health treatment.
The National Institute of Mental Health Information Resource Center. (n.d.). My mental health: Do I need help?
For additional resources or to connect with mental health services in your area, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357. For immediate assistance, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or text HOME to 741-741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.
