Seeking mental health care can be really challenging due to the associated stigma and lack of care accessibility. If you have found it difficult to find proper mental health care, the guide below can help you navigate the system to get the care you deserve.
Mental health disorders can vary widely as they are complex issues that can negatively impact the lives of people
When to seek help?
Identifying symptoms of mental distress is crucial
Inability to control emotions
Some of these include excessive anxiety, worry, sadness, suicidal thoughts
You suspect you may be experiencing anhedonia (Inability to feel pleasure: a symptom of depression)
Other Symptoms include.
Social withdrawal
Loss of interest in hobbies
Lack of libido
A therapist may be able to help you learn how to manage your emotions
Psychiatrist vs Psychologist?
Seeking care can become confusing when you don’t know who to ask. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor trained to provide mental health therapy as well as prescribe medications/ procedures as they become relevant. A psychologist on the other hand is a clinically trained counselor but cannot prescribe medication. The term ‘therapist’ is most often used for psychologists but may be used interchangeably.
How to get care?
In BC, you need a referral from a primary care doctor. You can get a Referral from a family doctor, or any doctor at a walk-in clinic.
Find a walk-in clinic near you:
Find a family doctor for you
Following a referral, you will be placed on a waitlist to see a mental health specialist.
What does it cost me? What about insurance?
A psychiatrist visit and referral are covered by your provincial health plan. However, they likely don't cover regular appointments with a psychologist for ongoing care. Provincial programs such as MSP do not cover the cost of most medications even if they are prescribed to you. Your extended health insurance, from an employer, parent, or institution may cover part of the cost of therapy and medication for you. Please check your specific extended health insurance plan to see what is covered for you
As always, the HFC team is here for you should you need help navigating the system. Please don't hesitate to reach out using the form on the 'Get Support' page.
Meanwhile, there are several other mental health supports available:
Here to Help: https://www.heretohelp.bc.ca/support-myself
Youth support at Foundry BC (Free) : https://foundrybc.ca/
Crisis lines in BC:
Two crisis lines offer immediate, 24-hour access to services for anyone in the province considering suicide or those with mental health or substance use challenges.
1800SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) is for individuals considering suicide, or for those who are concerned about someone who may be at risk of suicide.
310Mental Health Support (310-6789) is a crisis line that provides emotional support, information,
and resources specific to mental health and substance use disorders.
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