Barriers to psychological care

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Barriers to psychological care

There are many reasons why you may not want to get treatment.

• You may not trust therapists or psychologists.
• You may worry about money. Even if you have insurance, it doesn't always cover mental health care.
• You may feel that asking for treatment is a sign of weakness.
• You may think you will get better if enough time passes.
• You may worry that if people find out it could hurt your career.

But you need to get treatment. Treatment can work.

Here are some reasons people don't seek treatment and what you can do about them.

"It's hard to schedule and find time for an appointment." "I can't get there."

• Therapists, clinics, and hospitals may offer after-hours appointments or weekend hours.
• Look at your schedule and find when it would be easiest for you to see a doctor or counselor. Request this time when you call. You may have to wait a few days, but if that's the only time you can do it, it's worth the wait.
• When you call for an appointment, explain your situation. Most doctors will try to find a time that works for both of you.
• Ask a friend to help you get there, or check local bus schedules.

"See a shrink? I'm not crazy." "People will think I'm weak." "What will my family and friends think?"

• You are looking for help so you will feel better. It takes strength and courage to seek help from others.
• Mental health problems are real and can affect your physical health. They are often caused by chemicals in the brain or by heredity—they are not character flaws.
• You can get better with the right kind of treatment. Treatment includes medicine, counseling, self-care, or a combination of these. The kind of treatment you have will depend on how severe your symptoms are.

"Someone might get into my medical records and see this."

Doctors, counselors, hospitals, and clinics take privacy seriously. They won't share your records with anyone not involved in your treatment. If you have questions about your privacy, ask the doctor about it when calling for an appointment.

"I've tried to talk to people. They just don't get it and don't care."

It may be hard for some people to understand or relate to your experiences. But other people who have experienced the same type of events can understand. Consider finding a group of people who have had similar experiences.

"I can't afford it."

• Many towns and cities have resources that may be able to help you. Call your local social services department or welfare office to find out.
• If you have insurance, check your policy. Mental health benefits often are covered through a separate company.
• Check to see if your state has a mental health parity law. Your employer may be required to provide mental health insurance.
• Look into the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). You may be able to use it to take time off for doctor visits.
• Ask your doctor for help. He or she may be able to find free or low-cost medicine or counseling.
• Check Medicaid if you have a low income, or Medicare if you are 65 or older. These programs may be able to help you.

Credits

Last updated:	March 21, 2007
Author:	Ralph Poore
Reviewed By:	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine, Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC