
When to Seek Help
If you’re concerned that you or someone you know is living with mental health problems, it might help to speak with a medical or mental health professional. Experiencing one or more of the following feelings or behaviors can signal a problem:
+ Early Warning Signs – Younger Children
+ Early Warning Signs – Preteens and Teenagers
+ Early Warning Signs – Adults
Early Diagnosis and Treatment Matters
Even very young children may show early warning signs of mental health conditions, and these problems may be clinically diagnosable. Youth with mental health disorders often can experience difficulties in a variety of settings, including home, school and the community. Unfortunately, fewer than 20 percent of children and adolescents with diagnosable mental health problems receive the treatment they need.
Early mental health support can help a child before problems interfere with other developmental needs. Generally, the sooner mental dysfunction is diagnosed and treated, the sooner symptoms can improve, and the greater the likelihood of preventing more severe mental illness.
Research has shown that, on average, it takes about 11 years from the time a person starts to experience mental health symptoms to the time when they access treatment. This means that many are suffering in silence. Talking with a doctor or mental health professional about how you’re feeling (or encouraging your friends and loved ones to do so) can make a difference and ensure that your struggles are addressed sooner rather than later. Our staff at Here For Texas has seen firsthand the positive difference that mental health support and treatment can have on individuals. Don’t suffer in silence. We are here to help.
If you or someone you know is ready to start their journey toward mental wellness, call the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line at 972-525-8181, Monday through Friday, 10a.m. – 6p.m. for information, support, and mental health resources. Se habla español.