Sadness. Anxiety. Loneliness. Irritability.
We’ve all had these feelings at least once in our lives. Stress caused from world events and pressures at home, work, or school can take a toll on our mental health. But how do we know if we’re just having a bad day or when it’s time to seek help?
“Generally, if signs persist for more than a few weeks,” says Honolulu psychiatrist Asad Ghiasuddin, M.D., an HMSA medical director. “Also, if you’re having trouble focusing on daily life functions or isolating from family and friends.”
However, more than half of people who need behavioral health treatment are reluctant to seek help, according to the American Psychiatric Association. Many of them don’t want to bother people with their problems or feel embarrassed to see a therapist. But Dr. Ghiasuddin says your mental health is just as important as good physical health.
“There should be no shame in getting therapy,” he says. “If someone has a broken bone or mole on their back, they don’t hesitate to see a doctor. It should be the same if you’re feeling depressed.”
Honolulu psychiatrist Asad Ghiasuddin, M.D., is an HMSA medical director.
If you think you may need to see a mental health therapist, here are ways you can start.
Ask your primary care provider (PCP). Although you don’t need a referral to see a behavioral care specialist, you should tell your PCP about any mental health issues you may be experiencing. Your PCP may have a list of recommended therapists based on your specific needs and situation.
Ask family or friends. Just like shopping around for a doctor or dentist, ask people
if they have any recommendations.
Check with your employer. Your workplace may provide onsite help or can point you to resources that are part of your HMSA health plan benefits. Check with your human resources department.
Check HMSA resources.
- Find a Doctor on hmsa.com has a directory of participating behavioral health care providers. You can search based on location, specialty, gender, and languages spoken.
- With HMSA’s Online Care®, you can make an appointment with a behavioral health provider by phone or web chat from the convenience and privacy of your home. Visit hmsa.com/OnlineCare to get started.
- For more information on behavioral health services and programs, go to hmsa.com/well-being. Under the Preventive Care section, click Mental Health. Or call HMSA Health and Well-being Support at 1-855-329-5461, option 1, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Finding the right fit
Taking that first step may not be easy. But it can make all the difference. “It can be freeing to speak to someone about things that you’ve kept bottled up for a long time,” Dr. Ghiasuddin says. “You’re not alone. There are more people than you think seeing a therapist.”
It may take some time to develop a comfortable rapport with a therapist who you can share your most inner thoughts and feelings with. Dr. Ghiasuddin suggests having patience and not getting discouraged.
“It’s like any long-term relationship,” he says. “You need to test drive a new car to try it out. It may take several sessions. And if it doesn’t work out, no harm, no foul in being open about that and looking for another therapist who may be a better fit.”
Magellan resources
If you’re an HMSA member experiencing mental health or behavioral health challenges, support is available. HMSA’s behavioral health partner, Magellan Hawaii, helps ensure you have the care you need for conditions like depression, anxiety, alcohol and substance use, post-traumatic stress, and more. Check out behavioral health support from magellan hawaii.
Amwell is an independent company providing hosting and software services for HMSA’s Online Care platform on behalf of HMSA.
Art by Garry Ono
SU25F
