"1. I think I may have a mental health condition, but I’m afraid of what may happen if I seek support. What should I do?"

Danny:
It’s understandable to feel afraid about seeking support for a mental health condition, but it is important to remember that sourcing for help is a brave and important step towards improving your well-being. There is nothing wrong with seeking support – it’s just like consulting a doctor when we feel physically unwell. Getting help and support early will allow you to gain useful information and insights into what you are experiencing, and the help available to you.

There are many different types of support and resources available in the community. We suggest you start by talking to your regular General Practitioner (GP) if you have one. If not, you can reach out to the CREST teams in the community or the Family Service Centres to link you up with the appropriate help.

CREST is a community outreach team that focuses on raising public awareness of mental health conditions and dementia, promotes early recognition of at-risk individuals, provides emotional support to individuals and their caregivers, and links them to relevant health and social care services when necessary.

"2. How would seeking professional help support my recovery?"

Danny:
Support comes in various forms, such as psychoeducation, basic emotional support, psychotherapy, counselling, service linkages, support groups, and more. By seeking professional help, you will be able to identify and address the underlying causes of your mental health issues, and learn relevant coping strategies and techniques to manage your symptoms. In addition, should there be a need, psychiatrists can prescribe medication to you after your diagnosis to better manage your symptoms.

"3. What kind of support will I get if I were to seek help?"

Sharon:
Depending on the type of help you are looking for, the journey can involve several steps. It begins when you recognise there is a problem and feel motivated to seek help. The next step involves searching for and identifying the mental health resources or professionals available to you. These resources and information are accessible via AIC’s website or MindSG on HealthHub's website. Otherwise, you can approach the CREST team near you for further assistance.

Alternatively, you can also approach your GP, social workers at your nearby Family Service Centre, Community Intervention Team (COMIT) in your area or an Assessment & Shared Care Teams (ASCAT) for advice.

"4. I’ve been seeing a professional for my mental health condition, but nothing seems to be improving. What is wrong with me? "

Sharon:
Recovery is not a linear process. At times, it may feel as though you are taking one step forward and two steps backward. However, we would like to encourage you to press on and be patient with yourself because change can be and is hard work! You may share your concerns with your therapist, and both of you could set aside some time to review your progress periodically to ensure the therapy's direction is in line with your counselling goal.

"5. Any words of encouragement for someone who is in the midst of recovering from a mental health condition?"

Danny:
Always know that recovery is not a straightforward process, and being patient with how you progress is important. Learn to recognise and celebrate your little successes along the way. It is the small things that add up!