There are many services available in most communities to help people battling mental illness. They are available at many different levels, from municipality-run programs to hospitals and private doctors. Many such services are free or provided on a sliding cost scale and not all require appointments.
General Counseling
According to the American Mental Health Counselors Association, such counseling is a profession unto itself. The organization requires members to have at least a master's degree in counseling. Such counseling may be given to a wide variety of mental health patients, from those with mild depression or anxiety disorders to those with much more serious diagnoses. Counseling may be provide with or without medication treatments. It may be provided by non-profit organizations.
Psychiatry
Psychiatrists provide both counseling therapy and medical treatments for those with mental health issues. Psychiatrists are medical doctors, which makes it possible for them to prescribe drugs for patients with such problems as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and other difficulties.
Medication Treatments
Doctors--both general practitioners and psychiatrists--can provide mental health medications for patients suffering from depression and other disorders. Medications may include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as Prozac or Zoloft for depression; mood stabilizers, such as lithium or divalproex; anti-anxiety medications, such as Ativan or Xanax; and antipsychotic medications, such as Clozaril and Zyprexa. These may be prescribed as part of treatment that may include psychotherapy.
Hospitalization
When mental illness becomes too severe for an individual to live within society, mental health services provided at hospitals and institutions may be the answer. This generally is considered only when the individual can't take care of himself or might harm himself or others. There are various degrees of hospitalization from being an inpatient to outpatient services. Institutions, usually called residential facilities, provide living accommodations, as well as medications and psychotherapy.
Crisis Counseling
When a crisis occurs to an individual or a family, mental health facilities--often operated by counties--offer walk-in counseling. Crises may include a death in the family, chemical dependency, alcoholism, illegal activities or homelessness, among other things. Crisis counseling may include an individual or a family.
After-School Programs
Such programs may be offered by mental health organizations to help develop mental stability in children. The programs are designed to provide constructive activities and positive reinforcement of good behaviors. Children who generally have behavioral or emotional difficulties or who may be categorized as "at risk" are admitted to the programs usually are referred by counselors.
Compeer Programs
Compeer programs essentially unite volunteers with adults or children who may have isolation and loneliness issues associated with mental illness. The volunteers and participants spend time together on activities, with the volunteers helping their companions develop social skills. Volunteers model positive behavior, as well.
