Life After a Mental Health Diagnosis

Life After a Mental Health Diagnosis

Rachel Sullivan, LMFT, CFLE-P

The span of time following an official mental health diagnosis can come with a flurry of conflicting emotions. Some parts of us may feel relief for having answers, while others feel deep sadness over how the diagnosis will impact our life. This potential range of emotions are completely valid, and a very typical response to receiving such news. Often, receiving a mental health diagnosis can lead to a new perspective on previously confusing symptoms or behaviors.

Being able to have a general idea of why we act or think may create a sense of validation, allowing us to move from feeling abnormal to understanding our brain is functioning a specific way. W

What happens after we receive this diagnosis can greatly impact the overall enjoyability of life, so let us make sure this time is beneficial. Here are five steps we can take to increase long-term wellness in life.

1. Get plugged in with a good therapist. While every mental health diagnosis is unique, essentially every diagnosis can be benefitted by working with a therapist. It is most helpful to find a therapist who is knowledgeable about your specific diagnosis and takes into consideration aspects of life that are important to you. Searching for a therapist can be overwhelming, especially when we do not have a personal referral from somebody we trust. A good source for finding a therapist is Psychology Today. This hub allows us to search through verified mental health providers while filtering for items such as who carries our insurance, therapist’s rates, and whether they work with specific populations. Most therapist will allow a brief chat, to see if we feel they will be a good fit, before jumping into a paid appointment. Do not be afraid to call multiple people before establishing a first appointment. This is an important step in your journey to wellness, so make sure to advocate for yourself in the beginning!

2. Conduct research from reputable sources. Not all sources of information are equal! Ensure you are seeking information from sources that will provide you accurate answers, that take into consideration the individuality of you, as well as differences in your symptomology. Your therapist should be able to help you identify resources with reputable information for your specific diagnosis.

3. Work collaboratively to create a plan of action. A competent therapist will assist you with figuring out what you need as a unique individual, based on your diagnosis. This may include small action steps that need to be taken on a regular basis to ensure consistency in your behavior and thoughts or ensuring you know your warning signs of symptoms increasing. Working collaboratively may also mean you give your therapist permission to speak with your physician, psychiatrist, or other specialists you may be seeing. This collaboration serves to ensure you have the most comprehensive care for maximum wellness.

4. Identify your support system. This should be part of what your therapist helps you do, but ensuring this step is in place will allow you to know multiple people on your side to encourage you on the tough days.

5. You are not your diagnosis. When we receive such heavy news, it can be challenging to see ourselves as a person outside of the diagnosis. However, stretching your mind to remember you HAVE a diagnosis, you are not the diagnosis can help keep your journey in perspective. The care you receive following a mental health diagnosis is crucial. While this set of actions is not exhaustive, I do hope this list gets you started to the best days ahead.

Stay well friends,

Rachel Sullivan, LMFT, CFLE-P

Solid Ground Counseling Center

www.solidgroundmadison.com

Solid Ground Counseling Center www.solidgroundmadison.com