Ever put off getting help because you thought it would “just pass”?
You are not alone. Millions suffer with anxiety, stress and low mood for months (even years) before speaking to someone. The longer you leave it, the worse it becomes.
Here’s the problem:
The average time from first symptoms to treatment is a whopping 11 years. Over 10 years of suffering that could have been avoided.
The good news?
Anxiety and depression treatment works. And it works best when you start early.
Find out below exactly why you wait so long — and how to put an end to waiting once and for all.
Let’s jump in!
Here’s What’s Inside:
- The Real Size Of The Problem
- 5x Reasons People Wait Too Long
- Why Early Anxiety And Depression Treatment Matters
- How To Take The First Step
The Real Size Of The Problem.
Mental health issues are way more common than most people think.
Australian Psychological Society data shows that mental illness affected 21.5 per cent of Australians aged between 16 and 85 during the previous 12 months. Anxiety disorders were the most prevalent mental illnesses, experienced by 17.2 per cent of Australians.
But here’s the kicker…
Out of 4.3 million Australians who live with a mental disorder, just 45.1% saw a health professional. This means over half received no professional help whatsoever.
Think about it:
If half of all individuals with a broken arm wouldn’t seek medical attention, the newspapers would have field days with it. Mental health though… nobody bats an eye.
One of the most important parts of recovery is finding someone that will be the right support for you. Successful anxiety and depression treatment generally begins with a psychologist that gets to know your symptoms, your goals and your lifestyle. If you’re located in Victoria, a comparison of Melbourne psychology practices can help you weigh up your therapy options side by side before you make your appointment. That way, taking the first step to treating anxiety and depression isn’t quite so daunting.
5x Reasons People Wait Too Long
So why do so many of you wait? Because there is no ONE reason. There are several little ones….
1. They Don’t Think It’s “Bad Enough”
This is the big one.
Many sufferers measure themselves against others and conclude that they are not “ill enough” to seek treatment. “Everyone is stressed out.” “We all have bad weeks.”
Of course they do that. But if bad weeks lead to bad months, then you need to talk to someone.
You don’t need to hit rock bottom to deserve support.
2. Stigma Still Hangs Around
Let’s face it. A lot of people care what others think. They don’t want their friends, family or boss to think they’re weak.
Especially true for men. Females living with a mental disorder in Australia were significantly more likely to visit a health professional in any given year compared with males (51.1% compared with 36.4%). Many men are taught to “tough it out” — and that mentality can keep them trapped for years.
3. They Don’t Know Where To Start
GP? Psychologist? Counsellor? Psychiatrist?
Systems can feel overwhelming. When you’re exhausted emotionally already, figuring out who to contact can be monumental. So you put it off… repeatedly.
The easy solution? Begin with your GP. They deal with mental health issues daily and will guide you to the appropriate form of help for your needs.
4. Cost Worries
Money can be a common obstacle for many individuals. They believe counseling will cost too much and never explore their options.
But here’s the thing…
In Australia, having a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP allows you to access Medicare rebates for psychology services. Many people don’t even know this is an option.
5. They Hope It Will Go Away On Its Own
Sometimes it does. Often it doesn’t. And the waiting game can quietly steal years.
Depression and anxiety creep up on you gradually. You become accustomed to feeling slightly worse each month – until “slightly worse” is your new normal.
Why Early Anxiety And Depression Treatment Matters
Here’s something most people don’t realise…
The more mental health problems are allowed to persist without treatment, the more they can overflow into other areas of life. Untreated anxiety and depression can impact your:
- Sleep
- Relationships
- Work
- Physical health
It’s a snowball effect. One problem feeds the next.
However, if you get help early you can prevent that snowball from growing. Early intervention often involves:
- Shorter treatment times
- Better long-term results
- Less disruption to your daily life
Sounds logical right? A small cavity is much easier to repair than doing a whole root canal. Mental health is the same way — issues can easily be treated when they are small.
If you were to ask 10 health experts when the ideal time is to seek help for a medical problem, you may or may not get 10 different answers. But if those 10 experts include someone who has studied spiritual health, you can bet that one of those answers will be, “When you first start feeling symptoms.”
And they’d be right. Whether it’s a migraine headache or a bacterial infection, the sooner you can intervene, the better. But there’s another advantage to getting help early – it can prevent future problems. That’s why the second best time to seek help is today.
How To Take The First Step
Ready to stop waiting? Taking the first step is simpler than it looks.
First thing first, make an appointment with your GP. They can discuss your symptoms with you and refer you for a Mental Health Treatment Plan if required. A Mental Health Treatment Plan can provide you with rebated sessions with a psychologist.
Next, do a little research on psychologists. Look for someone who:
- Has experience with your specific concerns
- Offers times that fit your schedule
- Makes you feel comfortable and heard
Don’t worry if your first psychologist isn’t “THE ONE.” Honestly, that doesn’t even happen sometimes. Many people try out a few before they find “their person.”
But what if making that call is just too much? Even for now? Then talk to someone you trust. A friend, partner or family member can help you make that first call. They can even sit with you while you make it.
Small steps still count.
Disclaimer: If you or someone you know is in crisis, or you feel unsafe please call Crisis support now. Lifeline on 13 11 14 and 000 if it is an emergency.
Stop Waiting, Start Feeling Better
So many people wait too long to seek help for mental illness. Let that not be you.
To quickly recap:
- Millions of Australians suffer from a mental disorder — and over half will never consult a professional
- People wait because of stigma, cost worries, confusion and hoping it will pass
- Early anxiety and depression treatment leads to better long-term results
- Your GP is a great place to start
Fact is… there is no “not bad enough.” If it doesn’t feel right, that’s enough of a reason to call.
Take that first small step today. Future you will be glad you did.