Replace Mental Health Stigma With Support

Unlike diabetes or cancer, there is no medical test that can accurately diagnose mental illness. A mental health professional will use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Association, to assess symptoms and make a diagnosis. The manual lists criteria including feelings and behaviors and time limits in order to be officially classified as a mental health condition.

Knowing the warning signs can help let you know if you need to speak to a professional. For many people, getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step in a treatment plan. After diagnosis, a health care provider can help develop a treatment plan that could include medication, therapy or other lifestyle changes.

Treatment for mental illness vary by diagnosis and by person. There's no "one size fits all" treatment. Reach out to your health insurance, primary care doctor, Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or state/county mental health authority for more resources.

If you or someone you know needs help now, you should immediately call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or call 911.