Finding help can be one of the most unsettling aspects of your grief journey.
- When should I get help?
- Whom should I call: a psychologist, social worker, counselor or clergy?
- Where should I look?
- How can I decide?
These are all good questions. The fact that help can be varied and is offered by so many different professionals makes it difficult to decide what to do.
Group therapy or support groups can be very helpful in reducing your sense of being the only one coping with the lost of a loved one. You can learn invaluable strategies from other people who have been in the same situation.
Whatever type of professional you choose, you should feel comfortable that this person is well trained and experienced.
In terms of cost, psychiatrists tend to be the most expensive and mental health coverage has always been more restrictive than the coverage for medical treatment of any other illness.
Be sure to check with your insurance company to see what kind of treatment is and is not covered before you make any decision about treatment. Medication may be part of your treatment and that means you will need to see a psychologist or social worker.
You should not feel that any decision is irrevocable and if possible have a consultation meeting with any new therapist to discuss the problem and see if you feel comfortable talking with him or her.
As you search for the appropriate treatment, realize that you may have to devote some time before you find what you are looking for. In North America, we are fortunate to have a number of excellent information centers, and advocacy groups dedicated to understanding and treating grief.
Below is a link to my resource page and remember that the more information you have the better able you will be to problem-solve and get the help you need.
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