One in five U.S. adults experiences mental illness each year, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). If you are struggling with your mental health, the first step is to contact a physician or mental health professional to discuss your experiences and determine the best path forward for care.
How do I know when it is time to seek mental health support?
Recognizing the need for help can be difficult, but you are not alone. According to NAMI, mental illness impacts one in five adults annually, affecting everything from daily work to family life. If you find yourself questioning whether you need assistance for mental health or addiction issues, you should reach out to a physician or a qualified mental health professional. These experts can help you assess your feelings and connect you with appropriate resources.
If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call or text 988 at any time to connect with trained specialists who provide immediate support.
Where can I find mental health resources in central Ohio?
For those living in central Ohio, several organizations provide pathways to care. If you do not have a primary care physician, major health systems and private practices can help you find a doctor accepting new patients. Additionally, the following organizations offer specific support:
- Physicians CareConnection (PCC): Affiliated with the Columbus Medical Association, PCC coordinates care for vulnerable adults. You can reach them at (614) 884-2441 for assistance with mental health or addiction challenges.
- ADAMH of Franklin County: This program connects residents to local, affordable care, including crisis services, counseling, and recovery programs. Details are available at adamhfranklin.org.
- NAMI Franklin County: This local chapter provides support groups and resources for individuals living with mental illness, as well as their families and caregivers. Learn more at namifranklincounty.org.
What community-wide changes are improving access to care?
Central Ohio is shifting toward more comprehensive crisis response models. Last year, the ADAMH Franklin County Crisis Care Center opened in Franklinton, marking a first-of-its-kind facility providing 24/7 services for adults dealing with addiction or mental health issues. Furthermore, following the approval of Issue 5 in Columbus, the city is expanding its Department of Public Safety to include a division of community crisis response. This initiative will deploy trained clinicians, social workers, and peer supporters to handle mental health-related emergency calls, ensuring that the response matches the specific needs of the individual.
You can help break the stigma surrounding mental health by sharing your own story or utilizing educational toolkits. Resources for raising awareness are available through the American Psychiatric Association Foundation’s Mental Health Care Works website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am in a mental health crisis?
If you are in crisis, please call or text 988 immediately. This service connects you with trained specialists who can provide the support you need.
How can I find a physician if I don’t have one?
You can contact major health systems or private practices in your area to find a physician accepting new patients. In central Ohio, organizations like Physicians CareConnection can also help coordinate care.
Is there a way to help others struggling with mental illness?
Yes. You can help by sharing resources and facts to reduce stigma. Organizations like NAMI and the American Psychiatric Association Foundation provide downloadable toolkits to help you start conversations.
Nita Bhatt, MD, MPH, DFAPA, is a psychiatrist and a member of the Board of Directors at the Columbus Medical Association. For more health-related information, visit columbusmedicalassociation.org/askthedoc.
Share your thoughts: Have you used local resources like the ADAMH Crisis Care Center? Let us know your experience in the comments below, or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on community health initiatives.
