If you have, or believe you may have, mental health problem, it can be helpful to talk about these issues with others. It can be scary to reach out for help, but it is often the first step to helping you heal, grow, and recover.
Having a good support system and engaging with trustworthy people are key elements to successfully talking about your own mental health.
Find someone—such as a parent, family member, teacher, faith leader, health care provider or other trusted individual, who:
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Find a group of people with mental health problems similar to yours. Peer support relationships can positively affect individual recovery because:
You may want to start or join a self-help or peer support group. National organizations across the country have peer support networks and peer advocates. Find an organization that can help you connect with peer groups and other peer support.
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It’s also important for you to be educated, informed, and engaged about your own mental health.
Get involved in your treatment through shared decision making. Participate fully with your mental health provider and make informed treatment decisions together. Participating fully in shared decision making includes:
Learn more about shared decision making .
Recovery is a process of change where individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential. Studies show that most people with mental health problems get better, and many recover completely.
You may want to develop a written recovery plan. Recovery plans:
You can develop these plans with family members and other supporters. Learn more about recovery.