Elmo Asked, We Answered: Finding the Right Mental Healthcare for Your Needs

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America's beloved red Muppet recently gained viral attention with a simple tweet, asking, "Elmo is just checking in! How is everybody doing?" Rather than the customary "fine" exchanged in passing, users flooded the comment section in a collective “trauma dump.” Even in adulthood, our Muppet friend sets a great example, reminding us to check-in with our friends, family, and, most importantly, ourselves. Just as you'd care for a physical wound, prioritizing your mental health is equally vital. Don't hesitate to seek the help you need.

Choosing the Right Level of Treatment

It's normal to feel stressed or anxious now and then. But it's time to call for help if emotional issues last for a long time. And if they interfere with your life, job or personal relationships. Treatment can vary based on your specific needs and may include:

• Outpatient psychiatry and psychotherapy: For people who are struggling with depression or other mood disorders, anxiety and thought disorders, Overlake offers psychiatric evaluations and medication management, as well as the opportunity to engage in short-term cognitive behavioral therapy with providers who will work in a collaborative manner.
• Partial hospitalization: If you need help with mood-related disorders such as severe depression and, or severe anxiety, Overlake’s Adult Partial Hospitalization Program offers intensive therapy designed to meet the specific needs of patients aged 18 and older. Licensed and board-certified psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, a LICSW therapist, pharmacists and other key staff collaborate to establish a treatment plan with you. Personalized treatment is provided in a group setting, Monday–Friday for six hours each day, for an average of five to eight days.
• Inpatient treatment: The Overlake Behavioral Health Unit offers crisis stabilization management for when patients are at risk of harming themselves or others, or when symptoms are so strong that it makes it hard for patients to function. Overlake offers a dual diagnosis track to help patients who are also struggling with substance use, and assist patients with aftercare planning and coordination.
• Emergency care: In an emergency situation, such as when you are thinking of harming yourself, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Mental health issues can be all-consuming, and it can be difficult to find your way forward. You don’t have to face these challenges alone. At Overlake Medical Center & Clinics, our psychiatric services team has helped thousands of patients find their path to better health.