“But What Do I Do In The Meantime?”

By Nancy Elliot, Licensed Professional Counselor

          I am an Intake and Crisis Specialist for Adult Mental Health services at the Betty Hardwick Center (BHC).  When adults with psychiatric issues come to BHC, we complete an intensive intake assessment to see if they are eligible for services.  If they are eligible, they may very well be told that they will be put on a waiting list for services.  As a result, I frequently hear the following statement, “ But what do I do in the meantime?”

          Waiting lists have become a way of life for many human service agencies. It is frustrating and frightening to ask for help and be told you will have to wait.  Due to the high cost of psychiatric medications, a change in admission criteria for adult mental health services, and legislative budget cuts, the Betty Hardwick Center has been forced into a holding pattern, and consequently, a waiting list for services.

          Now, back to the question, “What do I do in the meantime?”  There are many things YOU CAN DO to relieve the immediate crisis.  Relief doesn’t always come in the form of a pill.  Medications can help improve symptoms, but much of the relief comes from changing thoughts, behaviors, and sometimes, life situations.  This technique may not work for people who are diagnosed with chronic psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.  In these cases, medications may be immediately necessary.

          Sometimes change can occur just by recognizing what your real problems are. Often what appears to be the problem really isn’t, but is instead the symptom of a greater problem. Taking an inventory of your life, discovering what’s really going on, and examining your behavior are essential steps to change. Talking with a counselor, a clergy or another professional can help you identify your issues and help you explore possible solutions.  Most change comes about from a cumulative effort of changing your beliefs, your priorities and your behaviors.  These changes take commitment to and belief in your well-being.  And, they don’t just happen; they take a lot of hard work. 

          Finding a counselor or other professional you can work with will be very beneficial.  Abilene has many agencies that offer counseling on a sliding fee scale, making it affordable for almost everyone.  Support groups can help, and there are several in the community.  Another good idea would be to join a church or social group.  Start walking—exercise can make you feel better.  Volunteer your services to help someone else.  Just beginning to do something, taking action, will make you feel better. 

          Connecting with community resources is definitely a step in the right direction for recovery.  But, even more important, is the fact that you must understand that recovery takes a lot of hard work.  And, you must be willing to make the commitment and invest the time to achieve the outcome. 

          As a counselor, I ask my clients to keep personal journals, so that they can assess their daily progress.  Occasionally, I request they do a written or reading assignment.  Setting realistic goals for themselves and aligning their thoughts and behaviors with those goals is essential to their recovery.  I ask them to fill their journal with positive statements about themselves, their feelings and their lives.  Self-affirmations reinforce commitment and encourage continued efforts.  When set-backs come along, they will have their journal entries to share with their counselor, which will make getting back on track much easier.

          Understanding what you think and how you behave is fundamental to change.  Frequently, the hardest part is admitting that you have issues with which you must deal.  Some issues can be pretty tough, and you’d rather not stir them up.  You must determine what you want, and examine whether or not your actions, behaviors, and lifestyle are helping or hindering your desired outcome.  Much of the responsibility for change is up to you. Waiting for someone else to fix you takes too long.  Real change can be painful, but it’s worth it in the end, when you are happier, better adjusted and capable of making healthier decisions.

          The options discussed in this article are not all-inclusive.  I am a counselor, and have written this article from my point of view.  I recommend counseling for people who want to make positive change in their lives.  It is readily available and affordable for most people.  If counseling is not for you, then join a support group.  Get busy doing something!  Don’t just sit there waiting for things to change.  It’s not that simple.  Change takes work. 

          If you need help, call the Betty Hardwick Center at 690-5100.  If you don’t qualify for our services, we can give referrals to you.  If you have a mental health crisis, call the 24-hour Crisis Line at 1-800-758-3344.

Nancy Elliot is Intake Specialist for the Betty Harwick Center.  Mental Health Matters is sponsored by the Mental Health Association, phone (325) 673-2300, e-mail mhaa@bitstreet.com.  Need help?  Call the community Hope Line (325) 677-7773.