Mental Health Issues

Could you tell if a loved one was having mental or emotional problems? If so, what could you do to help? It’s a scary thought, but health care professionals say the best way to handle it is to talk.

“This is a huge need, and it is unfortunate that a crisis of this nature is what brings it to mind,” said Dr. Fred Michel, the Chief Medical Officer of Aspen Pointe.

After a tragedy like the shooting in Newtown, Connecticut, the first thing many ask is who could have done this, and why? Some people start looking for clues of mental or emotional problem.

The good news is people with mental health needs are rarely a major threat to society.

“I can’t tell you I have ever run into, in all my 15 or 20 years of practicing medicine, someone that i thought was that severe, or has acted in that particular fashion,” said Michel.

There are many who suffer in silence because there is a stigma attached to mental health.

Michel said the best thing to do is have a private honest conversation with the person you are worried about. Tell them they have not been acting live themselves and give examples.

“Give that person a chance to respond, it can make us so anxious to ask that question that we won’t give it enough time for the other person to respond. We will move to our own answer first,” said Michel.

It’s important to start a conversation, but don’t go beyond your level. If you have questions or need help call Aspen Pointe at 719-572-6100.