this post was submitted on 25 Oct 2023
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Hey lemmy,

I've been in need of outside mental support for a while now but I'd like to confirm my current options. I was able to get counseling for free through my school but since I graduated I can't benefit from it anymore. Is the only way now paying private counseling? I checked my spouse health insurance and it covers like $300/year which apparently barely covers two sessions. I'd appreciate any insight and information. Thank you!

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[–] [email protected] 4 points 1 year ago

There isn't great support through the public system, unfortunately. A while ago when I was going through a hard spot I did end up going to some group therapy sessions at Burnaby Hospital so I think something like that is available through the public system but it's ultimately pretty limited.

Are you on / have you considered medication? In my experience, I had mental health issues throughout most of my life and therapy / counseling were really only temporary coping mechanisms. Methods like CBT could prevent me from spiraling but not from feeling crappy in the first place. Once I got on the right antidepressant my issues basically dissolved away and I haven't had any further troubles. Medication may not be right for you, but I'm just mentioning it because in some cases, for some people, counseling & therapy alone can't solve the problem.