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My vision is that going to a mental health professional is as normal as going to a dentist. No one particularly likes going to a dentist, but most dutifully go, twice a year. If we had an existing relationship with a mental health professional, then in times of crisis, which every household inevitably faces–serious illness, death of a loved one, loss of job, divorce/break-up, empty nest, etc.–there would already be a relationship with a professional to turn to.

There are many obstacles in the way of seeking care, but the primary one is simply knowledge:

Am I, or is my loved one, really sick, or in need of help?

What is therapy?  Does it work?

What kind of help do I need? Psychiatrist? Social worker? Psychologist? What are the differences?

How do I afford care?  Will my insurance pay?

If I seek help, won’t my friends and family think less of me?  Will my colleagues talk about me behind my back?

What about medications? Aren’t drugs a crutch? I should just tough this out.

What are the potential consequences of not getting help?

When you’re in crisis, it is particulary hard to navigate your way through these questions to someone who can help.

I want this conversation to be easier for all of us to start.

In moderating this forum on mental health awareness, I have two goals:

Please visit the memorial page for Jack Kimzey and learn how your donations can help.

Thank you, Bill Kimzey

PS. This article published in the Bernardsville News tells part of my story.

PPS. Archive of mental health posts: