I am not sure that most people realise the “process” when you are considered to have a mental illness. Some times, it can be a long and winding road.
For me, it was to see a Doctor, who advised me to see a Councillor – then on to a Mental Health Nurse – then on to a Psychiatrist – to a Psychologist.
The time scale can be weeks (if you are extra lucky), months, or even years.
Then you may be given prescribed medication – but remember, what tablet works for one may not work for others, and vice versa – it may take years to get what works for you.
You can gain trust and safety if you have just one mental health worker, but invariably, you tend to open your soul, to be then moved to another.
Then, as in my case, you slip and slide all the way back to where you started from….but, the reason that I do what I do, is to try and give others some kind of comfort, and will happily help anyone if I can.