6 Common Reasons People Avoid Mental Health Treatment

You wouldn't hesitate to see a doctor for a broken bone or persistent cough. Yet when it comes to mental health, many people delay seeking help—sometimes for years. At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, Georgia, we understand these hesitations and work to address them head-on for our patients throughout Gwinnett County and the greater Atlanta area.

Nearly 40% of people with diagnosable mental health conditions don't receive treatment. Let's explore the most common reasons why—and the truth behind each barrier.

1. "Treatment Won't Help Me"

This is perhaps the most damaging misconception. The reality? Mental health treatment is remarkably effective. Research shows that 70-90% of people experience significant symptom reduction and improved quality of life with proper treatment combining medication management and therapy.

Dr. Aneel Ursani, Medical Director at Next Step Psychiatry, has seen countless patients from Lawrenceville to Stone Mountain transform their lives through evidence-based psychiatric care. Science supports what we witness daily in our practice.

2. "I'll Be in Treatment Forever"

Many mental health conditions can be effectively treated within months. While some conditions like bipolar disorder may require ongoing management, many patients with anxiety or depression complete their treatment and move forward with the skills they've learned.

Every treatment plan at our Lilburn office is personalized. We work with you to set goals and regularly assess progress, adjusting as needed to help you achieve lasting wellness.

3. "A Diagnosis Will Follow Me Forever"

Thanks to HIPAA protections, your medical records—including mental health information—are strictly confidential. Your diagnosis will never be shared with employers, friends, or family without your explicit consent.

Remember: roughly half of all Americans will be diagnosed with a mental health condition at some point. There's no shame in joining a group that includes your neighbors in Norcross, your coworkers in Duluth, and millions of successful people nationwide.

4. "My Doctor Will Force Me to Take Medication"

At Next Step Psychiatry, we believe in collaborative care. Medication is just one tool in our toolkit. Fathima Chowdhury, PA-C, and our entire team work with patients to explore all options, including therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication when appropriate.

If you have concerns about medication, we encourage open discussion. The best treatment plan is one you're comfortable with and committed to following.

5. "I Can't Afford Mental Health Care"

The Affordable Care Act requires most health insurance plans to cover mental health services. If you have insurance, your psychiatric care may cost no more than a standard copay. We recommend calling your insurance provider to understand your specific benefits.

Our team at Next Step Psychiatry can help you navigate insurance questions and explore payment options. Don't let cost concerns prevent you from exploring your options.

6. "I Don't Have Time"

We understand that residents of busy Gwinnett County—balancing work, family, and Atlanta traffic—have demanding schedules. That's why we offer flexible appointment times to accommodate your life.

Consider this: investing time in your mental health now can save countless hours of struggle later. Treatment helps restore balance to your life, making everything else more manageable.

The Truth: Healing Is Possible

Mental healthcare is healthcare. Whatever hesitations you may have, we encourage you to take that first step. Our compassionate team at Next Step Psychiatry is here to answer your questions and support your journey toward wellness.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you or someone you know is in danger, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.