REQUEST YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT

Patient Education

ACCEPTING PATIENTS IN CALIFORNIA
 Tima Miroshnichenko / Pexels

What Is an Informed Patient?

An informed patient is someone who takes an active role in their healthcare. They seek to understand their mental health condition, treatment options, and the benefits and risks of those treatments. They ask questions, express preferences, and make decisions in partnership with their provider.

At Value Life Mental Health Group, we believe that informed patients:

  • Know their rights and options
  • Are aware of the purpose and potential effects of their medications or therapies
  • Are involved in setting personal goals for treatment
  • Understand that asking questions is not only welcome—it’s encouraged
  • Feel empowered to speak openly and honestly with their provider

Informed care is collaborative care. When you’re informed, you’re not just receiving treatment—you’re actively shaping your own healing journey

Educational Resources Disclaimer

Value Life Mental Health Group is sharing these materials to support your mental wellness journey.

We provide these resources to help you better understand common mental health conditions such as:

Anxiety Depression Bipolar Disorder Stress ADHD

Please note:

  • These educational materials are sourced from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other trusted public health institutions.
  • Value Life Mental Health Group does not claim ownership of these materials.
  • These resources are publicly available and are shared for educational purposes only.
  • They are not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment.
  • You may review them before your appointment to prepare, or use them as a supplement during ongoing conversations with your provider.

We believe informed patients make empowered decisions—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

What is a Mental Health Crisis?

A mental health crisis is a situation when someone’s emotional or mental state has put them at risk of hurting themselves or others, or impaired their ability to take care of their basic needs.

Recognizing when your loved one is in crisis can be complicated, as the details look and feel different for everyone. But when you’re close with someone, you’ll probably notice if something seems off or unusual.

Signs to Look Out For:

Disoriented or Confused
Extremely Malnourished
Aggresive Shouting
Talking About Suicide
Hallucinations or Delusions

The information provided here is adapted from the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (LACDMH) for educational purposes only.

A mental health crisis is any situation in which a person’s behavior puts them at risk of hurting themselves or others, or when they are unable to function or care for themselves safely.

Examples may include:

  • Suicidal thoughts or threats
  • Self-harm or harm to others
  • Extreme emotional distress or panic
  • Severe depression, disorientation, or psychosis
  • Substance use that results in dangerous behavior

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 or contact local crisis services immediately. In emergencies involving danger to life or safety, always call 911.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional evaluation or emergency care. Value Life Mental Health Group does not claim ownership of the original definitions and credits LACDMH as the source.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911. For mental health, emotional distress, or suicide crisis, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — available 24/7.