Maninderpal Singh Dhillon DO — Mental Health Resources in Michigan
Maninderpal Singh Dhillon DO is a psychiatrist living and practicing in Michigan. He completed his studies at Michigan State University and has experience working in a variety of settings including hospitals, private practices, and community programs. Maninderpal Singh Dhillon DO focuses his approach on evidence-based psychopharmacology and psychotherapy individualized to the needs of each patient. As a practicing psychiatrist with a passion for helping people, he knows how hard times like the COVID-19 pandemic can be — both for those suffering from mental illness and those who are not.
Dr. Dhillon is an advocate for community health programs. For him, these supplementary support systems and resources can make all the difference in a patient’s treatment. “Luckily, Michigan has some wonderful resources available to its citizens,” says Maninderpal Singh Dhillon DO. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), nearly 4.5% of Michigan residents live with serious mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. Yet, only about 43.7% of adults suffering are being treated. This is why it’s important for psychiatrists to advocate for public programs and accessible ways of getting help.
Meditation and Headspace
“No matter the severity of your condition, I find that mindfulness is an excellent coping strategy for my patients,” says Maninderpal Singh Dhillon DO. In Michigan, a normally paid subscription service called Headspace is available to residents for free. The meditation app offers guided meditations for specific goals such as anxiety, pain management, and even better sleep. But the app also offers physical exercise programs, atmospheric playlists for those who like white noise, and more. If you live in Michigan and believe this may be of help to you, visit headspace.com/mi.
Crisis Hotlines
According to Mental Health America, Michigan is ranked 17 out of 50 states and Washington D.C. for providing access to mental health services. Among national resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, Michigan also offers assistance to Michigan citizens in the form of additional hotlines. In the time of COVID-19, residents can access Michigan Stay Well Counseling through the COVID-19 Hotline at 1–888–535–6136 for free. Counselors are specially trained to help deal with emotional distress related to and independent of COVID-19. This free service is an incredible resource for those feeling overwhelmed but unprepared to seek assistance elsewhere.
Community Support
“Sometimes dealing with mental illness is an isolating experience,” says Maninderpal Singh Dhillon DO. “So, another great resource for those suffering is the Michigan PEER Warmline.” The PEER Warmline is a network of individuals who also suffer from mental illness or substance abuse. They are available to talk every day from 10 am til 2am at 1–888-PEER-753 (1–888–733–7753). This service can be invaluable to those who feel alone in their suffering and don’t necessarily have an existing support network in place. “Sometimes a little motivation from someone suffering the same way as yourself can go a long way to supporting recovery,” explains Dr. Dhillon.
Medicaid
One of the greatest barriers to healthcare in America is the cost. That’s why Maninderpal Singh Dhillon DO likes to remind residents of Michigan that low income families and individuals may be eligible for Medicaid. Michigan Medicaid is a program offering financial support to those in need of medical care. It’s a partnership between state and federal governments designed to help those in need. Dr. Dhillon encourages his patients who are concerned about the cost of treatment to reference the Michigan Medicaid State Plan, available at Michigan.gov.
Dealing with a mental health problem on your own is never your only option. In Michigan, there are numerous avenues for obtaining the help you need and deserve. These services are crucial to the overall health and well-being of the public and he encourages anyone who thinks they may benefit to try them.