A good rule of thumb is to seek help when symptoms persist for two weeks or more, when they are getting worse rather than better, or when they begin to interfere with your ability to work, study, look after yourself, or maintain relationships. You do not need to wait until things reach a crisis; earlier support often makes recovery quicker.
Other reasons to see a doctor include relying on alcohol or substances to cope, withdrawing from people you care about, panic attacks, persistent insomnia, or physical symptoms with no clear cause. Bringing a note of when symptoms started and how they affect you can make the appointment more useful.
Some situations need urgent, same-day help: thoughts of suicide or self-harm, thoughts of harming others, being unable to keep yourself safe, or losing touch with reality (such as hearing voices). In these cases contact a doctor or crisis service today, or call your local emergency number. Mental health emergencies deserve the same urgency as physical ones.