When Should I Consider a Psychiatrist?
Many people suffer from deteriorating mental health conditions but are unable to decide if the problems warrant a consultation with a psychiatrist. Anxiety and depression, along with a host of other disorders, can impact a person’s ability to function. It is important to know that help is available, even for conditions that on the surface might not seem to require psychiatric care. When is it time to make an appointment?
How to determine if it is time to see a psychiatrist
It is normal to hesitate before taking the next step toward improving your mental health. Here are signs you can watch for to help you decide.
Reduced quality of life
Some individuals believe it takes a severe type of mental illness to necessitate psychiatric care, but this is not the case. Anyone experiencing an emotional issue that has led to a decrease in quality of life would be a good candidate for evaluation. Psychiatrists diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions, including ones that are considered extremely common, such as depression or anxiety.
Strong mood swings
Mood swings can be a problem for many people and sometimes can be present throughout an individual’s life without an effect on lifestyle or relationships. In other cases, these shifts in behavior can change over time, becoming more evident to loved ones and negatively affecting the person’s life. If mood swings are worsening or causing more frequent lifestyle problems, a mental health disorder might be at play and psychiatric evaluation may be helpful.
Troubling thoughts or feelings
Persistent negative thoughts or feelings are always a sign that an appointment with a mental health provider could be beneficial. If these feelings have become more prevalent over time, are increasing in magnitude or are persistent in general, it is important to contact a provider and set up an initial appointment or mental health consultation.
Potential need for medication
If the issue in question potentially needs improvement through the assistance of prescription medication, a visit to a psychiatrist would be warranted. Unlike other mental health providers, psychiatrists are able to treat both the physical and psychological aspects of illness and are able to prescribe medication as needed. The type of treatment depends on the diagnosed disorder, but in all cases, regularly scheduled follow-up visits are necessary to check for symptom improvement.
History of substance abuse
Mental health disorders can be difficult for an individual to navigate if the problem is compounded by a history of substance abuse. Psychiatrists can often help people with this combination of factors experience symptom relief while assisting with residual issues stemming from past substance abuse. In some cases, mental health issues can develop as a result of addiction, so even with recovery, ongoing care might be necessary.
Conclusion
It is sometimes difficult to decide if outside help is needed for a known or developing mental health condition. Compounding factors can make psychiatric care a necessity, but any mental health issue that is persistent and prevents a happy life is one that needs to be examined by a psychiatrist or other mental health provider.
Request an appointment here: http://www.hopetmsofny.com or call Hope TMS and Neuropsychiatric Center at (646) 578-8152 for an appointment in our New York office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Recent Posts
Everyone experiences occasional anxiety, but an anxiety disorder involves persistent, excessive worry and physical symptoms that can disrupt daily routines, relationships, and overall well-being. If left untreated, these symptoms can intensify, impacting mental and physical health. Seeking help from a psychiatrist can be a significant first step toward effectively managing anxiety disorder symptoms and getting…
A psychiatrist is a medical professional specializing in diagnosing, preventing, treating, and managing disorders affecting an individual's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Psychiatry encompasses various techniques to not only help you obtain mental clarity but also safeguard your mental health and the various relationships in your life. Take a look at three reasons why you should…
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be a complicated disorder, and ADHD treatment requires more than a one-size-fits-all approach. Successful treatment often involves a multi-faceted treatment plan tailored to the individual. Though there is no cure for ADHD, a psychiatrist can help manage it with the right combination of therapies and strategies.ADHD is a chronic…
Ketamine therapy is one of a few new depression treatments that offer help to depression patients when more traditional therapies do not produce sufficient results. If you have tried other depression treatments and are still struggling, this may be something your psychiatrist recommends. Here are some key things to know about ketamine therapy and how…