The term “mental health” or “mental illness” can feel scary for some patients who have never experienced a change in their mental state before. For as long as we can remember, mental health has been treated as a taboo, “sweep under the rug” topic by the mainstream media, causing those who need mental health help to avoid it at all costs.
Here’s the thing: mental health is just as important as physical health. You should feel as comfortable talking to your doctor about a physical ailment as you do about a panic attack. It’s time that we, as a society, look through a different lens when it comes to treating mental health, especially since a healthy mind can be most beneficial to a healthy body and way of life.
What is a psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner has a medical degree that allows them to diagnose various mental health conditions and prescribe any needed medications.
In many cases, a patient will require both a psychiatrist and therapist to help with effectively managing a mental health diagnosis.
When should I seek psychiatric evaluation?
Knowing when to see a psychiatrist is key to managing a mental health illness or condition. The reality of the situation is that there is no set timeframe or light bulb moment that alerts you that it’s time for mental health assistance. The key is to pay attention to your body and mind and recognize when your mental health ailments interfere with your everyday life.
Key indicators that now may be the time to see a psychiatric professional.
The most alarming “yes” to whether or not you should seek the assistance of a psychiatrist is if you’re having debilitating symptoms that cause you to miss school or work. A massive shift in your daily life and schedule caused by mental health symptoms often indicates that an underlying mental health condition may be the cause. Don’t let your symptoms control your life. Instead, seek treatment to help manage them with a psychiatrist.
Other significant indicators that you may need a psychiatrist include:
The Transition From or Accompaniment to Talk Therapy
Typically, if you try therapy at least once a week for two to three months and don’t feel like you’re getting better or having any improvement, you should consider seeing a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner for further evaluation and assistance with your mental health condition. Also, if your therapist is recommending that you see one, you should take their recommendation and schedule an appointment with one for additional assistance.
Severe Anxiety Symptoms
With anxiety, if you’re having several panic attacks a week and experiencing many physical symptoms daily, such as headache, stomach aches, or heart palpitations, we recommend seeking treatment from a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner.
A Previous Mental Health Diagnosis
If you have bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, see a psychiatrist or a psychiatric nurse practitioner. These conditions often require a strict treatment regimen that includes medications alongside therapy.
Having premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is also another type of condition that requires psychiatric intervention. With this condition, you usually need to be on medication, whether it’s birth control prescribed by a family practice provider or being on an antidepressant prescribed by a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner.
A Diagnosis Clarification
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with a mental health illness or condition, you may want deeper clarification. Because psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and therapists can all make diagnoses, it is important to seek medical review from a psychiatry professional if you are uncertain about the diagnosis given to you or if you have additional questions around it that may involve the inclusion of medication in your daily life.
Active or Previous Substance Use
People with mental health issues often turn to substances like alcohol or drugs to cope with their symptoms and feelings. If you notice a change in the amount or type of substance you or a loved one is using, it may be time to seek mental health assistance to help with substance abuse and underlying mental health conditions.
Physical Symptoms Tied to Mental Health Struggles
Various symptoms can come into play when living with an undiagnosed mental health disorder. It is vital to see a psychiatric evaluation if you are experiencing:
- Changes in your sleep patterns
- A sudden inability to control your emotions
- Withdrawal from social situations and activities you once enjoyed
- Excessive worry
- Deep sadness
- Frequent nightmares
- Unexplained temper tantrums
- Stomach pain, headaches, or random aches throughout the body
The bottom line? If you struggle with variable emotions, harmful thoughts, or an overall change in your mental state, it may be time to seek professional treatment with a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner. Don’t live with debilitating symptoms. Contact us today.