Some days, Tom can’t even get out of bed. His sadness is overwhelming. It weighs on him like a lead jacket. He’s easily frustrated and grows more irritable every day. He’s falling behind at work, doesn’t see friends anymore, and avoids activities he used to enjoy. The most troubling thing is, Tom can’t explain why he feels this way.
It’s possible that Tom is suffering from depression, one of the most common mental health disorders in the U.S. Mental health disorders such as depression affect millions of people from every age group, background, and walk of life. You never know — a friend, neighbor, or family member could be facing a mental health issue right now. Perhaps you’re facing one too.
Fortunately, better days are possible. Psychiatrists apply a variety of methods, including therapy and prescription medications, to diagnose and treat various mental health issues. These essential mental health services help people reduce their symptoms and take control of their well-being once more.
If you’re facing a mental health problem that’s restricting the way you live your life, consider calling Thriveworks in Elk Grove, CA to meet with a psychiatrist.
Symptoms That Might Prompt Psychiatric Treatment
Psychiatry is a field of medicine that focuses on the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health disorders. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental, emotional, and behavioral health.
Board-certified psychiatrists complete a rigorous education and training program that includes medical school, four years of a psychiatry residency (performed in a hospital or clinical environment), and a certification exam. The process can take eight years following college.
Many people are under the assumption that psychiatric services are helpful only to those who present the most severe symptoms. That isn’t the case. Psychiatric treatment can serve people with a variety of issues. Perhaps you have suffered from insomnia or panic attacks recently. Or your depression symptoms won’t abate. Maybe you have had thoughts of self-harm that you want to discuss.
Symptoms don’t necessarily require a sudden trigger. It’s possible that you have experienced sadness, anger, or feelings of hopelessness for a long period of time. Symptoms could range in presentation or severity and might include one or more of these:
- Severe anxiety
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Persistent sadness or numbness
- Personality changes
- Mood swings
- Outbursts of anger
- Hallucinations
- Signs of addiction
- Distress in social settings
- Panic or phobias
By seeing a psychiatrist, you can learn how to cope with these symptoms and confront the challenges they present. If you think it might be time to get help, consider making an appointment to see a psychiatrist at Thriveworks in Elk Grove, CA.
What To Expect From Psychiatric Treatment
Because they are medical doctors, psychiatrists are trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders from a medical perspective. They can perform physical exams and lab tests as well as psychological evaluations to get a complete picture of your situation. In doing so, psychiatrists can determine whether symptoms have mental or physical causes.
Psychiatrists can combine psychotherapy and prescription medication as part of their treatment plans. With psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, a psychiatrist can help you discuss your symptoms and guide you through effective coping strategies.
Psychiatrists can also prescribe medications to treat the symptoms of mental health disorders. If this is right for you, your provider will monitor your medication for effectiveness and potential side effects to make sure it’s having the desired impact.
As with any medical issue, prevention is key. With early intervention, you have the best chance of overcoming your symptoms and living a healthy, happy life. Give us a call at Thriveworks in Elk Grove, CA so we can customize a treatment plan specifically for you.
Schedule a Psychiatry Appointment at Thriveworks in Elk Grove, CA
At Thriveworks, we want you to be comfortable seeing a psychiatrist so we make the process as accessible as possible.
Thriveworks’ online psychiatry program offers flexible scheduling and convenient therapy options by phone or video. Many people prefer online counseling since it requires less time, can be conducted at home, and provides a comfortable way to discuss sensitive topics.
At Thriveworks, new clients often can see a psychiatrist within 48 hours and sometimes even on the same day. Mental health professionals are available between appointments by phone or email to address new concerns as they arise.
Thriveworks accepts many major insurance plans and offers benefits such as a flexible cancellation policy, Q&A sessions, and life coaching to enhance your experience.
If you’re struggling with symptoms of a mental illness, emotional disorder, or another mental health issue, consider making a psychiatry appointment today at Thriveworks in Elk Grove, CA. You can thrive — we can help.
