Ian was always the first to ask for seconds at dinner. But his girlfriend Summer can’t remember the last time he did that. In fact, she can’t remember the last time he finished his first plate. The more Summer thinks about it, Ian hasn’t been eating that much. He has, however, been exercising more than usual.
Summer starts to grow concerned. She confronts Ian about her observations but he brushes them off. “I eat plenty! And exercising makes me feel good,” he says, “There’s nothing wrong with that.” Summer accepts this explanation at first, but as time goes on, it becomes abundantly clear that Ian has a problem.
Ian agrees to talk to a psychiatrist about his change in eating and exercising habits. They also discuss other changes, such as the presence of:
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Anxiety
- Constipation
- Depressive thoughts
- Occasional binge-eating
Ian’s psychiatrist diagnoses him with anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder that is characterized by eating too little and exercising too much with the goal of obtaining a desired weight. Next, he comes up with a treatment plan for Ian that involves talk therapy and medication.
Over the course of the next few months, Ian starts to improve. He hasn’t returned completely to normal, but he’s getting there. And for the first time in a long time, he has hope.
Psychiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, like eating disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression. If you are experiencing symptoms of a mental illness, consider talking to an online psychiatrist at Thriveworks Counseling in Orlando, FL. We’re here for you.
When Is It Time to Talk to a Psychiatrist?
For many people, it’s difficult to ask for help—especially when it comes to our mental health. Stigma surrounds mental health help, and while it is improving, it is still an obstacle for many in receiving the mental health help they need.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition, it is time to talk to a psychiatrist. These professionals specialize in providing psychiatric care. And here at Thriveworks, our psychiatrists are devoted to offering a safe, nonjudgmental space for working through personal challenges.
To be more specific, it is time to talk to a psychiatrist if you are experiencing…
- Anxious or depressive thoughts
- Addiction thoughts and behaviors
- Negative side effects from a traumatic experience
- Symptoms of an eating disorder, like anorexia or bulimia
- Difficulty sleeping, such as insomnia or another sleep disturbance
- Thoughts of self-harm
- Negative side effects from a psychiatric medication
Psychiatrists can help you better understand your experience with the above. These are often characteristic of a harmful mental health condition. The good news, though, is that talking to a psychiatrist is taking that first step in managing your condition and living better.
Psychiatric Treatment: What Does It Look Like?
Everybody’s different. When it comes to mental health treatment, this means that the right approach to treatment can change from one individual to another. However, the most common and effective approaches to psychiatric treatment are therapy and medication.
Some people benefit best from one or the other, while others benefit the most from a combination of therapy and medication. Fortunately, psychiatrists are qualified to provide both. A major difference between psychiatrists and other mental health providers is that they can prescribe and manage medication.
If you can benefit from prescription medication, your psychiatrist will work to understand your history with medications. They will also be sure to explain exactly how you should take the medication you are prescribed, such as with or without food. Then, they will monitor your progress and make changes to your medication as needed.
The ultimate goal with therapy and/or medication is to help you live better. You can trust that your psychiatrist at Thriveworks Counseling in Orlando, FL will stay committed to helping you live better through mental health treatment.
Schedule a Psychiatry Appointment at Thriveworks in Orlando, FL
Thriveworks Counseling in Orlando, FL remains dedicated to helping people live happier, more successful lives. Often, talking to a mental health professional helps individuals get there.
If you think you could benefit from talking to a psychiatrist, we will set you up with one of our skilled online psychiatrists. They can conduct the majority of your appointments online, via phone call or video chat, but may ask that you come in for an occasional assessment or check-up.
We look forward to accompanying you on this journey. Call us today to schedule.
