There are over 200 mental illnesses—and that just covers those that are recognized as mental illnesses in today’s world. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) is regularly updating their manual with new classified forms of mental illness. Long story short, there are many different mental health conditions out there, some of which you might come face to face with at some point in your life. This meeting can be scary, but you don’t have to confront your illness(es) alone. Mental health professionals, such as counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists are able to help you.
I have never been remotely ashamed of having been depressed. Never. What’s there to be ashamed of? I went through a really tough time and I am quite proud that I got out of that. —J. K. Rowling
Counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists can help you in different stages of your journey. When it comes to medication management, the psychiatrists at Thriveworks Germantown Counseling are able to assist you. Medication management is important, as it ensures that the individual gets the right prescription, of which proves to help them! Psychiatrists and nurse practitioners also ensure that their clients take their medication correctly, including at the right time of day.
Here at Thriveworks Germantown in Montgomery County, we are happy to offer online medication management. In other words, your psychiatrist will help you right at home, via telephone or video chat. You’ll only need to come into the office if a test requires it. If this sounds like something you are interested in, consider reaching out to Thriveworks Germantown Counseling today. Just call (410) 910-2708. Our online psychiatrists are here and ready to help!
What Exactly Is Medication Management?
Medication management is pretty self-explanatory: This services is designed to help people manage their medication. This means making sure the individual takes their medication on time and correctly. For example, it might be imperative that you take your medication with food.
The online psychiatrists and nurse practitioners at Thriveworks Germantown, MD can help you find the right medication and get into a routine of taking it properly. These are knowledgeable, skilled, and experienced mental health professionals. They understand just how important medication management is to treatment and healing. They will work to ensure that you don’t take too much or too little of your medicine; that you take it at night or in the morning (depending on your unique situation); that you take it with or without food, and so on.
Benefits of Working with an Online Psychiatrist
As we just explained, medication management is designed to help clients manage their medication. Therefore, it is an important tool for ensuring proper treatment of individuals as they work to manage their mental health condition. Benefits of working with an online psychiatrist at Thriveworks Germantown, who can provide you with medication management, include:
- Greater comfort: Naturally, working with a professional to manage your medication will make you feel more comfortable and less stressed, whether you’re the one on medication or a loved one is receiving this mental health help.
- Reduction in unwanted side effects: Every medication comes with side effects that one would rather do without. However, many of the unwanted side effects any given individual experiences often come as a result of taking one’s medication incorrectly—for example, taking too much or too little. Your Thriveworks Online Psychiatrist will ensure that you know exactly how to take your medication so that you don’t have to worry about these unnecessary side effects.
If you are looking for medication management, you’re in the right place. Thriveworks Germantown psychiatrists and nurse practitioners understand just how important this service is. They want to make sure you get it right!
Speak With an ADHD Psychiatrist in Germantown, MD
If you see your child having trouble in school, finding it difficult to concentrate, or acting impulsively, it’s natural to be worried. You want the very best for your child and you may find yourself wondering: Is this part of the normal developmental process? Or is there something wrong?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a common disorder that typically begins in early childhood. ADHD affects both children and adults and is a chronic condition characterized by impulsive, inattentive, and hyperactive behaviors. While some people learn to cope with mild symptoms on their own, others struggling with ADHD may find it difficult to function in everyday life without treatment.
Diagnosing ADHD on your own can be difficult. There is no simple test that will give you a yes or no answer — the process is far more nuanced than that. For one thing, every child develops at their own pace and has their own set of personal strengths and weaknesses. For another, high energy, a lack of concentration, and forgetfulness are all quite common among children without ADHD too.
If your child is experiencing symptoms that are interfering with their life, it may be time to contact an ADHD psychiatrist so you can get a professional assessment. At Thriveworks Counseling in Germantown, MD, trained psychiatrists are standing by to offer professional care and compassionate support.
Examples of ADHD Symptoms
ADHD symptoms can vary greatly from individual to individual, both in terms of type and severity. However, here are some examples:
- Excessive fidgeting
- Inability to remain still
- Difficulty with time management
- Difficulty staying seated
- Impatience
- Memory problems
- Difficulty staying quiet
- Tendency to interrupt conversations
- Trouble staying organized
- Concentration issues
Adults and children with ADHD often fall into one of three subcategories. They may be hyperactive with impulse control issues, inattentive with concentration and organization issues, or a combination of the two. However, since many symptoms of ADHD are shared by other mental or mood disorders, it’s a good idea to speak with a licensed psychiatrist who specializes in diagnosing and treating ADHD.
If you suspect your child is struggling with ADHD, consider speaking to a professional sooner rather than later. The quicker a diagnosis is given and treatment begins, the easier it will be for them to develop habits that reduce symptoms and give them control over their life. To get started with ADHD testing, reach out and schedule an appointment with a licensed professional at Thriveworks Counseling in Germantown, MD.
How ADHD is Diagnosed and Treated
While there is no specific cure for ADHD, symptoms can be treated and managed effectively under the professional guidance of a licensed ADHD psychiatrist. A professional can evaluate you or your child’s symptoms according to specific diagnostic criteria.
Individuals with ADHD have different strengths and weaknesses, so a single test isn’t typically enough to make a determination. Instead, a diagnosis often involves a comprehensive physical examination, various psychological tests, direct observation, and client interviews. A close look at your medical history is also important so other conditions can be ruled out.
There are several treatment options for ADHD including behavioral therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. A combination of these solutions is also common. As a licensed medical doctor, a psychiatrist can determine if medication will be right for your situation, particularly when dealing with young children. They will be able to assist with medication management and evaluate for potential side effects during treatment.
Behavioral therapy can work to address specific problematic behaviors, improve self-care habits, and establish healthier routines. For some clients, a narrow focus on a specific issue is the most effective way to start rather than attempting widescale change at the onset. Simple goals can make it easier to observe and reward your accomplishments, boosting your self-esteem so you can work toward your next goal.
At Thriveworks, we help clients develop effective strategies and attainable goals to optimize the recovery process. Just because you or your child are experiencing ADHD symptoms now doesn’t mean they have to interfere with your life forever. We’re here to provide the help you need at Thriveworks Counseling in Germantown, MD.
Schedule an ADHD Appointment in Germantown, MD
At Thriveworks Counseling you’ll find caring and experienced professionals dedicated to improving the quality of life of our clients. We aim to remove any barriers that stand in the way of you or your child receiving help with mental, emotional, or behavioral issues. This is why we’re committed to offering flexible scheduling, with evening and weekend session times available. We’re also highly accommodating if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointments.
Online services are available that allow you to speak to a mental health professional from a comfortable location such as your home. This is a great option if you have a busy schedule, lack access to reliable transportation, or have another obstacle that prevents you from regular in-person visits. You’ll also find we have a wide variety of exclusive benefits available upon becoming a Thriveworks client including a community forum, our Therapy Buddy app, and a life coaching Q&A service.
If you or your or your child is struggling with symptoms of ADHD, contact us at Thriveworks Counseling in Germantown, MD to make an appointment.
Consult With an Anxiety Psychiatrist in Germantown, MD
Everyone knows what anxiety feels like. Perhaps you get those butterflies in your stomach before you ask someone out on a date. Or maybe you experience sweaty palms and gastrointestinal issues before that big presentation at work.
But anxiety can also be an all-consuming feeling of worry, nervousness, or apprehensiveness. Anxiety disorder is a condition that can make completing simple tasks such as working, socializing, or sleeping extremely difficult.
This kind of condition is more common than you may realize, and is experienced by both adults and children. Some forms of anxiety include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder, which is characterized by an abundant feeling of worry lasting for at least six months.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder, or the persistent desire to organize one’s life through rituals that must be completed to avoid undesirable consequences.
- Panic disorders, which include the sudden onslaught of intense feelings of fear combined with physical pain and/or panic attacks.
- Phobias, such as mysophobia and nyctophobia, which are fearful responses to specific objects or situations.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder, which can be triggered by witnessing or surviving a traumatic event.
- Separation anxiety disorder, which is a fear that separating from a loved one will result in their injury or death. It may also be the fear that you’ll never see that loved one again.
- Social anxiety disorder, or the fear of common social situations such as parties, visiting stores, or attending classes.
Our fears often seem insurmountable. But with the right help and patience, we can cope with even the highest level of stress and anxiety and go on to live productive lives.
An anxiety psychiatrist is trained to research and create effective treatments that tackle specific challenges for specific individuals. With their help, a difficult disorder can become a manageable one.
If you’ve ever experienced shortness of breath, panic, or other symptoms of anxiety, please contact the anxiety psychiatrists at Thriveworks in Germantown, MD. We’ve aided many people with anxiety on their road to success and we’d love to help you too.
What Are Common Anxiety Symptoms?
There’s no boilerplate guideline for anxiety. Mental health problems can impact different people in different ways. Nevertheless, there are some common symptoms across the different types of anxiety.
Anxiety symptoms can include:
- Profuse sweating
- Persistent worrying or fear
- Elevated heart rate
- Fatigue
- Panic attacks
- Numbness
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Chills
- Sleep disruptions
- Muscle cramps and tensing
- Fidgeting
Symptoms present differently based on the type of anxiety you may be experiencing. Panic attacks may be more common in people with panic disorders while trouble sleeping may be more common for people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Depending on your unique situation, you may have experienced some, all, or none of the above listed symptoms.
Anxiety may stem from genetics, the environment, exposure to substances, hormonal imbalances, or other contributing factors. It may be coupled with other mental illnesses such as depression and for people with anxiety, it can impact their ability to function normally in their daily life.
The anxiety psychiatrists and mental health professionals at Thriveworks in Germantown, MD have spent years studying this complex illness and customizing effective treatments. When you’re ready, they’re here to offer support and guidance for you too.
How Can a Psychiatrist Who Specializes in Anxiety Help Me?
Anxiety is serious but it does not have to define you. A licensed professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating anxiety can help you get your life back on track.
A psychiatrist is a trained medical professional. Because of their educational background, they can prescribe medications, perform psychoanalysis (talk therapy), and treat medical conditions. They may perform cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or encourage mindfulness and other relaxation techniques. They may also share anxiety management techniques (such as keeping a journal) and help you identify triggers so you can develop coping skills to combat them.
Your psychiatrist may decide to choose one treatment method or to combine treatment methods. Regardless, your mental health professional will create a safe environment where you can feel confident speaking up about your symptoms and concerns.
Anxiety counseling is a team effort. By working together with your licensed professional, you can reduce your anxiety and get back on track.
Licensed Depression Psychiatrists in Germantown, MD
Feeling sad is a completely normal part of life. You might feel down after a pet dies, after watching a sad movie, or when something doesn’t go your way at work. Sometimes, you might even feel depressed after going through a painful or traumatic experience like a death in the family. Short-lived depression can be a normal response to parts of life. However, for some people, depression can become a problem that won’t go away.
Depression can be considered a disorder when symptoms are persistent and they keep you from living your best life and achieving your goals. People living with depression might feel tired, worn out, and hopeless. Seeking out support can be incredibly difficult but we want you to know that help is available.
Working with a mental health professional can help you reclaim your mental state. Depression psychiatrists are doctors who focus on treating, managing, and preventing depression for their clients. They’re trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques that can help you improve your mental health and reduce symptoms of depression.
Do you want to speak to a psychiatrist to help you with your depression? Call our office today at Thriveworks Counseling in Germantown, MD. You can speak to a member of our scheduling team –– a real person (not a robot) who will answer any questions you have about the therapeutic process and set you up with an online appointment.
Symptoms, Causes, and Types of Depression
Depression is a complicated disorder with many different causes. Brain chemicals play a role in depression, but genetics, stress, life events, and other medical problems can also cause or worsen the disease. This means that two people can experience similar depression symptoms even though the root cause is different for each person.
Depression can look different for everyone but here are some of the most common symptoms of depression to watch for:
- Sadness or hopelessness
- Fatigue and exhaustion
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Difficulty waking up
- Substance abuse or addiction
- Periods of extreme high or low mood
- Difficulty concentrating
- Suicidal thoughts
There are many different types of depression. “Clinical depression” typically refers to major depressive disorder, a disorder that causes low mood and can make functioning difficult. Bipolar disorder is another type of depression that causes periods of low mood, periods of manic high mood, and periods of normalcy in between.
No matter what you’re facing, treatment can help you reduce symptoms and reclaim your life again. Psychiatrists from Thriveworks Counseling in Germantown, MD can help you understand what’s causing your depression and work with you on feeling normal again. Call our office today to get started.
Depression Psychiatrists: What To Expect
Psychiatrists are doctors who specialize in treating mental health disorders while depression psychiatrists are ones who focus specifically on treating depression. Their medical training allows them to understand how the body and mind impact each other.
One of the most common ways to treat depression is through psychotherapy, also called talk therapy. There are many different therapeutic techniques your provider can use depending on your specific symptoms and how they impact your life.
One type of psychotherapy is called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which can address a range of mental health problems. It’s a research-backed method that helps people change negative or unhelpful thought patterns.
Medication is another important part of psychiatric treatment for some people with depression. Certain drugs like antidepressants target specific brain chemicals to reduce depression symptoms. Antidepressants aren’t used in every treatment plan but they can be helpful for some people, especially when combined with psychotherapy.
Psychiatrists are trained professionals who can create a space for you to discuss your problems and move past them. If you want to start working with a depression psychiatrist, call our office at Thriveworks Counseling in Germantown, MD today.
Schedule a Psychiatry Appointment at Thriveworks Germantown, MD
If you are experiencing symptoms of a mental illness, consider reaching out to Thriveworks Germantown, MD. Give our office a call at (410) 910-2708 to speak to one of our scheduling specialists, who will help you set up your appointment right away. Keep in mind that this is online medication management. Our psychiatrists and nurse practitioners can help you right from home, thanks to modern-day technology! Just hop on a phone call or video chat.
Are you ready to schedule your appointment? We’re excited to hear it! We hope to hear from you soon.
