Psychiatry in West Palm Beach, FL—Psychiatrists and Medication Management
Many people go through life struggling with significant mental health issues. For example, take Monica Geller from the television show Friends. Monica suffers from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). She feels the compulsion to clean constantly and becomes very anxious when a mess is made.
Monica also struggles with the need to feel in control over every part of her life. This later causes her anxiety when she discusses having a baby with Chandler, as she realizes that there are many things she cannot control when it comes to a baby. Both her compulsion to clean constantly and her need for control cause strain on her personal relationships. Monica could have greatly benefited from psychiatric care.
A psychiatrist would have been able to evaluate Monica’s mental health state and provide her with a diagnosis. Through psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), she would have been able to learn coping mechanisms to help with her compulsions. A psychiatrist would have also been able to provide Monica with a medication, such as an antidepressant, to help treat her OCD.
If you think you may benefit from psychiatric care, like Monica, consider scheduling an appointment with one of our online psychiatrists at Thriveworks. You can schedule your appointment at our Thriveworks office in West Palm Beach, FL today and have a phone or video session with a psychiatrist within 24-48 hours.
What Disorders Can a Psychiatrist Treat?
A Psychiatrist is a medical professional who has specialized in the field of psychiatry. In medical school, psychiatrists study the regions of the brain that control our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as the connections between neurochemistry and these actions. This allows them to help determine the biological factors that contribute to mental disorders and properly diagnose them.
Now that you have a better understanding of what a psychiatrist is, let’s look at some of the common mental disorders they can treat:
- OCD: According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), this mental disorder affects 2.2 million adults worldwide. Symptoms of OCD may include fear of contamination or dirt, needing things orderly and symmetrical, doubting and having difficulty tolerating uncertainty, and many others. A psychiatrist will investigate to discern the medical component of these symptoms and then provide a tailored treatment plan. They may also prescribe an antidepressant, which is commonly used to treat OCD.
- Anxiety: According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), this is the most common mental disorder in the United States, affecting over 40 million adults. Anxiety symptoms may include feelings of panic, danger, or dread, rapid heart rate, nervousness, restlessness, and more. After evaluating their symptoms, a psychiatrist may recommend that a client undergo psychotherapy, such as CBT, as well as prescribe an anti anxiety medication.
- Depression: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), this mental disorder impacts 264 million people globally. Symptoms of depression can include loss of interest in activities, decreased mood, feelings of hopelessness, weight changes, and many others. Once a diagnosis has been made, a psychiatrist will likely have the client start psychotherapy, as well as potentially start an antidepressant regimen.
Should I See a Psychiatrist?
Due to the broad spectrum of mental illnesses that can be treated with psychiatry, there are many reasons why you may want to seek psychiatric care. Every individual will likely have a different reason; however, here are some factors you might want to take into consideration:
- You are exhibiting signs and symptoms of a significant mental illness (e.g. anxiety, loss of interest, decreased mood, fear of contamination or dirt, or difficulty tolerating uncertainty)
- Addictive behaviors (e.g. substance abuse or gambling)
- Low self-esteem or body image issues
- Violent or aggressive thoughts and behaviors towards yourself or others
- You find life overwhelming and are feeling hopeless
- You are a victim of any form of abuse (e.g. emotional, physical, or sexual)
- You have been referred by a medical professional or therapist
A psychiatrist will be able to conduct both laboratory and psychological testing to help discern the cause of your symptoms and provide a professional assessment of your mental state.
Medication Management: What Do I Need to Know?
When you begin the discussion of using medication for your symptoms, you will need to inform your psychiatrist of any current medications you are taking, as well as any allergies you may have to medications or ingredients. You should also provide them with your medical history before starting any new medications.
After choosing a medication, your psychiatrist will provide you with instructions on how to properly take your medication, as well as inform you of any potential side effects.
If your medication is not yielding the desired results, tell your psychiatrist. They will be happy to prescribe a different medication, one that is a better fit for you.
Scheduling An Appointment with a Psychiatrist at Thriveworks in West Palm Beach, FL
If you think you may benefit from psychiatric care, consider working with an online psychiatrist at Thriveworks in West Palm Beach, FL. Our psychiatrists accept most insurance plans, offer evening and weekend appointments, and new clients may see a psychiatrist in as little as 24 hours. You can schedule an appointment online or by calling (561) 536-5293. Our scheduling specialists are standing by to help you thrive.
