11 February 2022
 Categories: , Blog

People with mental illnesses may experience chronic sadness, fear, and even delusions. Mental illness can be frightening and alienating for the people who suffer from it. Fortunately, there are specialists trained to help people manage the symptoms of their mental health conditions. Here are four types of psychiatric services that psychiatrists can provide:

1. Diagnostic Services

Psychiatrists can diagnose mental illnesses in patients. However, before diagnosing someone with a mental illness, a psychiatrist will first rule out other possible causes for symptoms. For example, low levels of vitamin D can cause mood disturbances similar to depression. During your first appointment, your psychiatrist may order a blood test to determine your overall level of physical health. These test results can provide valuable information that will impact your psychiatric treatment going forward.

2. Psychiatric Medication

Psychiatrists are doctors who have studied the brain extensively. Since they are medical doctors, psychiatrists have the ability to prescribe medication to patients. People who suffer from depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders may benefit from the use of medication.

Your psychiatrist will prescribe medication based on your symptoms. It's possible that the first medication you try will not have the desired effect since everyone responds to psychiatric medication differently. You will continue to meet with your psychiatrist regularly to discuss your progress on various medications. Together, you can fine-tune your medication regimen to come up with a treatment plan that best addresses your mental health conditions.

3. Talk Therapy

Talk therapy is an effective way to address many mental health concerns. Some psychiatrists provide counseling in addition to medication management services. Talk therapy can be formal or informal. Formal treatment may include the use of modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy to address mental illnesses. Talk therapy can help you uncover the roots of your negative beliefs and feelings about yourself and your situation. Developing a healthier mindset through therapy can reduce the severity of your mental health symptoms.

4. Alternative Therapies

Some people suffer from severe depression or anxiety that is resistant to typical treatments. Fortunately, psychiatrists are equipped to help people with medication-resistant mental illnesses. For example, electroconvulsive therapy can be used to treat people with severe depression that does not respond to other treatments. While ECT may sound frightening, it is a safe and effective treatment that can provide long-lasting results. Patients may also benefit from the use of treatments such as neurofeedback therapy.

For more information on psychiatric counseling, contact a local service such as Arkansas Families First.