Therapeutic mental health care using techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions can help you work through your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. However, mental illness can't always be addressed through therapy alone. In some cases, medication may be necessary to treat symptoms that affect your body and brain.
Many people feel trepidation at the thought of taking medication and are hesitant to speak with a psychiatrist. But this stigma should be broken down. Medication can provide significant relief from many mental health conditions, allowing individuals to live full, happy, and productive lives. Medication is just one part of a comprehensive treatment plan -- but is it right for you?
At the Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI), our mental health professionals can prescribe medications to help you manage your mental health symptoms, such as anxiety and depression. We understand that taking medication can be a complex decision, which is why our psychiatrists discuss all available options and provide personalized care to ensure you understand the pros and cons of any treatment plan.
Here are some important things for patients to know about starting medication for mental health conditions:
Medication for Mental Health: How a Psychiatrist Helps
So, what are psychiatrists? A psychiatrist is a medical doctor with expertise in mental health. Psychiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression. Unlike other types of therapists, they can prescribe medications to treat specific disorders.
While clinical psychology and psychiatry are closely related fields, the two have some key differences. Whereas clinical psychology focuses on psychotherapy and counseling as a method of treatment, psychiatrists specialize in medication management.
In a truly comprehensive and effective mental health treatment plan, medication, as prescribed by a psychiatrist, will work in tandem with psychotherapy. At CBI, our psychiatrists collaborate closely with clinical psychologists and other mental health providers to ensure a holistic treatment plan for all our patients.
Psychiatric Medications and Talk Therapy
Psychiatric treatments that utilize medication are completely compatible -- and usually more effective -- when used with talk therapy. For example, CBT can be used in conjunction with medication to address underlying issues that may have contributed to the onset of mental health symptoms.
In a truly comprehensive and effective mental health treatment plan, medication, as prescribed by a psychiatrist, will work in tandem with psychotherapy. At CBI, our psychiatrists collaborate closely with clinical psychologists and other mental health providers to ensure a holistic treatment plan for all our patients.
When Is It Time to Try Medical Treatment?
Some people are reluctant to start taking medication, but it is important to understand how medications can benefit a person's mental health treatment plan. A psychiatrist will typically recommend starting medication to treat mental health conditions when:
Symptoms Aren't Managed With Therapy Alone
Therapy is essential for most patients, but sometimes the symptoms of mental health problems don't improve with therapy and lifestyle changes alone. In cases like these, medications can be very effective in managing symptoms.
Symptoms Are Severe or Getting Worse
If your mental health condition has become severe or your illness is progressing despite other interventions, it may be time to consider medication. Your psychiatrist will likely prescribe medication that is appropriate for the severity of your symptoms.
Symptoms Affect Your Daily Life and Function
When mental illnesses become debilitating or interfere drastically with daily life, and normal functions such as working, studying, or maintaining relationships, a psychiatrist will likely recommend medication. This could include instances where anxiety is so overwhelming that it causes a person to avoid social situations, or where depression is so intense that it significantly hinders a person's ability to perform daily tasks or go to work.
Your Psychiatrist Sees a Therapeutic Window
Psychiatrists might also recommend medication as part of the treatment plan when there's a need for immediate intervention, while the effects of therapy gradually take hold. Psychotherapy can take months to be fully effective, and during this time, a patient might still be dealing with severe symptoms. Medication can bridge this therapeutic window, providing quicker symptom relief and ensuring the patient is comfortable as they work through their therapy sessions.
Visit Pittsburgh's Most Trusted Psychiatrist
The risks and side effects of different medications must be considered before beginning treatment, so it's important to speak with your psychiatrist about your options. The experts at the Cognitive Behavior Institute are here to help guide you through the process and find an effective mental health plan that meets your needs.
It's important to remember that you are not alone, and that there are effective treatments available for mental health conditions. A team of experienced psychiatrists at CBI can help you find the right treatment plan so you can get the relief you need.
To learn more about our psychiatric services, contact us here. If you'd like to see more articles on psychiatry from our team, check out our other blogs!
