Exploring Health Concerns and Treatments

If you're battling mental health issues and you haven't gotten help yet, it might be time to schedule an appointment with a psychiatrist. You might think that visiting a counselor is the way to go, but that might not be the case. For complex psychiatric or emotional issues, a psychiatrist can give you the help you need. If you're not sure whether you need a psychiatrist, read the information below. If you're dealing with any of the issues described here, seek psychiatric help as soon as possible. 

You're Self-Harming

If you're struggling with mental health issues and you've been self-harming, speak to a psychiatrist as soon as possible. Self-harm can be a sign of deeper emotional or psychological issues. In fact, some people self-harm as a way to punish themselves for perceived wrong-doings or to mask emotional or psychological pain. If you've entered into a pattern of self-harm, a psychiatrist can provide you with the treatment you need to heal. 

You're Battling an Addiction

If you're trying to work through drug and alcohol addiction on your own and you're not having any luck, it's time to consult a psychiatrist. Drug and alcohol addiction can be difficult to recover from, especially if you don't have access to the right tools. A psychiatrist can help you get through the detoxification process safely and completely. They can also provide you with the psychiatric help you need to work through the issues that have caused the addiction. In addition, if you require extended care for your addiction, a psychiatrist can provide you with access to the hospitalization you need. 

You Have Comorbid Conditions

If you've been diagnosed with a mental health condition, such as depression, you might be able to get the care you need from a counselor. However, if you've been diagnosed with comorbid conditions, you need to go beyond your standard counselor. When you have comorbid psychiatric conditions, treatment needs to focus on both disorders, which is why you need to work with a psychiatrist. They have the training you need for your comorbid conditions. 

You Need Treatment With Medication

Finally, if you're dealing with an emotional or psychiatric issue that requires medication, it's important that you seek help from a psychiatrist. Counselors aren't licensed to prescribe medication, which means you'll need to see your primary care physician for any prescriptions you might need. Luckily, you won't have that problem when you seek help from a psychiatrist because psychiatrists graduate from medical school, which means they can prescribe any medication you might need for your psychiatric conditions.