Do you know what psychiatric medication is and how to find the right medication management provider? Psychiatric medication management is for both adults and parents of children and adolescents dealing with mental health issues.
Let’s explore how psychiatric medication management works, its benefits, and how you can find the right mental healthcare provider near you.
How Does Psychiatric Medication Benefit People Who Have Mental Health Issues?
Psychiatric medications often play an important role in the treatment of mental health issues. Many of these medications help balance chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. The proper balance helps people with symptoms of disorders such as depression, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and more.
While these medications help people manage their conditions, they are not true cures. That said, the right mental healthcare provider can help you determine if medication would benefit you, your condition and the goals you wish to achieve in treatment.
In 2021, approximately 21.6 percent of Americans received some form of mental health treatment. Medication is a frequent component of psychiatric care plans, providing relief and stability in cognition, mood, behavior and interpersonal relationships. In short, patients on medications can experience a dramatic improvement in overall quality of life.
Is Medication the Only Way to Manage Symptoms?
While medication is a powerful tool in mental healthcare, it works best when combined with other therapies. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, patient education, and ongoing support from a qualified mental healthcare provider complement medication.
This multi-faceted and custom-tailored approach truly enhances treatment outcomes. These therapies help individuals understand their conditions, develop effective coping strategies and make positive changes in how they think, feel and behave.
How Can a Mental Healthcare Provider Assist with Psychiatric Medication Management?
A mental healthcare provider plays a vital role in psychiatric medication management. He or she assesses the patient’s needs through in-depth consultation, monitoring treatment progress and adjusting medications as necessary. The right psychiatric provider ensures that the medication works while minimizing potential side effects.
Regular consultations with an experienced and caring provider help the individual maintain a balanced response to treatment. A wise provider delivers the compassionate support and listening ear the patient needs.
The patient, in turn, reports side effects of medications and other therapies. The patient must be honest about symptoms, including both positive and negative changes in them. An open relationship leads to more accurate treatment, medication management and improved and lasting therapeutic outcomes.
Where Can I Find the Right Medication Management Provider?
Finding the right medication management provider involves factors such as provider location, telehealth options and the provider’s areas of expertise. Look for providers who specialize in psychiatric evaluation and treatments specific to your needs.
You may ask your primary care physician for a referral. Trusted friends and relatives also may give you a name or two to investigate online. Be sure to check the psychiatrist’s credentials through the American Board of Medical Specialties’ website.
Finally, find a provider who communicates well and makes you feel comfortable and understood. That provider should do an initial face-to-face consultation to review:
- Your symptoms.
- Your medical, medication, and family history.
- Any lifestyle elements, life losses, or other stressors which could be contributing to your symptoms.
With today’s advances in information technology and communication, mental health patients can take advantage of telehealth consultations right in the privacy of their home or office. Be sure to consider this kind of care when you are evaluating a psychiatric medication management provider.
Psychiatric Medication Management in Virginia and North Carolina
For those residing in Virginia and North Carolina, Apex Psychiatry offers comprehensive telehealth services. Led by psychiatrist Dr. Madhav Muppa, our experienced team specializes in psychiatric evaluation, therapies, life coaching, and medication management.
We serve the needs of children, teens, and adults. Our services are secure, confidential, and tailored to facilitate positive changes in mood, thought patterns, and behaviors. We are a premiere telehealth psychiatry practice that combines the power of modern mental services with the compassion and confidentiality of one-on-one therapy.
If you are ready to explore the services of a mental healthcare provider, reach out to Apex Psychiatry. For Virginia residents, please call (540) 906-2739. North Carolina residents may contact us at (980) 364-2739. Alternatively, complete our appointment request form to schedule your personalized consultation with our psychiatrist.
Take the first step towards better mental health. We look forward to hearing from you and supporting your mental health journey.
