A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (M.D.) that specializes in mental health disorders. Psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental illness through evaluations and diagnostic tests, which then allows them to formulate comprehensive treatment plans that may include therapy, medication management, and other interventions to support their patients’ mental well-being. Beginning the journey of psychiatric care can be daunting, especially when it comes to considering medication.
Let’s debunk some common myths surrounding psychiatric medications to help ease any apprehensions and empower you to make informed decisions about your mental health treatment.
Q: What should I look for when choosing the right psychiatrist?
A: Prioritize qualifications (ex: someone who is board certified), experience in treating conditions that are relevant to your needs, approachability (rapport and communication go a long way), and professionalism. Look for someone who listens attentively, offers a personalized treatment approach, and creates a safe and supportive environment for your goals to be met. Ultimately, trusting a psychiatrist with your health involves a combination of factors, and referrals from trusted sources such as your therapist or other healthcare professionals can be a great way to be connected.
Q: Are antidepressants addicting? I don’t want to be dependent on medication to feel happy.
A: SSRIs are the most common medications used in the treatment of depression, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD. They are not addictive or habit-forming. They do not produce a euphoric “high” or cravings for continued use. Instead, SSRIs work gradually to balance neurotransmitters in the brain, helping to alleviate symptoms. It’s important to discuss any concerns about dependency with your psychiatrist, but generally, SSRIs are safe and effective when used as prescribed and can help improve mood and overall well-being without creating a dependency for happiness.
Q: Can alcohol, marijuana, or other substance use affect mental health?
A: Yes! Alcohol, marijuana, and other substance use can exacerbate mental health issues and interfere with treatment outcomes. They can impair cognitive function, exacerbate symptoms of depression and anxiety, and increase the risk of developing psychiatric disorders or worsening existing ones.
Q: How can alcohol and marijuana interfere with psychiatric treatment? Those help relax me.
A: Actually, alcohol is a known depressant because it slows down the central nervous system, resulting in reduced brain activity and a sense of relaxation or sedation. While it may initially produce feelings of euphoria or relaxation, ongoing use can lead to depressive symptoms. Alcohol can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in regulating mood. This imbalance can contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety, especially during periods of heavy drinking or withdrawal. Alcohol can also cause rebound anxiety, particularly as its effects wear off. As the body metabolizes alcohol, neurotransmitter levels fluctuate, potentially leading to increased feelings of anxiety or agitation.
THC has the properties of both a depressant and a stimulant. While THC may provide temporary relief from symptoms of depression or anxiety for some individuals, its long-term effects on mental health are still being studied. Excessive or prolonged use of THC-containing products can lead to dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and potential exacerbation of mental health issues.
In general, substances can interfere with psychiatric treatment by reducing the effectiveness of medications, causing adverse reactions or interactions, and impeding progress in therapy. Substance use can also undermine motivation for treatment and hinder recovery efforts.
Q: Why do psychiatrists recommend medications instead of therapy alone?
A: Psychiatrists may recommend medications in addition to therapy because certain psychiatric conditions, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and others often require a combination of medication and therapy for optimal management. Medications can help alleviate symptoms more rapidly and effectively, allowing individuals to engage more fully in therapy and make meaningful progress in their treatment journey.
For support in your therapy and psychiatry journey, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. At Avedia Counseling Center, we can answer questions, get you connected to resources, and support you in every step along the way.
Jasmine Sawhne, MD, MBA is a board-certified psychiatrist and founder of Power of Psychiatry, a telemedicine practice serving the states of California and New York. Dr. Sawhne specializes in mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, postpartum disorders, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders and psychosis, through diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. For more information please visit: www.jasminesawhne.com
