Psychiatry is the branch of medicine that evaluates and treats various mental, emotional, and behavioral health disorders. Psychiatrists are highly trained and experienced medical doctors who help people to overcome mental illness and to live fully functional, happy lives.
Here’s what you should know about psychiatry, how it could benefit you or a loved one, and where you can find the best psychiatrist in Richmond, VA.
What Psychiatrists Do
Psychiatrists diagnose, treat, and help prevent mental and behavioral disorders ranging from depression, anxiety, and panic disorders to complex issues, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, eating disorders (such as anorexia), and substance use problems (such as alcoholism and drug abuse). These highly trained physicians help patients stabilize their thinking, emotions, behavior, and significant relationships using medications and therapies proven to work.
In their practices, psychiatrists employ the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) along with the results of in-depth and in-person evaluations of the individual’s symptoms, thought patterns, observable behaviors, and methods of communication. Psychiatrists assess and treat children, teens, and adults in various settings, including medical offices or clinic settings, schools, hospitals, psychiatric facilities, prisons, and places of employment. They work closely with primary care physicians to understand medical and family histories, current medications, and injuries.
What Psychiatric Treatment May Involve
Psychiatric treatment is highly personalized according to medical and mental/emotional needs and to the patient’s own desired outcomes. It can include:
- Prescription medications, such as antipsychotics, serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), anti-anxiety medications, and more
- Talk therapy to help the patient develop coping skills to change behaviors and ineffective communication styles
- How Cognitive Behavior Therapy Can Help You | Epic Health Partners to improve thought patterns, particularly those involving anger, sadness, poor self-image, and more
- Electrical stimulation therapies for advanced schizophrenia and other disorders
Psychiatrists also help people explore the reasons for addictive behaviors, such as alcohol abuse, drug abuse, gambling, and more. These physicians help stabilize people in crisis, particularly if they are a danger to themselves or those around them in the home, workplace, school, or community.
Psychiatric Services in Richmond, VA
If you or a loved one is looking for psychiatric support, contact EPIC Health Partners, LLC. Our team of highly skilled and experienced professional counselors, social workers, and dedicated supporting staff provides a comprehensive range of mental health services to address the unique needs of each and every client.
To find out more about our services or schedule a consultation, call us today at (434) 835-4601 or fill out our convenient and secure online appointment request form.
