Mental health problems are very common, with an estimated 20% of children and 17.9% of adults being diagnosed with a mental disorder at some point in time. Medications are an important aspect of treatment for many mental health problems. Particularly for more serious mental illness, medication management by a psychiatrist is the best way to maintain balanced mental health.
Do I Need Psychiatric Medication?
Many of our patients are nervous about taking psychiatric medications or wonder if they really need a drug to treat their mental health problems. At IPS Clinic, we encourage our patients to think about psychiatric medications just like any other type of medication. For example, if you were diagnosed with high blood pressure, taking a medication might be an important part of your care. The same is true for conditions such as major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or other mental health problems.
Of course, not everyone who walks through our doors needs psychiatric medications. Many of our clients receive behavioral health services that improve their quality of life and help them manage their mental health symptoms. However, for certain conditions, psychiatric medications may help you better engage with other therapeutic aspects of your treatment, such as individual or group therapy. Reviewing the risks and benefits of a potential drug with your prescribing physician is the best way to make sure it is safe and appropriate for you.
Purpose of Psychiatric Medication Management
When it comes to psychiatric medications, there is no “one size fits all” solution. Different people respond differently to certain medications. The purpose of psychiatric medication management services is to ensure that you receive the appropriate type and dosage of medications that best manages your symptoms.
Like all medications, psychiatric medications may come with certain side effects. Side effects tend to be mild and may pass within a few days or weeks of beginning a new medication. However, if side effects are unpleasant or interfere with your daily functioning, tell your doctor! Our medication management team will work with you to find the medication that is best. We also want to know if you do not feel that a medication is working, as that can help us find better solutions for you.
Our Psychiatric Medication Management Service
The Psychiatric Medication Management Service at IPS Clinic includes three psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have specialized knowledge about psychiatric medications, medication side effects, and how to help patients find the medication dosage that best manages their symptoms. Our team also includes advanced practice registered nurses, psychologists, and other mental health professionals who can help you develop strategies to take medications as prescribed by your doctor. Working together, our goal is to improve your quality of life.
Our Psychiatric Medication Management Service team will work carefully with you to ensure you receive the maximum benefit from your medication. This might include:
- Review of your current and past mental health problems
- Understanding your medical history
- Reviewing other medications that you are currently taking
- Prescribing a new medication
- Adjusting the dosage of an existing medication
- Learning about the side effects that you may be experiencing and adjusting the treatment plan accordingly
- Reviewing your understanding of the medications you are taking and whether you take them as prescribed
- Developing strategies to ensure good compliance with medication recommendations
Our Psychiatric Medication Management Service includes English- and Spanish-speaking clinicians. Please contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you or your loved one engage productively with treatment.