Mental HealthHouston, TX
When mental health problems such as anxiety and depression arise, we can provide a combination of therapy and medication to help treat a patient's condition. Although these issues can be difficult to discuss, they are more common than people realize. Mental health describes a state of psychological and emotional well-being, which includes an individual's choices, behaviors, relationships, and coping mechanisms.
Mental health treatment is available at Wholehealth PLLC in Houston and the surrounding area. Seeing a psychiatrist for mental health treatment involves a comprehensive evaluation that results in a customized treatment approach depending on the person's specific diagnosis. Often, treatment improves mood and functional ability and reduces emotional and behavioral symptoms.
For compassionate help with mental health struggles, call us at 832-831-3183.
Contributing Factors for Mental Illness
Mental disorders affect half of all Americans at some point in their lives, according to MedlinePlus. A variety of genetic, biological, and environmental factors contribute to each individual's mental health. Even though the exact causes of depression are unknown, there are common contributing factors, including:
- Issues with brain cell chemistry and function, such as low levels of chemicals called neurotransmitters that help regulate mood
- A family history of mental illness
- Previous brain damage or head trauma
- Long-term substance use
- History of emotional trauma such as early loss of a parent, abuse, or neglect
- Family dysfunction
- Personal circumstances such as struggles with work, school, or relationships
Signs of Common Mental Health Issues
Early signs of mental illnesses are not always easy to notice and can be a gradual shift. In many cases, warning signs will not be noticeable until they reach a more serious stage. Thus, it is essential to seek professional treatment if you begin to notice any of these signs:
- Difficulty with everyday tasks and routines, such as school, work, and household management
- Withdrawal from loved ones and activities the person once enjoyed
- Repetitive thoughts and memories
- Limited energy, fatigue, or insomnia
- Chronic feelings of sadness, anger, fear or despair
- Hearing voices or experiencing hallucinations
- Having thoughts of self-harm or harming others
- Uncontrolled substance use
While each mental illness is unique, and the level of symptoms can drastically vary per patient, seeking professional care can help to prevent the symptoms from worsening.
What To Expect When Seeking Treatment
When a person visits our psychiatrist for mental health treatment, the first step is a complete psychological evaluation. We will review the patient's medical history, current condition, physical health issues that may impact mental health, lifestyle, and any issues they are currently struggling with.
Questionnaires, surveys, checklists, and other diagnostic tools can give us a full picture of the person's mental health status to help us customize a treatment plan. These are some of the most common treatment modalities for depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns:
Psychotherapy
Sometimes called talk therapy, this involves patients exploring their thoughts, feelings, symptoms, experiences, and other contributing factors with a licensed therapist. Depending on the specific type of therapy, the therapist will help the person learn and practice coping mechanisms to deal with unwanted thoughts, feelings, and moods.
Psychiatric Medications
These include antidepressants, antianxiety medications, and other prescriptions designed to interact with brain chemistry to decrease symptoms of mental illness. Sometimes, an individual must try several types of drugs before finding a prescription that improves mental health with limited side effects.
Community Support Groups
A licensed therapist often leads these. At these sessions, the person can interact with others who have a similar concern and share coping mechanisms and experiences. Even if you feel hopeless, support is available.
If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues, call us at 832-831-3183 to schedule a psychiatric evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do when a loved one or I have suicidal thoughts?
Mental health conditions can sometimes lead to thoughts of suicide. Treat suicidal ideation as a medical emergency and call 911. In the U.S., individuals can call 1-800-273-TALK to reach a suicide hotline for assistance.
What if my mental health medication produces unwanted side effects?
Talk with your doctor if you are bothered by symptoms related to a psychiatric prescription. If you notice any health issues with the medication, we can alter the prescription or dosage. Never stop taking this type of medication abruptly, as dangerous side effects such as suicidal thoughts can arise.
How can I promote good mental health?
Social connections, healthy nutrition, a supportive network of family and friends, and a regular exercise regimen all contribute to good mental health. If you have a mental health issue, we can help create a customized treatment plan to meet your needs and lifestyle.
Do complementary therapies support mental health?
Complementary therapies such as natural supplements and aromatherapy are commonly used as an adjunct to mental health treatment by a psychiatrist. Many of these types of treatments have been shown to boost mood and promote relaxation. Common examples include yoga, meditation, exercise, and acupuncture. During a consultation with us, we can go over if these alternative methods can work in tandem with your treatment.
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