When To See a Psychiatrist
“I’m feeling really off lately,” you think as you plop down onto your couch, deciding to binge Netflix for the entirety of the night.
Instead of laughing at David Rose’s self-deprecating humor like you usually do, you notice a distinct difference within yourself. You’re feeling numb, and you’re realizing that you’ve actually been feeling this way for a while now.
Your phone is vibrating with calls and messages, yet you don’t have the energy to pick up. You’re chalking it up to a bad day at work, but if you’re being completely honest with yourself — it’s been a bad couple of months, at the minimum.
We hear you. The pandemic has had a negative impact on all of our lives — from social anxiety and news overload to feeling unsure about how to move forward with normal life.
But how do we know when it’s time to seek help for this looming, altogether overwhelming feeling? Here are a few questions to consider as you think through your mental state:
How long have you truly been feeling off/not yourself/disconnected?
What, if anything, have you tried to do about it already?
Have you reached out to a counselor or therapist?
Disrupting the pattern and connecting with a licensed mental health professional can be extremely helpful. However, there also comes a time when medication could be necessary. The following signs may indicate the need for a psychiatrist:
Having suicidal thoughts or engaging in self-harm
Detachment from reality, including having delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations
Inability to control your emotions when you once were able to
Excessive fears and constant worry
Sudden changes in sleep patterns
Substance use as a regular means of coping for everyday life
Engaging in risky behavior
Unexplained or sudden health issues
Changes in performance at school or work
Increased self-isolation and struggling to maintain relationships
Loss of interest in activities that were once pleasing
If any of these signs resonate with you, know that you are not alone. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness. If you’re realizing you might benefit from a psychiatrist, we’ve got you. Following are some steps you can take to be on your way to greater mental wellness.
How can I find a psychiatrist near me that takes my insurance?
Firstly, ask your therapist. We would love to provide you with recommendations.
If you’re comfortable, ask friends and/or family members for a recommendation.
Search Zocdoc. You can filter your search to find psychiatrists near you who take your insurance and specialize in what you need.
Search Psychology Today. Under the “Find a Therapist” section, filter your search to psychiatrists. Note: You will see that you can also filter for treatment centers and support groups, which could also be helpful to you on your mental health journey.