How to Know When Psychiatric Services Might Be Helpful for You

By Alli Matthews, PA-C, Wedgwood Physician Assistant

Maybe you or your child struggles with mental health. But how do you know if either of you could be a good fit for psychiatric services?

At Wedgwood Christian Services, a team of a medical doctor and physician assistant serve patients in an outpatient setting in Wedgwood’s Bouma Counseling Center. Here are 5 reasons that you or your child could benefit from our community psychiatric services:

1. You want more support for your mental health alongside counseling/therapy.

Holistic, evidence-based, and best-care practices, and psychiatric care working in tandem with counseling services as well, can mean individuals are more likely to gain true, long-term healing from mental illness.

2. Your mental health struggles are distressing to you or affect your ability to function in life.

If it feels like a struggle to get through each day because of your mental health, it is time to seek help. Mental health professionals aim to help you to reach the best possible quality of life through medical and therapeutical treatment.

3. You have been treated for your mental health by primary care but would like another opinion or more in-depth specialty care.

Psychiatric services can work alongside your primary care provider to give you the best possible outcome for your mental healthcare.

4. Your primary care provider, clinician/therapist, or someone else in your life has recommended that you seek psychiatric care.

Sometimes other people are better at seeing when we need help than we are at admitting it ourselves. Asking for help is a sign of strength and humility – not a sign of weakness.

5. You have tried multiple medications to treat your mental health without seeing much change.

We commonly see people who have tried a long list of psychiatric medications without much success. If this has happened to you, don’t lose hope! Genetic tests to help determine which medications would be less likely to cause side effects and how to adjust the dosing to best suit you.

This list can be used to help you determine whether you or your child should enroll in psychiatric services, but you don’t necessarily need to identify with these reasons to be seen.

Wedgwood Christian Services is here for anyone who is struggling with mental health, and can help determine the best course of treatment and support.

www.wedgwood.org/psych-services | 616.942.7294

 

 

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Expanding on the Importance of Psychiatric Services

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, influencing our ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. For some, mental health struggles can become overwhelming and interfere with daily life. This is where psychiatric services can play a vital role.

The Benefits of Comprehensive Care

At Wedgwood Christian Services, we believe in a holistic approach to mental health care. Combining psychiatric services with counseling and therapy offers a comprehensive treatment plan. This integrated approach ensures that all aspects of a person’s mental health are addressed, leading to more effective and lasting outcomes.

When to Consider Psychiatric Services

It’s important to recognize the signs that indicate the need for psychiatric services. If you or your child are experiencing any of the following, it may be time to seek professional help:

• Persistent sadness or anxiety
• Extreme mood changes
• Withdrawal from friends and activities
• Significant changes in eating or sleeping patterns
• Difficulty concentrating
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Early intervention is key to managing mental health conditions. The sooner you seek help, the better the chances of finding effective treatment and improving quality of life.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Every individual’s mental health journey is unique. At Wedgwood, our psychiatric services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each person. We offer personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Our goal is to provide the support and resources needed to achieve mental wellness.

Support for Families

Mental health struggles can also impact families. Wedgwood Christian Services offers support for families, helping them understand and cope with their loved one’s condition. Family involvement can play a significant role in the healing process, providing a network of support and encouragement.

Breaking the Stigma

One of the biggest barriers to seeking psychiatric services is the stigma associated with mental health issues. It’s important to break down these barriers and create an environment where people feel comfortable seeking help. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. By addressing mental health openly and without judgment, we can promote a culture of acceptance and support.

Getting Started with Wedgwood’s Psychiatric Services

If you believe that you or your child could benefit from psychiatric services, take the first step by reaching out to Wedgwood Christian Services. Our team of compassionate professionals is here to provide the care and support you need. Whether you’re looking for a second opinion, more specialized care, or a comprehensive treatment plan, we’re here to help.

Visit our website at www.wedgwood.org/psych-services or call us at 616.942.7294 to learn more about our psychiatric services and how we can assist you on your journey to mental wellness.