When to see a psychiatrist
Signs that it may be time to seek help, common causes, and why early support matters.
It’s surprising how, after the pandemic, all of us agree that it is worth considering our mental health in the same way in which we regard our physical health.
The first step towards admitting your need for help is asking yourself, “should I consult a psychiatrist?” And that’s very brave. Twenty percent of Indian adults suffer from some kind of mental illness every year, and of these, one in twenty suffers from a severe mental disability.
It has become evident that we should start appreciating the significance of our psychological well-being. A psychiatrist may well be the first port of call if you have been thinking of seeking professional support.
How do I know if I need to see a psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist may be able to help you if you are dealing with severe or persistent emotional problems, behavioural issues, or signs of mental disorders including stress, anxiety, depression, mood swings, or hallucinations and delusions. They are able to evaluate your health, make a diagnosis, and suggest the best course of action for normalising your mental health.
Do I need a psychiatrist?
Remember, it is not a sign of weakness but a show of both strength and humility if you are willing to reach out for help. Continuing negative behaviours or thought patterns can be detrimental and have long-lasting consequences. Early intervention and a willingness to get a mental health professional’s guidance is the best thing you can do for yourself and your loved ones.
The following signs may indicate it is time to seek professional help:
- Difficulty regulating emotions or thought patterns
- Trouble controlling your emotions
- Unexplained or sudden health issues or physical illness
- Not performing efficiently or effectively at work or school
- Sudden changes in sleep patterns or appetite
- Excessive fears or extreme and constant worry
- Struggling to build and maintain relationships
- Unhealthy changes in sex drive or treatment of the opposite sex
- Engaging in risky behaviour
- Nightmares
- Detachment from reality, delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations
- A life-changing trauma (assault, car accident)
- Loss of interest in activities
- Increased self-isolation
- Grieving that immobilises for a long period
- Increased substance abuse to alleviate symptoms (drugs, alcohol)
- Having suicidal thoughts or self-harm
- Continuous or frequent anger (for periods longer than six months)
- Excessive worry and/or anxiety
- Threats to self or others
This list can help an individual make up their mind on whether or not to visit a psychiatrist or a mental health professional. Things might not always be as simple as that, though, and some life situations are hard to manage on your own. You should not feel ashamed if you are considering seeing a psychiatrist for any reason whatsoever.
Why should you visit a psychiatrist?
Most of the time you will need to look within yourself and make that assessment honestly. You should not attempt to self-diagnose a particular mental illness, but you can learn to recognise harmful emotions, thought patterns and behaviours.
Even recurring stress, depression, temporary episodes or mood swings can point towards bigger mental health issues that need prompt medical attention. It is normal for professionals to experience failures, losses, financial challenges and unsuccessful relationships during their lifetime. However, if your problem is starting to hinder your day-to-day functioning and affects how you relate with others, you might not be well.
How you manage these experiences, how you respond, and the ways in which you get through them are critical in judging whether a psychiatric intervention will help. If you are trying to figure out when to see a psychiatrist, it can help to look for episodes of mental health symptoms that have:
- A sudden onset
- A sharp rise in intensity
- And/or a short course
- Long-standing anxiety
- A pattern of interpersonal conflicts
- Avoidance of responsibility
While mental health episodes may occur from time to time, they are a warning signal that you need some assistance.
What are the common causes of mental illness?
- Genetics (hereditary)
- Environmental stressors
- Chemical imbalances inside the brain
- Untreated brain injury, brain tumour or encephalitis
- Alcohol and/or drug abuse
- Brain damage in the prenatal or fetal stage, or during birth
- Postpartum depression
- Poor nutrition
- Exposure to toxins
What are examples of acute mental health conditions that recur?
- Extreme anger
- Rage
- Debilitating anxiety
- Depression
- Eating or sleeping disorders
- Periods of intense sadness
- Suicidal thoughts, self-harm
Is it healthy to see a psychiatrist?
Yes. It is definitely a healthy sign to see a psychiatrist, since it means you are paying regular attention to your mental health and wellness. You can also approach a psychologist or therapist for your concerns. If you are searching for a psychiatrist in Delhi, Dr. Gorav Gupta consults in Sarvapriya Vihar and online.