What a psychiatric evaluation may include
A prescriber may ask about symptoms, sleep, medical history, medications, substance use, family history, prior treatment, and safety. Depending on the situation, laboratory testing or coordination with primary care may also be considered.
Medication and therapy can be complementary
Some people use medication without therapy, therapy without medication, or both. The right combination depends on the condition, severity, preferences, medical history, and treatment response.
Questions to ask
- What are the expected benefits and common side effects?
- How long might it take to notice changes?
- What should I do if I miss a dose or want to stop?
- How will we monitor whether the medication is helping?
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Find a counselorAbout this guide: This page is educational and is not a diagnosis, treatment plan, or substitute for care from a qualified professional. If safety is an immediate concern, use the crisis resources on this site.