Psychiatry FAQ's
What is a psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. All psychiatrists have completed four years of medical school and at least four years of additional training in the specialty of psychiatry. They are able to prescribe psychiatric medications in addition to providing psychotherapy.
What is a "chemical imbalance"?
Chemical imbalance is a term used to describe the concept that mental illnesses result from deficiencies in certain brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Certain neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine are thought to play a role in regulating a person’s mood. Psychiatric medications serve to restore the body’s natural balance of these chemicals.
How long after beginning medication will I start to feel better?
Medications do take time to work. Most people notice some improvement in symptoms within 2-3 weeks, but the full response can take 4-6 weeks.
What are the most common side effects of medications for depression and anxiety?
Not everyone will have side effects, but the most common side effects of these medications include: headache, stomach upset (nausea/diarrhea), insomnia, feeling jittery, and sexual problems. Most of these side effects are temporary and will go away with time.
Will the medication change my personality or make me feel “numb?”
Medications do not change who you are as a person. Feeling numb would indicate an unusual side effect and the psychiatrist would make medication adjustments.
Can medication cause me to feel worse?
Any medication can have an undesirable effect, including worsening of your symptoms. This is rare and something to be discussed immediately with your doctor.
Is the medication addictive?
Most psychiatric medications, including those commonly treating depression and anxiety are not addicting. There are some medications used to treat anxiety, sleep, and ADHD which may be addictive and your doctor will discuss this with you in selecting your treatment.
What happens if I stop my medication?
Certain medications can have adverse effects if you stop them abruptly. Possible symptoms may include: dizziness, nausea, headaches, sweating, and insomnia. These symptoms can usually be avoided if you work with your doctor to discontinue the medications appropriately. Also, stopping your medication could lead to reemergence of your previous symptoms.
Will my psychiatric medication interact with other medications I’m taking?
Drug interactions can occur with any medication, so always let the psychiatrist know of any medication or herbal/nutritional supplements you are taking.
Will my psychiatric medication interfere with my birth control?
Certain psychiatric medications may interfere with the effectiveness of you birth control so it is important to discuss this with your doctor. Also, some medications may be harmful to the fetus if you are, or become, pregnant. It is important, if you are thinking of becoming pregnant, to discuss this with your doctor as well.
Will I need to take this medication for the rest of my life?
The need to continue psychiatric medications is determined on a person-to-person basis. It is based on several different factors such as the type of illness, severity of illness, family history, and any previous episodes. You will meet with your psychiatrist regularly to evaluate how the medication is helping you and to address any concerns you may have.