What is a psychiatric evaluation and treatment?
A psychiatric evaluation is a health assessment used to diagnose mental health problems. This type of appointment involves several components, including answering questions verbally, undergoing a physical exam, and completing a written questionnaire.
These tools help the Compass Mental Health & Wellness team determine the type and severity of mental illness you’re experiencing. They also provide insights into your outlook and personality.
The team uses the information gathered during your evaluation to develop a custom psychiatric treatment plan.
What can I expect from psychiatric evaluation and treatment?
No two psychiatric evaluations are exactly alike. Compass Mental Health & Wellness tailors treatment to your unique health history and symptoms. Most psychiatric evaluations include:
Physical exam
Many physical ailments cause symptoms that mimic those of mental illness. For example, a hormone imbalance can result in mood swings, general irritability, and fatigue.
During this portion of your exam, let your provider know about any conditions you already have. You should also let them know about any prescription medications, vitamins, or supplements you regularly take.
Laboratory tests
Laboratory tests like blood work, urinalysis, or brain scans help your provider rule out underlying physical conditions. Your provider might also ask about your use of alcohol or recreational drugs. Your answers are entirely confidential, so make sure you’re open and honest.
Mental health history
During this part of a psychiatric evaluation, your provider asks how long you’ve experienced certain symptoms and about your family history of mental health. Your provider also asks you about previous psychiatric treatment.
Mental evaluation
During a mental evaluation, your provider asks questions about your symptoms in detail. This includes inquiries about your:
- Daily habits
- Sleep patterns
- Physical activity
- Existing physical conditions
- Current symptoms
The team at Compass Mental Health & Wellness doesn’t just view you as another patient, they consider you part of the team.
How is mental illness treated?
Compass Mental Health & Wellness takes a holistic approach to treatment. Instead of focusing care on an existing illness or pathology, the team uses an integrative program.
This usually includes a combination of healthy lifestyle changes like eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and stress management. If you have PTSD, depression, or bipolar disorder, you might also benefit from prescription medications and counseling.
Ultimately, the goal of psychiatric treatment is to ease uncomfortable symptoms, ensuring you can live a happy, healthy, and productive life.
To schedule psychiatric evaluation and treatment at Compass Mental Health & Wellness, call or book online today.
