Medication Management

1. What role does medication play in treating behavioral health?

Medication plays a crucial role in your behavioral health treatment plan and is most effective when combined with therapy. Research suggests that some mental illnesses result from a partial “chemical imbalance” in your brain. That means that the level of neurotransmitters — chemicals that affect your behavior and mood— might be too low or too high.

The psychiatric medication targets specific chemical imbalances, significantly relieving or reducing your symptoms.

It’s important to understand that medication management doesn’t necessarily cure mental illness because various external and internal factors affect mental health besides chemical imbalance. Nevertheless, individuals can reap positive benefits from their treatment program with the help of medication and feel more capable of addressing those other factors that contribute to their mental health issues.

2. How many types of psychiatric medications are there?

The type of medication you get depends on your symptoms and condition. At Human Touch Behavioral Health, Dr. Trivedi may prescribe the following medications:

Antidepressants

Antidepressants treat certain anxiety disorders and depression. They can improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and help you feel like yourself.

Anti-anxiety medications

Certain classes of medications, such as beta blockers and benzodiazepines, can provide quick relief from the short-term effects of panic attacks and anxiety disorders. Thus, anti-anxiety medications can help improve your anxiety disorder.

Mood Stabilizers

Mood stabilizers commonly treat bipolar disorder. They help prevent extreme highs and lows of your mood, allowing you to manage your depressive and manic episodes effectively.

Stimulants

Stimulants help children and adults improve their concentration and focus. These are mainly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Do you think you are addicted to a substance? Contact Human Touch Behavioral Health today. Dr. Trivedi is a professional psychiatrist who will prescribe a medication to reduce your craving for opiates or alcohol, diminishing their overall effects on your mind.

3. How long does it take for the medication to work?

Psychiatric medications may take a few days to weeks to fully work, and it may also take this long to ensure that the medication is right for you. While this trial-and-error can be frustrating, especially if you experience side effects, find peace knowing that if one medicine doesn’t work for you, another will.

At Human Touch Behavioral Health, Dr. Trivedi might prescribe short-term treatment medications to help you get through a manic episode. You might also have to take certain medications for the rest of your life to treat more severe symptoms. Although the thought of taking medication for a lifetime might seem concerning, know that it can keep you feeling and functioning at your best.

Schedule an appointment at Human Touch Behavioral Health today for optimum medication management in Sacramento.