As we begin a new year, prioritizing your health — physical and mental — is essential.
Mental health challenges like anxiety or depression affect countless individuals, yet many remain unsure of where to begin. Psychiatry can play a critical role in improving mental well-being.
Here’s what you need to know about psychiatry, how it differs from therapy, and how to take the first steps in addressing mental health concerns”
What is psychiatry?
Psychiatry focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health conditions through medication management.
At Finger Lakes Community Health, psychiatry is available to patients who receive primary care through our health centers. After discussing your concerns with a primary care provider, they can refer you to a psychiatric professional who will assess your symptoms and determine how medication may help.
Unlike therapy, which involves in-depth conversations over 45- to 60-minute sessions, psychiatry focuses on managing symptoms medically. Initial appointments are typically an hour to gather a detailed history, while follow-ups are around 30 minutes. These sessions evaluate how medications are working and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
When to consider it
If you’ve experienced ongoing symptoms like anxiety, depression, or sleep disturbances for several months or have tried therapy without relief, psychiatry may be a helpful next step.
Many patients worry about being on medications indefinitely, but this is not always the case. Some people only need medications for a few months, while others may benefit from longer-term use.
Your provider will monitor your progress to ensure your treatment evolves with your needs.
Psychiatry at FLCH
FLCH offers flexible options for psychiatry appointments, including in-person visits and telehealth consultations from any of our health centers. Psychiatry services begin at age 18, and patients can choose to see a psychiatrist, a therapist, or both.
In some cases, patients may work with external therapists while continuing medication management at FLCH.
The collaborative approach between psychiatry and primary care ensures comprehensive care. For more complex cases, such as chronic addiction or severe mental illnesses like schizophrenia, FLCH refers patients to specialized facilities.
Primary care
Primary care providers play a vital role in identifying and addressing mental health concerns. Medical issues, like thyroid disorders, can mimic mental health symptoms such as depression or anxiety. Starting with your primary care provider ensures underlying medical causes are ruled out before considering psychiatry.
FLCH psychiatrists collaborate closely with primary care teams to coordinate treatment, particularly for patients managing multiple conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or chronic pain. This teamwork ensures patients receive safe, effective care tailored to their overall health needs.
Tips for support
While medication can be effective, there are steps you can take to support your mental health:
• Sleep well: Stick to a consistent schedule.
• Eat healthy: Nutritious meals stabilize energy and mood.
• Exercise regularly: Even light activity reduces stress.
• Stay hydrated: Proper hydration supports overall well-being.
• Get outside: Fresh air and natural light improve mood.
• Be social: Connecting with others combats isolation.
• Do what you enjoy: Engaging in hobbies helps recharge.
Incorporating these habits can significantly boost your mental health and create a foundation for overall well-being.
Overcoming the stigma
Despite progress, many still hesitate to seek psychiatric care. Viewing mental health as equally important as physical health can help shift this perspective.
For instance, if lifestyle changes weren’t enough to manage high blood pressure, you’d likely consider medication. The same principle applies to mental health — if non-medical approaches aren’t enough, psychiatric care can make a difference.
At FLCH, seeking help is seen as a strength. Psychiatric appointments don’t come with a commitment to long-term treatment; even a single consultation can provide valuable insights and options.
Final thoughts
Mental health is a vital part of overall well-being. If you’re unsure whether psychiatric care is right for you, start by speaking with your primary care provider. Together, you can explore the best path forward.
