A psychiatric disorder is characterized by dysfunctional thought patterns, moods, or behaviors that can be severe and persistent in nature. A psychiatric disorder doesn’t just dissipate; it needs proper intervention to be effectively managed, as it can greatly affect your quality of life and increase your risk of pain, disability, loss of freedom, or death.
If you are concerned that you may be living with a psychiatric disorder, you will benefit from the expertise of your local psychiatrist. But how do you know it’s time to seek psychiatric help? Let’s find out.
The Warning Signs
The following are telling signs that you may have a major psychiatric disorder and that it may be time to see your local psychiatrist for an evaluation:
- Alcohol or drug abuse to numb the pain
- Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
- Have overwhelming feelings of fear and anxiety
- Inability to function as you used to
- Low productivity in school and/or at work
- Obsessive thoughts and compulsions that interfere with daily life
- Rapid mood swings
- Thoughts of suicide
- Withdrawal from family and friends and social situations
Major Psychiatric Disorders
There are five major categories of psychiatric disorders, but the following are the most common. The signs mentioned above are ascribed to the psychiatric conditions listed below:
- Anxiety disorder is an umbrella term that encompasses several psychiatric disorders, such as specific phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder.
Anxiety disorder is typically characterized by excessive worry, nervousness, or fear. Anxiety disorders can cause you to become socially withdrawn, in anticipation of situations that may trigger or worsen your symptoms.
- Depressive disorder is a blanket term that encompasses major depressive disorder and mood disorder, such as bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is characterized by dramatic shifts in a person’s energy, mood, and ability to think clearly. People with bipolar disorder experience emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression) but may also have extended periods—sometimes, even years—without symptoms.
Depressive disorders are typically characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and loss of interest in things that once brought you joy. If you have a depressive disorder, you lack energy and have the tendency to detach yourself from your family, friends, and social circles. Depression can also cause you to have frequent thoughts of suicide.
Local Psychiatrist in New York and Connecticut
At Psy-Visions, we understand the challenges of living with a mental health condition. Dr. Mark Stracks, our board-certified psychiatrist, is well-liked by our patients not only for his expertise but also for his friendly and reassuring demeanor. He will treat you with utmost dignity, respect, and compassion, and provide you with comprehensive care to help you effectively manage your mental health condition.
If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment with Dr. Stracks, call our New York clinic at (718) 887-2918 or our Connecticut clinic at (203) 405-1745. You can also use our online appointment request form.
