When it comes to mental disorders, people tend to hide them or do not seek professional help in fear of what families or friends will think about this illness. Many people live in the misconception that mental disorders are equal to calling someone mad in medical terms.
However, this statement is invalid. Around 50% percent of the world population suffers from different mental conditions such as stress, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Many people among the 50% are unaware that they have mental conditions, while in others, it is evident that they are suffering from mental illnesses.
When do you need to see a psychiatrist?
You need to be aware that psychiatrists usually provide pharmaceutical drugs to cure or improve mental disorders. Psychiatrists are not psychologists. Psychologists are doctors who will listen and advise you on how to enhance or balance mental illnesses without prescribing medications.
People who have not been able to find remedies with psychologists fluctuate to a psychiatrist. You will need a psychiatrist to help you. Moreover, if the below symptoms occur, it is advisable to visit a psychiatrist immediately.
Symptoms you should not ignore.
Changes in sleeping patterns
You immediately need to visit a psychiatrist if you are experiencing changes in your sleeping patterns, such as oversleeping, sleep-deprived, or becoming an insomniac. Many mental illnesses can cause changes in your sleeping patterns, such as bipolar disorder or depression.
Constant mood swings
Mood swings are mostly taken for granted, but they can be a severe issue, mainly sadness, anger and irritability, and violence. Experiencing these mood swings may be a sign of depression or sadness, especially if a person encounters sudden mood changes.
Hallucinations
Schizophrenia is a mental disorder whereby people cannot differentiate between what is real and what is unreal. Making hallucinations such as hearing or seeing things that do not genuinely exist is a severe issue as it can significantly affect the schizophrenic’s life.
Suicidal thoughts
If you observe you are having suicidal thoughts at any moment, you immediately need to seek professional help or talk to someone with whom you feel comfortable. Suicidal thoughts can occur due to severe depression or profound trauma. However, suicide is not a solution, and suicidal thoughts are easily curable.
Lost of interest in daily activities
Each person has at least one hobby or passion that the latter likes to practice frequently. But if the same person goes through a phase where they do not show any interest anymore, it is alarming, especially when the same passion and hobby do not bring joy. A decline in sexual desire is another sign of depression and anxiety.
Chronic and unexplainable pain
It may happen that doctors cannot diagnose any health problems, but you are still feeling pain. Mental disorders can lead to chronic and unexplainable pain, especially abdominal pain. These pains can be due to mental stress, anxiety, or depression-related causes.
Final Thoughts
Conclusively, it is highly crucial to visit a psychiatrist if you experience any of the above symptoms. A doctor will diagnose the precise mental disorder and will treat you accordingly. Remember, mental illnesses are health conditions that no one should be ashamed to share with others. The earlier you seek help, the earlier you will feel better.
