Everyone encounters difficulties, and mood changes are a normal part of life. However, when your emotions seem to get in the way of your normal daily routines or you notice substantial shifts in your mood, it may be time to seek treatment. Some signs that indicate a mental health disorder include:

• Poor or irregular sleep patterns
• Changes to eating habits
• Feeling numb or disconnected
• Turning to drugs, alcohol, or habits like smoking to avoid negative thoughts or feelings
• Severe mood swings that affect your relationships
• Pulling away from the people or activities you usually enjoy
• Unexplained aches and pains
• Thoughts of self-harm

Nearly one out of every five American adults experiences a mental health disorder each year. Additionally, just over half of adults with a substance abuse problem also have some form of mental illness.

Most mental health disorders can be treated with either medication, talk therapy, or a combination of these two treatments. At Meridian Advanced Psychiatry, MAP, we specialize in treatments focused on medications but also provide talk therapy when appropriate and may refer you to one of our community partners if more intensive talk therapy is required or desired. We can also review the evidence surrounding alternative and complementary treatment options such as herbal supplements. Your first step is contacting our office for a new patient evaluation, where our providers will not attempt to sell you on or force you to any one treatment.

Hence, you can think of your first appointment as an education on your diagnosis and the most up-to-date evidence-based treatment options. Our goal is to help you, even if it means referring you to someone else.