Psychopharmacology
Treating mental health and addiction is a complex process. Everybody is different. Brain chemistry, personal experiences, and family history often play a role in a person’s mental health.
While there are plenty of evidence-based treatments for mental disorders, there aren’t any “magic bullets” for addressing these conditions.
Medications can be very helpful for addressing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, addiction, and other mental disorders. A deep understanding of a patient’s biology and how medications affect individuals gives a psychiatrist opportunities to provide the most appropriate prescriptions.
So how does a doctor or psychiatrist know what may work best for you? Staying current on the advances of medication--otherwise known as psychopharmacology.
What is Psychopharmacology?
It’s a huge word that doesn’t come up much in everyday conversations. Psychopharmacology, however, can be the difference between continuing to deal with debilitating symptoms and restoring balance to your life.
In a nutshell, psychopharmacology is the study of using medications to treat mental disorders. Psychiatrists need an intimate understanding of how psychotropic medications work and affect behavior. This includes how long the medication stays in the body, how they interact with other medications, and how they affect a person’s specific biology.
It’s no easy task. After all, medical advances continuously evolve. But, those dedicated to keeping current on psychopharmacology have the ability to assess a patient and prescribe the most appropriate medication to help improve the quality of life.
Why is Psychopharmacology Important?
Research has shown many people struggling with mental health conditions significantly benefit from the combination of medications and psychotherapy. When the most appropriate medication(s) are prescribed, individuals experience less troublesome symptoms so they can work towards personal changes with the help of psychotherapy.
Sometimes psychiatric medications can be used short-term to relieve symptoms. For others, these medications may be beneficial for longer periods of time to help restore balance to brain chemistry contributing to mental health conditions.
Those prescribed psychiatric medications need to be monitored by a psychiatrist well-versed in psychopharmacology. Medications affect everyone differently. Finding the most effective medications requires a strategy tailored to the individual.
Ready to Restore Balance to Your Life?
Struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, or other mental health conditions? Have you tried getting treatment but felt disappointed with the results?
The Moment approaches mental health treatment differently. We are a physician-owned and managed wellness community passionate about behavioral health. Once you step into our office, you know it is not “business as usual.” We created a relaxing, comfortable environment designed for healing and change.
Our double board-certified psychiatrist specializes in psychopharmacology and proven holistic approaches. We get to know you and work with you to find the treatments that resonate best with your mind and body.
Let’s get started by learning more about what you are going through. Call us at (424) 532-1552 or book an appointment.