Psychiatric Medication Management

Psychiatric medication management involves regular review of medications, their benefits, and their side effects. A medical provider who is licensed to manage psychiatric medications is also qualified to review psychiatric diagnoses. Medication management is often combined with therapy.

Are you trying to find psychiatric medication management? Perhaps you are trying to decide if medication is a treatment route you want to explore. Keep reading to find out more about psychiatric medication management and the role it plays in treating mental health concerns.

This Meraki Healthcare blog post will discuss the following:

• Psychiatric Medication Management Providers

• The Goals of Psychiatric Medication Management

• Psychiatric Medication Management and Therapy

• Psychiatric Medication Risks

• Frequently Asked Questions Related to Psychiatric Medication Management

Psychiatric Medication Management Providers

Psychiatric medication management providers include medical professionals who have received specialized training to diagnose and treat mental health concerns properly. These professionals include psychiatrists and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners. 

Primary care providers are an important part of your medical care team, and they can assist in diagnosing and managing medications for many mental health conditions. It is not uncommon or a bad idea to seek a second medical opinion about mental health diagnosis or recommended medications. 

Working with another provider who specializes in mental health conditions may help if you have questions or concerns about your diagnosis or medications.

Psychiatric Medication Management Goals

The goal of psychiatric medication management is to maximize the therapeutic benefits of medication and minimize negative side effects. There are many medications on the market for every mental health condition because different medications work for different people. 

Here are some reasons that psychiatric medication management is important:

• You may need to change doses to minimize side effects or get more therapeutic benefits.

• You may need to change medications if there are too many side effects or the medication is not benefitting you.

• You may need a qualified medical professional to review your mental health diagnosis and make sure it’s accurate, and your medications are appropriate for the diagnosis.

• You may need additional medications at times to manage your condition or any acute symptoms.

Psychiatric Medication Management vs. Therapy

You do not have to choose between psychiatric medication management and therapy. There are many benefits to using medications and seeking therapy at the same time. A good psychiatric medication management provider works with your entire care team to support your mental and emotional wellness.

A good mental health therapist will also support you if you decide to utilize medications during therapy. Avoid using therapists who shame or belittle your medical decisions and needs.

Psychiatric Medication Risks

Psychiatric medications have side effects and risks. The risks and benefits of any particular medication depend on the person, their other health conditions, medical and mental health history, and ability to metabolize specific medicines. Talk to your provider about concerns.

A competent and compassionate psychiatric medication management provider will discuss your diagnosis and the risks and benefits of any specific treatment. You will be able to decide if the risks outweigh the benefits after talking to your provider.

There are millions of people worldwide who safely take psychiatric medications to manage their mental health with the help of a qualified medical professional.

Ways to manage risks of psychiatric medications:

• If you are at risk of harming yourself or others, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

• Never take any prescription medication that is not prescribed to you.

• Do not stop taking any psychiatric medications without consulting your psychiatric mental health provider first.

• Consult your provider right away about side effects or concerns.

• Be open and honest about yourself and your history to receive the most accurate diagnosis. Remember that your provider is there to help you, not judge you.

• Update your mental health prescriber and pharmacist any time you add any other medications or supplements to your regimen. 

Finding Psychiatric Medication Management in Idaho

You can work with your health insurance or primary care provider to find a psychiatric medication management provider. If you live in Idaho, consider conveniently getting your medication management and therapy needs met through the same clinic at Meraki Healthcare.

Meraki Healthcare takes a holistic, trauma-informed approach to mental and emotional wellness. We offer medication management services, qualified therapists, and dietetics counseling to support your wellness goals.

Call (208)-643-5343 to schedule an appointment at Meraki Healthcare in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which mental health professionals have the ability to prescribe medications?

Psychiatrists and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners are mental health professionals with the training, qualifications, and licenses to prescribe medications for mental and emotional illness. 

What if I don’t want to use psychiatric medications?

Consult with your mental health providers about ways to manage your mental health condition without medication. Your psychiatric mental health providers are qualified to offer guidance regarding expectations for treatment based on your specific condition and situation.

Does medication management include getting a diagnosis?

Psychiatric medication management begins with diagnosing or reviewing the diagnosis before adding, changing, or removing medications from your treatment plan. Psychiatrists and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners are qualified to diagnose you properly. 

Do I still need antidepressants if I feel better?

Feeling better while taking antidepressants is a sign that your medication therapy is working. Do not stop any medications without consulting your prescriber first. Antidepressants can be safely used over very long periods of time when managed by your medical provider.