As a medical doctor, a psychiatrist can fill many roles in a person’s mental health. Addiction is one of the areas this professional can focus on. If you feel as though your dependencies are ruining your life, get help now. By working with a psychiatrist, you can overcome even the most powerful addictions and find joy and relief once more.

Why people go to a psychiatrist for these issues

It can be challenging for a person to recognize they have an addiction problem. Many people deny it but then plead for relief. A psychiatrist has experience treating patients of all ages and backgrounds. These patients may face tremendous pain and suffering in trying to fight through the addictions. The doctor can use different coping and treatment strategies. A patient knows there is someone in their corner to be supportive through a difficult time.

What the doctor can diagnose and treat

An addiction psychiatrist commonly sees patients who struggle with behaviors such as alcoholism or eating disorders. This doctor will also work with people who have sleep disorders, mood disorders, or psychotic disorders. Each of these can lead to addictive behaviors. People with anxiety disorders such as phobias, panic disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder may also regularly see this doctor.

Signs that a person should meet with a psychiatrist

Some addictions may be visible and openly affect family members and co-workers. Others may be more difficult to detect. There are clues that can lead a person to know it is time to get help. A deep feeling of need to take a substance or being unable to stop are two common clues. Also, people who frequently lie or steal to obtain the substance or fulfill the activity should consider seeing a psychiatrist. Other signs include spending large amounts of money on items or devoting excessive amounts of time to addictive activities.

Medication for the addiction

In some cases, the psychiatrist may prescribe medication to help the person overcome the addiction. Doing so can help the patient achieve sobriety faster. Drugs such as antidepressants, hypnotics, antipsychotics, or mood stabilizers can be useful. The doctor will closely monitor the patients and adjust the medication as necessary.

Detox

Removing the addiction from the person in a controlled environment is a common treatment. This allows the psychiatrist to take over the therapy session. The doctor will also treat the patient for withdrawal symptoms. The detoxication period will vary from patient to patient.

Therapy

Sometimes, talking and sharing feelings can be effective in overcoming addiction. The psychiatrist may involve the patient’s spouse, partner, or family members. Doing so allows the patient and psychiatrist to discuss how impactful the addiction is. The doctor will counsel the patient to change behaviors and understand the importance of living without this need.

Benefits of addiction therapy

Seeing a psychiatrist for addiction therapy can help improve a patient’s outlook and health. It can also improve one’s quality of life. Having the motivation to stop the addiction is a huge decision. Below are the benefits of doing so:

It can identify the triggers. The psychiatrist can pinpoint the events that cause substance abuse. Talking about the triggers can help treat the troubling issues. Facing and learning how to overcome them can help end the addiction.
It can help start a daily routine. People with addictions do not have a healthy routine or stability. They often seek self-esteem by surrendering to addiction and self-destructive behaviors. A psychiatrist can teach the patient how to set a healthy routine and become active in becoming healthier.
It provides a healing environment. Each session exposes the patient to self-discovery and reflection. This allows the removal of stress, allowing the patient to focus better on healing and inner peace.
It promotes self-respect and health education. Learning to regain sobriety allows the patient to respect oneself again. Talking with the psychiatrist lets patients learn more about their issues.
It allows patients to interact with peers who are going through the same ordeal. This allows the individual to learn from other people with addictions and accompanying mental health issues. The bond the peer groups develop allows them to support each other through difficult days.
It reduces one’s risk for relapse. The psychiatrist can help the patient use sustainable methods to stay active during recovery. This can motivate the patient to keep improving even after the treatment.

Find the healing you need

If you are addicted to a substance or activity, you may feel lost. Fortunately, when you decide to get treatment from an addiction psychiatrist, you can conquer your addictions. Effective treatments are available. Find a doctor near you and call today. Make an appointment to get on the road to recovery.

Become a new patient today or give us a call: 631-673-3233.