Psychiatric Evaluation & Medication Management

What is a psychiatric evaluation?

A psychiatric evaluation may be necessary to diagnose any number of emotional, behavioral, or developmental disorders. An evaluation of an adult is made based on behaviors present and in relation to physical, genetic, environmental, social, cognitive (thinking), emotional, and educational components that may be affected as a result of the behaviors presented.

Who is evaluated?

Many times, families, spouses, or friends are the first to suspect that their loved one is challenged by feelings, behaviors, and/or environmental conditions that cause them to act disruptive, rebellious, or sad. This may include, but is not limited to, problems with relationships with friends and/or family members, work, school, sleeping, eating, substance abuse, emotional expression, development, coping, attentiveness, and responsiveness. It is important for families who suspect a problem in one, or more, of these areas to seek treatment as soon as possible. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation.

What is involved in a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation?

The following are the most common components of a comprehensive, diagnostic psychiatric evaluation. However, each evaluation is different, as is each individual's symptoms and behaviors are different. Evaluation may include or touch on the following:

  -  Description of behaviors present (i.e., when do the behaviors occur, how long does the behavior last, what  are the  conditions in which the behaviors most often occur)

  -  Description of symptoms noted (physical and psychiatric symptoms)

  -  Effects of behaviors/symptoms as related to the following: work performance, school performance, relationships and interactions with others (i.e., spouse, co-workers, family members, neighbors), family involvement, and activity involvement)

  -  Psychiatric interview

  -  Personal and family history of emotional, behavioral, or developmental disorders

  -  Complete medical history (including description of the individual's overall physical health, list of any other illnesses  or conditions present, and any treatments currently being administered)

  -  Laboratory tests (in some cases may be used to determine if an underlying medical condition is present), including the following: blood tests, urine drug screens, educational assessments, psychological assessments

When a family member is being evaluated:

It is natural, and quite common, for spouses and family members to question themselves when it becomes necessary for a loved one to be psychiatrically evaluated, and may have many questions and concerns as to his/her welfare and emotional well-being. Common questions frequently asked include the following:

Once a diagnosis is made, family involvement and active participation in treatment is extremely important for any individual with a mental health disorder. The physician will address questions and provide reassurance by working with you to establish long-term and short-term treatment goals for your loved one.

What are the symptoms of a personal problem in an adult?

The following are the most common symptoms of a potential emotional, behavioral, and/or developmental problem in an adult, which necessitates a psychiatric evaluation. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

  -  Significant decline in work performance, poor work attendance, and/or lack of productivity

  -  Social withdrawal from activities, friends, family

  -  Substance (alcohol and drugs) abuse

  -  Sleep disturbances (i.e., persistent nightmares, insomnia, hypersomnia, flashbacks)

  -  Depression (poor mood, negativity, mood swings)

  -  Appetite changes (i.e., significant weight gain or loss)

  -  Continuous or frequent aggression

  -  Continuous or frequent anger (for periods longer than six months)

  -  Excessive worry and/or anxiety

  -  Threats to self or others

  -  Thoughts of death

  -  Thoughts and/or talk of suicide

  -  Destructive behaviors (i.e., criminal activity, stealing)

  -  Sexually "acting out"

  -  Lying and/or cheating

  -  Many physical complaints, including being constantly tense and/or frequent aches and pains that cannot be traced to a physical cause or injury

  -  Sudden feelings of panic, dizziness, increased heartbeat

  -  Increased feelings of guilt, helplessness, and/or hopelessness

  -  Decreased energy

About Treatment with Psychiatric Medication

The factors that can affect how effectively medications will work include:

  -  Type of mental disorder, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia

  -  Age, sex, and body size

  -  Physical illnesses

  -  Habits like smoking and drinking

  -  Liver and kidney function

  -  Genetics

  -  Other medications and herbal/vitamin supplements

  -  Diet

  -  Whether medications are taken as prescribed.

The staff at Pacifica Care and Pacifica Care of Suncoast are available to monitor and assist patients to achieve optimum results with their medication plan.

Conditions with Medication Treatment Options

Schedule a consultation with Pacifica Care today for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.