Being able to experience a sound mind is an essential part of maintaining a healthy mind and body, but far too many people are unable to get the treatment they need. The words “You Deserve Psychiatric Care – Even Without A Psychiatrist” confront the status quo in mental health care, arguing for a terrain that is less exclusive and easier to navigate. Mental health needs are acute and pervasive and alternate models of care should be adopted, so that no one is missed out simply because of system-wide issues such as workforce shortages, investment and geographical exclusion.
There is now evidence that non-psychiatrist-led interventions can deliver quality care for mental health. Natural helpers such as therapists, counselors, peer support specialists, and primary care providers can deliver effective treatment care for symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other common disorders, for example. Other digital platforms offering CBT modules and telehealth services have also shown promising results. These methods democratize the provision of psychiatric treatment, providing people with tools and expertise beyond the confines of the psychiatrist’s office.
Furthermore, it also endorses a patient-centered model that encourages team work, autonomous decision making and de-stresses patients approaching and consulting people with psychiatric problems. The recognition that psychiatric medication management is only a small part of total mental health care encourages a holistic approach that emphasizes psychotherapeutic interventions, positive lifestyle changes, social support systems, and community services. Therefore, absolutely everyone should have access to psychiatric, care even if it isn’t through a psychiatrist.
In summary, offering a definition of psychiatric care beyond that of treatment delivered by psychiatrists is key to addressing the overall spectrum of mental health needs. It is the same obsession, a multidisciplinary approach, which allows inclusivity of treatment quality also. In the end, the right to receive appropriate mental health care should not depend on shaking hands with the psychiatrist but on mechanisms that are accommodating to the circumstances of the individual.
We have skilled PMHNPs here at Arbor Wellness who are prepared to provide psychiatric evaluations, medications, and psychotherapies to serve you. We also accept most insurances to make your care more affordable. This way you can take the treatments you need without being overwhelmed by their high cost out of your pocket. If you have concerns about your coverage please contact our office and we will help you.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-psychotherapist
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-mental-health-is-so-important
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001939.htm
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mental-illness/in-depth/mental-health/art-20046477
https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/do-we-need-psychiatrists
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/friendships/art-20044860
https://mhanational.org/position-statements/rights-of-people-with-mental-health-and-substance-use-conditions/
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help
https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/mental-health-promoting-and-protecting-human-rights