How Psychiatry Helps Treat Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression are among the most common mental health conditions, yet they're also some of the most misunderstood. It can even be difficult to know where to get started when seeking help. Psychiatric treatment at SD Wellness Group may be the place to start. Offering personalized, accessible, and effective care, our services meet you where you are–whether you're just noticing symptoms or have been navigating a mental health disorder for years.

Here's how psychiatry may be able to help you find relief from anxiety and depression.

Understanding the Role of Psychiatry

Psychiatry is a specialized branch of medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. Treatment may include:

• Medication-assisted therapy (MAT)
• Talk therapy
• Lifestyle support

Our psychiatric providers bring both a compassionate approach and medical expertise to every session, taking the time to understand your symptoms and history. From there, our experts can recommend care that supports your long-term recovery.

Medication for Depression and Anxiety

For many, psychiatric medications are a vital part of treatment and overall well-being. From anti-anxiety medications to mood-stabilizing drugs, there are many different options available.

Should you be a good candidate for medication for depression or anxiety, our providers will introduce you to your options, monitor any side effects, and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

How to Reduce Anxiety With Psychiatric Care

Psychiatric care isn't just about medication. For those wondering how to deal with anxiety in ways that don't involve MAT, there are a variety of coping tools, lifestyle changes, and behavioral adjustments a psychiatrist can help you explore.

Here at our depression and anxiety treatment clinic in Southern California, we often incorporate:

Lifestyle Recommendations

Wondering how to reduce anxiety naturally? From nutrition and good sleep habits to mindfulness practices and exercise, there are several lifestyle changes you can make today that could significantly reduce your anxiety levels. Our psychiatrists provide guidance to help you establish new, healthy routines.

Cognitive, Behavioral, and Other Talk Therapy Techniques

Cognitive and behavioral therapy techniques help you reframe anxious thoughts and reduce avoidance behaviors. Through a structured approach to changing negative thought patterns, psychiatry has helped many regain control over their thought patterns and enjoy lifelong relief.

A Combination Approach

If you're dealing with severe symptoms, a combination of talk therapy and MAT may be the best approach for you. To learn more about the psychiatric and medication-assisted treatments, visit our patient portal and complete our initial intake forms. From there, we can get you scheduled for an evaluation.

Additional Treatment Options

In addition to the psychiatry services we offer for anxiety and depression, there are several other cutting-edge treatments you may benefit from, including:

• IV ketamine infusions: Performed at a provider in our network, we offer affordable, safe ketamine infusions for treatment-resistant depression. IV ketamine has offered new hope to many and is worth exploring if you've been let down by traditional depression treatments.
• SPRAVATO®: An FDA-approved esketamine nasal spray, SPRAVATO® has helped many break free from depression. What's more, many insurance companies cover this treatment, helping put recovery within reach.
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): TMS is an FDA-cleared treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain linked to mood regulation. It's a great non-invasive option for those looking for alternatives to medication.

When Should You Look for Psychiatric Support?

If you or a loved one is experiencing persistent:

• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Sleep disturbances
• Sadness
• Loss of interest in activities
• Difficulty functioning

It may be time to get support from a psychiatrist. And remember: early intervention could lead to a better outcome, so don't wait until your symptoms start to interfere with daily life.

Getting Compassionate Care Is Easier Than Ever

We make access to quality care as seamless as possible, from in-network coverage for most major insurance plans and same- or next-week appointments to in-person and virtual visits. Reach out to learn more about our psychiatric care and how it can help you break free from anxiety and depression.