When Everyday Stress Becomes Something More
Life is full of pressure and challenges; getting by is never easy. But when anxiety won’t shake, or leaving home seems scary or focus slips no matter what you try, it may be time to seek a psychiatrist’s help.
Dr. Timothy Jeider co-founded Psychiatry Connection, a telepsychiatry practice with multiple locations nationwide. He said psychiatrists, who as medical doctors can prescribe medications, are particularly equipped to help patients manage depression and anxiety linked to workplace or domestic stress.
“If it’s some sort of problem in your life that is keeping you from being successful,” Jeider said, “you can go in and talk to a psychiatrist and get a sense of what’s going on and what your options might be to do something about it.”
When Symptoms Point to More Than Stress
Beyond emotional regulation, Jeider said, psychiatrists treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, which can manifest in restlessness, trouble fulfilling daily responsibilities or difficulty controlling impulses.
ADHD Symptoms in Adults
Although many ADHD cases are diagnosed when people are children, some cases slip through and linger into adulthood. Age shouldn’t keep people from getting needed care, Jeider said.
“You’re having a harder time than your peers, your performance isn’t what it should be for where you’re at and your experience and the time you’ve put into it,” Jeider said. “If you’re finding that you’re not able to keep up and your ability to get the task done or manage all the tasks in your life is just, you’re just struggling every day, it’s a good time to start (care).”
When to Consider Professional Guidance
Jeider said good psychiatrists can act as coaches or coordinators, helping patients manage emotions, attention and organization. Lagging school or work performance can signal a need for treatment.
“You’re already pressing up against notable life consequences,” Jeider said. “Someone, a loved one or colleague, will say to you, “Hey, you never pay attention. I feel like you’re never here. Something’s not going right,’” Jeider said. “You should listen to that feedback and seek help.”
He added that seeing a psychiatrist is helpful to getting a good understanding of what’s going on and then also get some pointed direction on what next steps are best for you.
