Mental Health Specialist

What are mental health disorders?

Mental health disorders affect your thinking, mood, or behavior. They can occur because of genetic predisposition, traumatic life events, or chronic stress. Examples of common mental health disorders include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Attention deficit disorder (ADD)
• Eating disorders
• Schizophrenia
• Addictions

Mental health disorders can dramatically reduce your quality of life when left untreated. The Sherman Oaks Family Medicine, Inc. team can offer you symptom relief.

What are mental health disorder risk factors?

Anyone can experience a mental health disorder, but certain factors increase your risk. Some factors that increase your likelihood of developing a mental health disorder include your family history of mental illnesses, chronic stress, ongoing medical problems, brain damage, and past traumatic experiences. 

Using recreational drugs or alcohol, previous mental illnesses, having few friends, and a childhood history of neglect or abuse also increase your risk of developing mental health problems.

What are the symptoms of mental health disorders?

If you or a loved one have a mental health disorder, you might notice some of the following symptoms:

• Feeling sad most of the time
• Changes in sex drive or appetite
• Problems concentrating
• Excessive worry, fear, or guilt
• Suicidal thoughts
• Withdrawal from family and friends
• Extreme mood changes or anger
• Alcohol or drug misuse
• Problems relating to other people
• Fatigue and sleeping problems
• Inability to cope with stressful situations
• Paranoia, delusions, or hallucinations

You might also experience headaches, stomach issues, back pain, or other aches and pains. 

Possible complications associated with mental health disorders include self-harm, social isolation, relationship conflicts, problems at work or school, a weak immune system, and other physical health problems.

How does my provider diagnose mental health problems?

To determine if you have a mental health disorder, the Sherman Oaks Family Medicine team reviews your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. They complete a physical examination and psychiatric evaluation and might suggest lab tests to screen for thyroid problems, hormone imbalance, nutrient deficiencies, or other health issues.

What are mental health treatment options?

Depending on the type and severity of the mental health problem you experience, your provider might recommend one of the following treatments:

Lifestyle changes

Making lifestyle habit changes can lower your risk of some mental health disorders. Examples include getting regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, eating nutritious foods, using stress-relieving strategies, and seeing your doctor for routine medical care.

Medications

Taking certain medications can reduce symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other mental health problems.

Counseling

Seeing a qualified mental health care provider for counseling helps you learn coping strategies to better manage mental health challenges.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

TMS is a noninvasive procedure in which your doctor uses magnetic fields to stimulate brain nerve cells and reduce depression symptoms.

Don’t live with depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges when effective treatments are within reach. Schedule an appointment with Sherman Oaks Family Medicine, Inc. by calling the office or booking online today.