medication management
Brighter Days Mental Health Services (BDMHS) is a psychiatric practice located in Chester VA that specializes in medication management for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and schizophrenia. We also offer ADHD testing using the state of art QBtest, medical marijuana evaluations, and Spravato treatments. Medication management is a very vital part of a successful treatment plan for those who require mental health medication, because not all patients will tolerate medications in the same way. This is why monitoring medications, their side effects, and their possible interactions with other medications is critical, and is a big part of what we do here. Our mental well-being is directly connected to our overall physical health, stress, and trauma which can cause us to feel anxious, at times hopeless, and overwhelmed. Having these feelings go undiagnosed and untreated for long periods of time can cause serious psychological and physical illnesses. That’s why it’s important to have regular physicals from a primary care physician or practitioner, and regular mental health checkups as well. We are here to alleviate the problem of people having to go through life undiagnosed and untreated for their mental health issues. We currently have two Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners with extensive backgrounds in mental health that are currently accepting new patients.
what is medication management?
Medication management is the allocation and monitoring of medication for the purpose of relieving or stabilizing symptoms for certain conditions. Psychiatric medication management is the process of collaborating with a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, or a Psychiatrist to make sure that your psychiatric medications are safe and effective. This process may involve switching medications, changing doses, or adding new medications. It is very important to have consistent Psychiatric Medication Management appointments if you require medication because your mental health conditions may change over time. Medications that were once efficient may become less effective, or may cause new side effects over time.
when should i consider taking medication?
Mild mental health conditions can sometimes be treated without medication, while more severe conditions that impair daily functioning may be improved by adding medication into your treatment plan. If therapy isn’t giving you the results that you desire, consider why your current treatment plan isn’t as effective as it could be. Have you been using the behavior modifications that your therapist has recommended? Are you in agreement with your therapist about the changes that need to happen in your life? If the answer is yes and you are struggling with implementation, medication could be an effective addition to your treatment plan.
medication management at brighter days mental health services
Providers at Brighter Days Mental Health Services are here to assist you with keeping track of your mental health medications. We aim to ensure that you are prescribed the correct medication, with the correct dosages, at the best time of day depending on your specific mental health needs. To begin medication management at BDMHS you must first have an initial assessment with one of our prescribers. The assessment determines what medications (if any) are needed, or what adjustments need to be made (if any) to current psychiatric medication(s). There may be options for your condition the you haven’t explored so it is imperative that you establish a clear treatment goal, provide an in-depth medical history, and provide a list of current and past medications. Try to be specific as possible with treatment goals! Frequent visits with your provider is essential. There needs to be a clear communication of how your medications are working for you. Patients will sometimes discontinue their meds because their symptoms have improved, or they may mistake side effects for symptoms of their mental health issue. Please consult with your mental health provider before you discontinue your prescribed medication. If your medication is not effective, there may be a need for adjustment to your specific treatment plan. Its good to communicate with your loved ones or people that you live with about your mental health condition, medication, and possible side effects of your medication. Support from loved ones is always helpful. Make sure that your medications are stored in a safe place, and out of the reach of children.