When Should You See a Psychiatrist?
This is probably the single question that stops the most people from coming in—not "is treatment available," but "is what I'm going through serious enough." Here's a straightforward way to think about it.
Consider seeing a psychiatrist if:
Symptoms have lasted more than two weeks and are not lifting
Your functioning has slipped at work, in studies, at home, or with your children
Your sleep has changed markedly, in either direction
Your appetite or weight has changed without you intending it
You have physical symptoms—chest tightness, headaches, stomach problems, dizziness—that have been investigated and nothing was found
You are using cigarettes, sheesha, cannabis, alcohol or sedatives to get through the day
Your family has noticed changes that you haven't
Medication prescribed by a non-specialist hasn't worked, or has stopped working
You are having thoughts of harming yourself
You do not need to be at your worst to deserve help. You do not need a referral, a diagnosis, or the right words for what is happening. Most people who come to us say afterwards that they wish they had come sooner.
The hardest step is the first one. Most of our patients tell us afterwards that they waited too long. You do not need a referral, a diagnosis, or the right words. You only need to call.
0316-0101525 · Plot B-230, Block N, North Nazimabad, Karachi