Most of us won’t hesitate to see a doctor if we think there might be some physical issue that needs attention. Yet when it comes to our mental health, we are often far more reticent to seek the help we need. But why delay speaking to a professional if you already feel that something is not quite right?

If you feel that you might benefit from a consultation with a mental health professional, you can quickly have your concerns addressed by allowing them to give you a proper evaluation. Read on to better understand if you could benefit from speaking to a private psychiatrist.

Psychiatrist or Psychologist?

Both psychologists and psychiatrists are professionals who are highly-trained in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of mental health issues. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have specialised in the field of mental health. They can prescribe the medicines used to treat mental health issues like ADHD, depression, bi-polar disorder, or eating disorders. Not everyone with these types of mental health issues will require medication but a psychiatrist is able to make that determination and prescribe medication when appropriate.

Very acute issues, where self-harm or harm to others is possible, should be evaluated by a psychiatrist. An appointment with a private psychiatrist in London ensures that mental health concerns are kept confidential while providing the necessary evaluation and treatment.

Psychologists are experts in mental health care and providing the appropriate therapies to help resolve issues. At The Chelsea Psychology Clinic, our psychologists are able to work closely with our psychiatrist to refer any individuals that need medical treatment in addition to talk therapy. By the same measure, often those receiving psychiatric treatment benefit from combining that treatment with sessions with a psychologist. This can help resolve underlying issues and minimise the need for medications, as well as improve the treatment outcomes as a whole.

You’re Not Overreacting

Usually the most significant barrier to seeking the help that’s needed is a reluctance to visit a mental health professional. Sadly, many people still feel there is a stigma around receiving mental health help. While that is changing, that can still make people delay getting the assistance they need.

Reluctance to admit that there is a problem is another factor. For example, parents may not want to acknowledge, even to themselves, that their child may need the aid of a psychiatrist. It can be easy to pretend either that serious problems don’t exist or that the warning signs are simply a phase in their child’s development. Yet, were the potential issue a physical one, they would likely seek professional help immediately.

Because denial is so common, it’s best to admit that if you have a feeling there is something wrong, you are probably correct. Even if your fears prove to be unfounded, a consultation with a psychiatrist can clear up any confusion and provide peace of mind.