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Psychiatric Evaluation
in Hagerstown, MD

Psychiatric evaluation, or broad mental health assessment, usually refers to the whole gamut of evaluative processes conducted by experts to gauge the level of emotional, psychological, and behavioral well-being of individuals.

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The major objective for carrying out the psychiatric assessment is to take the required data regarding the status of a person's mental health, diagnose the psychiatric disorder, and decide upon the proper treatment plan.

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Purpose of a Psychiatric Evaluation

A psychiatric evaluation aims to:

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  • Assess a person’s mental health status

  • Rule out other physical conditions that might be causing the symptoms

  • Diagnose a mental disorder and confirm if the individual needs psychiatric treatment

  • Develop a treatment plan for a mental disorder

  • Make changes in the previous treatment plan (in case of past evaluations)

  • Identify long-term problems that might emerge in the future

  • Determine whether a person is competent to make decisions about their care

  • Assess a person’s risk of harm to themselves or others

  • Provide expert testimony in a legal matter

Preparing for a Psychiatric Evaluation

Before visiting a psychiatrist, patients should prepare a list of things to ask, including:

  • Is it normal to feel the way I do?

  • Do I have a mental health disorder?

  • How much does the treatment cost?

  • How long will the treatment last?

  • What are my treatment options?

  • What are my treatment options?

  • What factors can trigger my illness?

  • Will my children have a similar illness in the future?

Questions and Answers to Bring in Preparation

Moreover, it’s helpful to answer the following questions in writing and bring them to the evaluation:

  • What are my symptoms? How long do they last?

  • What do I do to control the symptoms?

  • How do I feel, think, and behave?

  • Did the symptoms appear after a major life event, such as the death of a loved one?
     

It is best to start writing the answers at least one week before the appointment. A patient may take a friend or family member with them.


Patients who take any medications or supplements should inform their doctors. Some drugs (prescription or OTC) can change how people think and behave.

Importance of Psychiatric Evaluations in Mental Health Treatment 

Getting a psychiatric evaluation is a game-changer in mental health care. Here's why:
 

  1. Spot-on Diagnosis: These evaluations dig deep to pin down the exact mental health issue. Knowing precisely what's up means more targeted and effective treatment.
     

  2. Tailored Care Plans: Once the evaluation is done, doctors can sketch out a plan just for you. It might be meds, talk therapy, or a mix of both.
     

  3. Catching it Early: Recognizing mental health signs early on can make a big difference. Early checks can stop things from getting worse and set you on a quicker path to feeling better.
     

  4. Clearing the Confusion: Some mental health problems can look a lot alike. Evaluations help doctors tell them apart and treat them right.
     

  5. Keeping Track: These checks aren't a one-time thing. By revisiting them, doctors can see how you're doing and tweak your care plan if needed.

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  • What is a psychiatric evaluation?
    A psychiatric evaluation is a comprehensive assessment performed by a mental health professional to understand an individual's emotional, psychological, and behavioral state. It's designed to diagnose possible mental health conditions and determine the best course of treatment.
  • How is a psychiatric evaluation conducted?
    The evaluation often involves a combination of interviews, questionnaires, and possibly standardized tests. The professional will explore the individual's personal history, current symptoms, family background, and other relevant life events. Input from other healthcare providers, family, or caregivers might also be considered.
  • Why might someone need a psychiatric evaluation?
    People might be referred for a psychiatric evaluation if they exhibit symptoms of a mental health disorder, have difficulty coping with daily life, experience significant changes in behavior, or if there are concerns about their mental well-being. It's a proactive step towards understanding one's mental health and seeking appropriate care.
  • Is the information shared during an evaluation confidential?
    Yes, information shared during a psychiatric evaluation is confidential. Mental health professionals are bound by strict privacy laws and ethical standards. Any disclosure of personal information requires the individual's consent unless there's a risk of harm to oneself or others.

Contact Us

Address

1140 Opal Ct

Hagerstown, MD 21740

Contact

Phone: 301-684-5773

Opening Hours

Mon - Fri

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Sat - Sun

Closed

Fax:  301-841-8135

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