Are you struggling to control or moderate alcohol or substance usage or want to quit for good? You may also want to know what havoc addiction is playing in your body. You may also be struggling with mental issues and challenging times. It may be hard to quit substance abuse; also, mental issues can be debilitating, and finding the therapist for all these problems is the best thing you can do. Your Park Slope forensic and addiction psychiatrist, David Salvage, M.D., FAPM, is ready to help you with addiction and mental issues.

Why do I need an addiction psychiatrist?

When you want to deal with addiction, psychologists and substance abuse counselors are not the only people who come into play to assist in recovery; psychiatrists who are specialized in the examination and treatment of psychiatric issues will be on the team to help you solve your problems. Your psychiatrist will play a significant role in detoxification, which is the first step after successfully weaning off from the substance. The expertise of a psychiatrist will be of great help since these dangerous substances affect the neurotransmitters. When mental issues occur along with substance abuse, you will need a psychiatrist’s help, while at the same time you may be offered treatment and behavioral remedies.

What are the signs that I need to see a psychiatrist?

Mental illness and drug abuse can be worrying, and some might find it embarrassing to seek help.  If not treated, it can lead to various complications. The following are the signs that you need to see a psychiatrist:

  1. Persistent nightmares and temperament

Experiencing nightmares and difficulty in controlling temperaments indicates that you need to see a psychiatrist.

  1. Difficulty in controlling emotions

It is normal to have emotions such as sadness, anger, and irritability. However, when these emotions become excessive and can no longer be controlled, a psychiatrist needs to intervene.

    iii.            Sudden physical illness

An illness that occurs without a specific cause needs the intervention of a psychiatrist. Your mental health is connected with your physical health, and any disorder that occurs affects the whole body.

  1. Substance use

Usually, people who have mental issues go for substance use to cope with the situation. This becomes dangerous when you need the substance daily.

  1. Trouble with sleeping

The quality of sleep affects a person’s mental health. Mental problems interfere with the quality of sleep, and you may find it difficult to sleep, wake up too early or wake up several times at night. Lack of sleep can worsen mental illness; therefore, you need to see a psychiatrist.

  1. Lack of interest and or withdrawal from social activities

Most people who suffer from mental issues lose interest in associating with others, and they may withdraw. If you experience that you no longer want to associate with your friends, seek help from your doctor to identify the real problem.

Life challenges can force you to fall into mental issues and substance use. Please book an appointment with your doctor and talk to them about your issue.