Telemedicine is a cost-effective therapeutic tool that can be used to treat a number of mental health conditions. It also provides easy access to care for anyone concerned about having to regularly make it into a healthcare provider’s office in person. The privacy of telemedicine – virtual video conferencing that allows you to remain at home or anywhere you prefer – is another huge reason to use it for mental healthcare.
Studies back up these benefits. Patients using telemedicine for their mental healthcare are less likely to miss appointments or go untreated. Overall, it’s the convenience of telemedicine that makes it especially helpful for those seeking mental healthcare.
Virtual Care for Mental Health
Telemedicine visits with your healthcare provider for mental health condition can accomplish a lot.
You can discuss your symptoms with Family Nurse Practitioner, Sharon Zell, during your computer-based visit, just as you might during an in-person visit. Your provider can prescribe necessary medications – and can walk you through nondrug alternatives to self-care, including grounding exercises and the need for certain lifestyle choices, like getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and regular exercise. In some cases, additional therapies may be recommended, such as meditation, massage, yoga, acupuncture, and more.
Family Nurse Practitioner, Sharon Zell, at Show Low Family Clinic most commonly treats patients for mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and panic disorders. Please note that at Show Low Family Clinic, we do NOT prescribe controlled substances, such as opioids, stimulants, etc.
Anxiety / Stress
Anxiety disorders are extremely common – and entirely treatable.
For many people, anxiety is a normal reaction to stress. For some, however, the anxious response is disproportionate to the trigger. Most of us are under stress on a regular basis, but it’s how we’re able to deal with the stressors in our life that can determine how healthy we are, both physically and mentally. Appropriate mental health treatment for anxiety disorders can help restore your quality of life so you can thrive.
Examples of anxiety disorders that can be treated using telemedicine include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Phobias
- Panic disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Separation anxiety disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
Depression
Depression is a mental health condition that can negatively impact how you feel, think, and behave. It is both common and serious. There is no single cause for it, but the combination of medication and therapy have been found to be effective for most people suffering from depression. There are many types of antidepressants available, with a variety of possible side effects. Our healthcare provider can help determine which type might be best for you – and then continue to monitor its effects over time to make sure you continue to respond well to it.
Panic Disorder
A panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder – but it’s really in a class of its own. That’s because most anxiety disorders have obvious triggers, while a panic disorder does not. A person suffering from a panic disorder will have repeat panic attacks, which occur suddenly and unexpectedly. The signs and symptoms of a panic attack are real and can be quite intense and scary: chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, stomachache, chills, and more.
The good news is that a panic disorder is treatable, most often with a combination of medication and therapy. Your healthcare provider can help you identify the treatment type and combination that’s right for you.
Confidential Online Mental Healthcare
Would you like a private, convenient, and cost-effective method of treating a mental health issue? Telemedicine can work wonders. At Show Low Family Clinic, we treat patients with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and panic disorders. Request an appointment now to schedule your telehealth visit with us. Our telemedicine services are available to patients in numerous states throughout the country.
*Show Low Family Clinic should not be used for emergency situations including, but not limited to, trouble breathing and severe chest pain, drug or alcohol overdose, severe bleeding, severe injuries, or for those having suicidal thoughts. For these situations or anyone needing immediate in-person evaluation or treatment, call 911 immediately or go to your nearest emergency room or hospital facility.
