The Larson Mental Health team is made up of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners who are experts in psychopharmacology. We know the right medications to treat a variety of conditions, and how those medications are best integrated into an effective, holistic treatment plan for our patients in Boulder. Mental health is complex, and there’s no one-prescription-fits-all method for treating psychological conditions. That’s why it’s so important to work with an honest, understanding care provider who knows what they’re talking about, how to address your concerns, and how best to adapt your treatment overtime to minimize symptoms and side effects. Let’s look at three of the most prevalent mental health conditions we treat at Larson Mental Health, and what kinds of medications are often used in the treatment of those conditions.
ADHD
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is a condition characterized by an ongoing pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. Individuals with ADHD often find it challenging to focus, have difficulty organizing tasks, and may act without considering the consequences.
Stimulant medication such as methylphenidate and amphetamines are commonly prescribed and are effective for many patients. Non-stimulants such as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists provide an alternative to those who do not respond well to stimulants. These medication categories can be further divided into immediate-release and extended-release types. What is the right ADHD medication for you? That’s a decision that must be made in collaboration with an expert mental health provider after detailed consultation and evaluation.
Anxiety
Anxiety disorders involve more than temporary worry or fear. For individuals with an anxiety disorder, their anxiety does not go away and can worsen over time, interfering with daily activities such as job performance, schoolwork, and interpersonal relationships.
SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) are commonly used medication classes to treat anxiety disorders. Benzodiazepines are sometimes prescribed for short-term relief from severe symptoms. As with ADHD, whatever medication is best for you will depend on your individual circumstances. So, make sure your Boulder mental health provider takes the time to get to know you through detailed consultation before writing any prescription.
Depression
Depression is a serious mood disorder that affects how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. Symptoms include:
- persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
- loss of interest or pleasure in activities
- changes in appetite and sleep patterns
Commonly, SSRIs are prescribed to reduce depression symptom prevalence. SNRIs can also be effective in balancing brain chemistry and supporting a healthier balance of neurotransmitters in the brains of depressed individuals. When you work with Larson Mental Health, we’ll consider your family history, symptom severity, lifestyle impacts, and more to craft a detailed medication management plan just for you.
Struggling in Boulder? Mental Health Professionals Are Here to Help
Feeling overwhelmed by your mental health symptoms? Pharmeceutical intervention may be the best path forward. The conditions we listed in this overview are not the only conditions we can treat. Do you want to know if we can help you with our personalized medication management treatment programs? Contact us now. At our clinic in Boulder, mental health matters—and we're here to help.