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For people living with mood and anxiety disorders and others
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Many options exist in treatments for depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders and other mental health conditions. The more you know about your illness, the better you can make choices about your treatment. Follow these links to articles about finding the best treatment for you.

Working with a therapist can be very helpful in dealing both with emotions and coping with life stresses. There are many types of therapy, including behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy, group therapy and more. Read about how to find the right therapist for you. Support groups can provide information and support from . Alternative therapies, such as art therapy, acupuncture and yoga can be effective, especially in combination with medication and/or working with a therapist. Changes in diet and exercise can do a lot to reduce symptoms of psychiatric disorders. Even adding fish oil for its Omega 3 fatty acids can improve depression and anxiety as it provides important nutrients for your body.

People with moderate to severe psychiatric disorders most often benefit from medication therapy..

To help your doctor find the right medications for you, begin by telling your doctor about your medical history, other medications you are taking, and life plans such as planning to have a baby.

Your doctor will choose the medication he or she decides is best for your particular symptoms. The more you know about medications, the more input you can have in medications decisions. You will find reliable sources of information about medications on Mood's resource list. After taking the medication for a short time, you should tell the doctor about favorable results as well as side effects. Some medications have side effects, but many of these go away in a few days or weeks. If side effects become a problem, you will want to talk to your doctor abut switching. There is often an alternative medication.

Questions to ask your doctor about medications

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and professional organizations recommend that the patient or a family member ask the following questions when a medication is prescribed:

• What is the name of the medication, and what is it supposed to do?
• How and when do I take it, and when do I stop taking it?
• What foods, drinks, or other medications should I avoid while taking the prescribed medication?
• Should it be taken with food or on an empty stomach?
• Is it safe to drink alcohol while on this medication?
• What are the side effects, and what should I do if they occur?
• Is a Patient Package Insert for the medication available?

Source:
National Institute of Mental Health,
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

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