Should You Continue Mental Health Treatment at the Same Clinic?

Is it advisable to transfer to a psychiatric department after counseling within the same clinic?

Hello, Doctor: Three years ago, I underwent about six counseling sessions.
At that time, I assessed my emotional state as stable and had no issues in my life, so I discontinued the counseling.
Currently, my depression and suicidal tendencies are more severe than before.
I find myself in a constant state of depression, experiencing significant mood swings, insomnia due to racing thoughts, loss of appetite, and isolating myself from social interactions.
The primary concern is financial, which is why I am considering treatment in psychiatry.
The causes of my depression are largely related to the topics discussed in my previous counseling, but external changes over the past few years have led to additional psychological issues that need to be addressed.
I would like to ask if you recommend continuing psychiatric treatment at the same clinic where I previously received counseling, or if, given the time that has passed, I should choose a closer clinic for convenience in treatment.
I apologize for the lengthy explanation of my situation, and I appreciate your assistance.

Wang Xinya, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/17

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry

It's important for patients to have access to nearby clinics for treatment.
Proximity to care is crucial.
- Dr.
Wu Enliang

Reply Date: 2022/11/17

More Info

When considering whether to continue mental health treatment at the same clinic or switch to a new one, there are several factors to take into account. Your situation, as you've described, involves a significant worsening of your mental health, including increased depression and suicidal thoughts, which necessitates careful consideration of your treatment options.

Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge that mental health conditions can fluctuate over time, and what may have been manageable in the past can become overwhelming due to various life stressors. The fact that you have previously engaged in therapy and found it beneficial suggests that you have a foundation of understanding about your mental health needs. However, the current severity of your symptoms indicates that you may require a more intensive or different approach to treatment.

Continuity of Care
One of the advantages of returning to the same clinic where you previously received therapy is the continuity of care. The therapists and psychiatrists there may already be familiar with your history, which can facilitate a more tailored treatment plan. They can build upon the work you’ve done in the past, and you won’t have to spend time re-explaining your background and previous treatment experiences. This familiarity can foster a sense of safety and trust, which is crucial in therapeutic settings.

New Perspectives
On the other hand, if a significant amount of time has passed since your last treatment, it might be beneficial to seek a fresh perspective. A new clinic or therapist may offer different therapeutic techniques or approaches that could resonate more with your current state. Sometimes, a change in environment or methodology can provide the breakthrough needed to address persistent issues. Additionally, if the previous clinic is not conveniently located, the added stress of travel could impact your willingness to attend sessions regularly.

Economic Considerations
You mentioned economic considerations as a factor in your decision-making process. It’s essential to weigh the costs of treatment against the potential benefits. If the previous clinic is more expensive or if there are financial constraints, seeking a more affordable option nearby could be a practical choice. Many clinics offer sliding scale fees based on income, and it’s worth inquiring about these options.

Seeking Psychiatric Support
Given the severity of your current symptoms, including suicidal thoughts and significant changes in appetite and sleep, it may be prudent to consider psychiatric support in addition to therapy. A psychiatrist can evaluate whether medication might be beneficial for you, especially if your depression is severe. If the previous clinic has a psychiatrist on staff, this could streamline your treatment process. If not, you may need to find a new clinic that offers both therapy and psychiatric services.

Conclusion
In conclusion, whether to continue treatment at the same clinic or seek a new one depends on several factors, including your comfort level with the previous providers, the severity of your current symptoms, economic considerations, and the availability of comprehensive care. If you feel that the previous clinic can provide the support you need and you have a good rapport with the staff, it may be worth returning. However, if you believe that a new environment or approach could better address your current challenges, don’t hesitate to explore other options.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to ensure that you are receiving the support you need to navigate this difficult time. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help, whether at your previous clinic or a new one, as taking that step is crucial for your mental health and well-being.

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