With so many demands on our time from work, school, family and other factors, individuals of all ages are experiencing stress and anxiety. Some of the most common causes of stress include:
Further, the National Institute of Mental Health reports, “anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older, or 18% of the population.”6
More and more studies continue to show a relationship between mental and physical health, with increases in heart-related conditions, and obesity and sleep disorders.
Taking Charge of your Mental Health
In our 24/7 world, it’s become even more difficult to schedule health-related appointments during the day and evening.
Many people do not have the access and opportunity to consult with a psychologist or licensed therapist for a variety of reasons. Some people don’t have the time or live in a location where there are psychologists or therapists are available. For others, they may be nearby but getting an appointment can take weeks or even months.
It’s in these situations that online psychology visits, such as those offered through LiveHealth Online, can help connect someone with a qualified psychologist or therapist without having to leave the comfort of their home. The visits can be arranged to take place from a location and time that is convenient for them. You can schedule an appointment and see a therapist in 4 days or less.
Online mental health visits using LiveHealth Online Psychology connect patients face to face with a psychologist or licensed therapist through a two-way video chat on your smartphone, tablet or PC.
It’s convenient, private and flexible. You can speak with a therapist or psychologist during the daytime, evening or even weekends.
Once you make an appointment, you will be able to arrange a time to speak with a psychologist online, and you can make appointments with the same therapist for future visits. Response time to a psychological consultation request is within four days or less.
Once you do find a psychologist, remember that this will be a learning experience. As with most things that involve interacting with others, initially there is a period during which trust needs to be established. Working with a psychologist is no different. Give a reasonable effort to try and feel comfortable with the psychologist you’re talking with.
If you feel it’s not really working for you, or perhaps you would prefer a psychologist who is better suited to your personality or beliefs, do not be afraid to look for someone else with whom really connect.
Once you do find a psychologist or therapist to help you, what should you expect?
1) Medical History.
In order to provide quality service the psychologist will ask questions about family medical history, including any known diseases you have, symptoms you have experienced, medical and environmental allergies, and current medications and/or supplements.
The psychologist or therapist will also ask about any medical or psychiatric history within your immediate family, as well as the reason for your call. He or she may ask questions about your diet and any known sensitivities.
This information is necessary to help them understand all the variables that could be contributing to your situation. This is especially important during your first meeting.
2) Privacy Policy.
The psychologist or therapist should be able to give you privacy documentation via email and verbally regarding how he or she will handle and use the personal information you provide.
This will include your name, address, personal medical history, and details you provide about your family. There are stringent privacy protection laws governing what medical professionals do with such information.
3) Therapists May Not Prescribe Medication.
The psychologist or therapist you see using LiveHealth Online cannot prescribe prescriptions.
To use LiveHealth Online, simply sign up, then select LiveHealth Online Psychology to schedule an appointment.
Reviewed August 23, 2016
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith
This post was sponsored by: LiveHealth® Online