How to Detect a Chemical Imbalance
There are several methods you can use to try to detect a chemical imbalance in yourself or someone you know; however, detecting chemical imbalances is difficult, there is no exact science or test that guides mental health professionals in how to do so.
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Things You'll Need
- Computer with Internet connection
- Counseling appointment
- Psychiatric appointment
Instructions
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Take a self-evaluation. You can use this evaluation to determine whether symptoms of a chemical imbalance are present. You can access these tests online at websites such as http://www.webmd.com/depression/tc/interactive-tool-are-you-depressed-what-does-this-tool-measure.
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Find a counselor, psychologist or therapist. Use Internet search engines such as http://therapists.psychologytoday.com/rms/, use the phone book, or refer to your health insurance company for references to effective counselors. These professionals are also instrumental if you need a referral to be eligible for a psychiatrist appointment.
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Make an appointment with a psychiatrist. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication, while counselors, therapists and psychologists, unless they have their medical degree, cannot. You can find a psychiatrist online on search engines such as http://www.wellness.com/find/psychiatrist, through the phone book and by referring to your health insurance company or counselor, therapist or psychologist for a reference.
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Tips & Warnings
The self-evaluations are not the same as appointments with educated and licensed physicians, so whatever the results, you may want to seek medical attention if you are feeling any symptoms of depression.
