Why are Therapists Called Shrinks?

Feeling overwhelmed while trying to manage your mental health is something you should not take lightly. Whether it is managing daily life functioning, everyday stress, handling marital troubles, or phobias and harmful habits, no problem is too small and needs professional assistance. Therapy helps you learn what you are feeling, why you might be feeling so, and how to cope with your mental health or emotional concerns. Call Online Psychiatrists to schedule an appointment with Dr. Zlatin Ivanov for specialized mental health services. He uses a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes to empower you to deal with whatever you are going through to improve your well-being and set you on the road to recovery.

The word ‘shrink’ comes from the Latin verb scrinare, which means to look into. The idea of looking into something is related to the act of therapy. Looking into someone’s psyche and understanding what makes it work the way it does is the main task of a mental health professional. Hence, the word shrink can refer to a mental health professional who helps deal with various conditions and behaviors linked to mental health.

While it can be difficult and overwhelming to seek help for mental health conditions, it is essential to do so. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and seeking assistance for mental health conditions is necessary for overall well-being.

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 Why Are Mental Health Professionals Called Shrinks?

Shrink is a popular slang term that refers to mental health professionals, including therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists. It comes from “head shrinkage,” which refers to the ancient practice of shrinking the head of a conquered enemy. This term is outdated now as it belonged to an era in which seeking mental health treatment was considered a source of shame or a sign of weakness.

Even though the stigma surrounding mental health has not disappeared completely, getting treatment is far more widely accepted and encouraged than it was when this term was commonly used. Trained and licensed professionals can provide an accurate diagnosis and suggest treatment plans. They are experts in their field and have up-to-date knowledge on research, medications, and other treatment therapies that can help you.

Different Types of Mental Health Professionals

Different types of mental health providers are trained in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating mental health problems. If you search for a therapist, you will come across the following titles:

•  Psychologist – A psychologist holds a doctoral degree in psychology. Counseling and clinical psychologists are trained professionals who make mental health diagnoses and offer psychotherapy services.
•  Psychiatrist – A psychiatrist is a medical doctor with special training in brain structure and diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses. Psychiatrists recommend medication and also counsel their patients when needed. Some psychiatrists also get additional training in a specialist field, such as children’s behavior.
•  Social worker – A master’s degree in social work is required to become a social worker. In addition to this, social workers are qualified to evaluate, diagnose, and treat mental illness. They also provide case management and advocacy services as needed.
•  Counselor – Counselors hold a master’s degree in psychology or a related field and undergo several years of clinical experience before they can work as mental health counselors. They are licensed professionals trained to evaluate, diagnose and treat mental health conditions.

No matter what you call them, therapists help people struggling with emotional difficulties, life challenges, and mental health concerns.

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Common Mental Health Conditions Treated by Therapists

Many different conditions are identified as mental illnesses with their unique diagnostic criteria. Therapists are licensed and qualified professionals who work with people experiencing mental health symptoms and offer support and guidance to cope with them.

 Some of the mental health conditions therapies address include:

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder treatment (ADHD)
• Anxiety disorders
• Bipolar disorder
• Borderline personality disorder
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Schizophrenia
• Substance use disorders

Remember, not all brain diseases are considered mental illnesses. Disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy affect the brain structure and neurons, but they are categorized as neurological diseases rather than mental illnesses. Research has revealed that mental illness is associated with changes in brain structure, chemistry, and function.

Is Therapy the Right Option for You?

Therapy plays a significant role in improving symptoms of many mental health conditions. People can learn to cope with symptoms that may not respond to treatment right away.

 You can benefit from therapy in the following circumstances:

• You want to improve your relationships with family members, friends, and colleagues
• You are feeling confused, overwhelmed, and frustrated and want to get rid of these discomforting feelings
• You are having a hard time moving forward or feel stuck at crossroads
• You are facing challenging situations or going through a tough time in life
• You are overreacting to situations that feel small or have trouble controlling your emotions

Research shows that the benefits of therapy last longer than medicine alone. Therapists teach people skills to address many symptoms on their own.

Finding the Best Therapist for Your Needs

Mental health episodes may happen randomly, infrequently, or may be constant. The significant thing to remember is that if they are disrupting your life, it is a clear sign you need professional help.

Many people experiencing mental health symptoms face hurdles in accessing mental health treatment. Lack of knowledge about mental healthcare combined with socioeconomic status and stigmatized beliefs surrounding mental health in different ethnic groups makes it difficult for people to get the best support and guidance they need. But this must not stop you from seeking help for a mental health condition. The sooner you find support and treatment, the sooner you feel better.

For someone people, the inability to find a provider also makes it difficult to seek therapy. Thanks to the growing number of online options, it is easy to get professional support if you cannot make it to the therapist’s office. Online therapy can cost less while also saving your travel time. It offers you a chance to work on your mental health issues with a licensed and qualified professional from the comfort of your home or office.

Whether you are experiencing mild stress, relationship issues or think you may be suffering from some mental health condition, seek medical assistance to find relief and start feeling better. It is essential to understand that therapists do not only treat mental illnesses, they also provide mental health diagnoses and work to prevent further mental health issues. Dr. Zlatin Ivanov understands it can be intimidating to find the right therapist and open yourself to someone you don’t know. He offers the best emotional support and guidance to help you cope with symptoms and conditions and live a more fulfilling life.