Promoting mental health and strong family connection

There are times when our cognitive capability is compromised by aging, accidents, and health conditions. Some of these may cause early onset of Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia and mental health issues, like depression, anxiety, panic disorders, and more. At Pontiac, we render intensive medical attention to our residents who are experiencing mental health problems. On top of medical services, we encourage family members and their loved ones to regularly communicate with our residents by sending letters and drawings and video chatting with them online.

In addition to medical interventions, we provide tailored psychiatric services in Oswego, New York, aimed at maintaining and enhancing cognitive function. These therapies may include memory exercises, problem-solving activities, and social engagement initiatives to help slow the progression of cognitive decline. Our trained staff are dedicated to fostering an environment where residents feel supported and encouraged in their journey with cognitive challenges.

Signs You Need Psychiatric Care

Persistent Changes in Mood

  • Experiencing prolonged feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or irritability that do not improve over time.
  • Feeling unusually anxious, fearful, or overwhelmed in situations that previously didn’t cause distress.
  • Exhibiting mood swings or extreme fluctuations in emotions without a clear cause.

Difficulty Managing Daily Activities

  • Struggling to perform routine tasks such as cleaning, eating, or getting dressed due to mental health challenges.
  • Becoming easily fatigued, overwhelmed, or unable to focus on day-to-day responsibilities.
  • Withdrawing from social activities or relationships that were once enjoyable or fulfilling.

Changes in Cognitive Function

  • Experiencing memory loss, confusion, or difficulty concentrating on simple tasks.
  • Having trouble making decisions or processing information effectively.
  • Exhibiting changes in speech, thought patterns, or behavior that are out of character.

Frequently asked questions

What is psychiatric care?
Psychiatric care involves the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders by licensed professionals, such as psychiatrists or psychologists. It includes a variety of services like therapy, counseling, medication management, and crisis intervention to help individuals manage mental health conditions, improve well-being, and enhance overall quality of life. The goal of psychiatric care is to support individuals in overcoming mental health challenges and achieving mental stability.
How can I tell if someone needs psychiatric care?
Signs that someone may need psychiatric care include significant mood changes, difficulty functioning in daily life, withdrawal from social activities, or noticeable cognitive changes like memory loss or confusion. If an individual is experiencing emotional distress that affects their ability to perform basic tasks or if they are displaying harmful behaviors, seeking psychiatric evaluation is crucial to determine the need for professional intervention.
What types of conditions do psychiatrists treat?
Psychiatrists treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and neurocognitive disorders such as dementia. They also help manage symptoms related to stress, substance abuse, and mood disorders. Treatment may involve a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle recommendations.
What is the role of therapy in psychiatric care?
Therapy in psychiatric care helps individuals explore their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors to better understand the root causes of their mental health issues. It provides a safe environment for patients to discuss challenges and develop coping strategies. Different therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or talk therapy, aim to promote healthier thinking patterns and provide tools for managing symptoms.
How do psychiatrists diagnose mental health conditions?
Psychiatrists diagnose mental health conditions through comprehensive evaluations that include interviews, questionnaires, and observations. They may ask about the patient’s personal history, medical background, family dynamics, and current symptoms. Diagnostic tools like the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) help psychiatrists identify specific conditions and create individualized treatment plans.

We’re Here to Help

For more information, you may call us at 315-343-1800 or use our online form to get started.

caregiver and senior man smiling