Too often, mental health care is postponed due to fears about what treatment might entail. This comprehensive guide gives frank and authoritative answers to all the questions typically raised by individuals and their family members -- plus some they might not even think to ask. Explaining what really works when treating psychological difficulties, leading psychiatrist and author Dr. James Morrison shares knowledge gleaned from years of clinical practice. Presented are the pros and cons of available medications -- including details on safety and side effects -- as well as psychotherapy and alternative treatments. Readers learn to recognize the symptoms and warning signs of a wide range of mental health problems, find the right doctor or therapist, and make well-informed decisions about their own care. Included are diverse examples and fact-filled charts that compare the advantages and disadvantages of different treatments. This is a book readers will turn to again and again.

Part I: Seeking Help. Taking Charge of Your Care: What Mental Health Clinicians Do. Will Treatment Help Me? Where Can I Go for Help? What Is My Role in Treatment? Part II: Treatment Options. Introduction to Psychiatric Drugs. Antidepressants. Mood Stabilizers. Drugs to Treat Anxiety and Insomnia. Antipsychotic Medications. Drugs for Dementia. Drugs to Treat Substance Abuse. Nondrug Physical Treatments. Psychotherapy. Behavior Modification. Part III: Mental Disorders. Depression. Mania and Mood Swings. Anxiety and Panic. Phobias. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Somatization Disorder. Psychosis and Schizophrenia. Alzheimer's and Other Dementias. Eating and Sleeping Disorders. Substance Abuse. Appendices: A. Resources. B. Medication Generic and Trade Names.