When should I seek psychiatric treatment for a friend or family member?

When should I seek psychiatric treatment for a friend or family member?

Christopher Reist (Academic Psychiatrist, Co-Author of “Psychiatry”) gives expert video advice on: How do I know if I should go to see a psychiatrist?; How does a psychiatrist diagnose a patient?; Is a psychiatrist allowed to tell others about me? and more...

In many cases, individuals who are developing mental disorders sometimes don't have the insight that they are becoming ill. A friend can serve an important role in pointing out the changes that they have observed in their friend and suggest that treatment and help is available - especially with a <a href="http://www.videojug.com/interview/bipolar-disorder">bipolar disease</a>. Another important time when a friend should intervene on behalf of an individual who is depressed is when they are concerned over suicide. Fifteen percent of patients with depression commit suicide. In the United States it amounts to over 30,000 people each year. When this happens it can be a medical emergency and you should do whatever you can to get that person into the treatment.