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.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet connection
• Counseling appointment
• Psychiatric appointment

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Instructions

• 1

  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.

• 2

  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.

• 3

  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.