Psychiatry FAQ

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor with specialized training in:

• Prescribing medication and coordinating care
• Diagnosing mental health conditions
• Treating emotional and psychological disorders

In addition to psychiatrists, other providers include:

• Psychiatric nurse practitioners – trained specifically in mental health care
• General physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners – may treat common conditions like anxiety and depression

At UCSC Psychiatry, we employ:

• Psychiatrists
• A psychiatric case manager – to help students connect with on- and off-campus resources

Psychiatrists help individuals experiencing:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
• Psychosis
• Self-destructive or violent impulses
• Suicidal thoughts
• Substance abuse

They also consider how physical health may influence mental health and coordinate overall care accordingly.

Treatment options may include:

• Medication – for conditions like severe depression, bipolar disorder, and psychosis
• Psychological and interpersonal support
• Referrals – to CAPS, the Health Center, or off-campus providers
• Therapy or life changes – when medication is not needed

Psychiatrists assess each individual to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Ask your provider the following:

• What is the name of the medication, and what is it supposed to do?
• How and when do I take it, and when do I stop taking it?
• What if I miss a dose?
• What foods, drinks, or other medications should I avoid?
• Should it be taken with food or on an empty stomach?
• Is it safe to drink alcohol while on this medication?
• What are the side effects, and what should I do if they occur?
• Is there printed information about the medication available?
• What are my other treatment options?

No. Psychiatrists evaluate and treat:

• A wide range of concerns – from mild to severe
• Students seeking help voluntarily or referred by others

Yes, UCSC psychiatrists can provide recommendations and limited treatment for substance abuse disorders. If the student is suffering from significant withdrawal symptoms, a higher level of medical supervision and treatment may be required.

What types of substance use disorder treatments are available and how can psychiatrists help?

Psychiatrists can provide both medications and counseling to help students decrease their use of various drugs, most commonly nicotine, alcohol, and marijuana. The most effective treatment for substance abuse involves counseling. Medications can be helpful for withdrawal symptoms and support the student in maintaining recovery.

Does UCSC offer Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)?

Yes, UCSC psychiatrists do provide medication assisted treatment for students in recovery from opioid abuse. However, UCSC only provides maintenance treatment, not initial treatment. Students who are considering cessation or are in acute withdrawal need to seek another local resource to initiate MAT.

Please note:

• UCSC does not initiate or refill ADHD medications through Psychiatry or Primary Care.
• See our ADHD Info page for more details.

Steps to start the process:

1. Call CAPS at (831) 459-2628 during business hours.
2. Schedule an initial assessment with a CAPS counselor.
3. Answer screening questions and discuss next steps.

Important:

• UCSC Psychiatry may not refill prescriptions from other providers without an in-house assessment.
• The process may take several weeks to a month or more.
• See the “Transfer of Psychiatric Care” section on our Psychiatry page.

Take the following steps:

1. Contact your current prescriber for a refill.
2. If unavailable, ask your pharmacy or a previous provider for a one-time refill.
3. If that’s not possible, contact CAPS for an initial assessment and explain your situation.

Note:
UCSC Psychiatry cannot guarantee urgent refills. Please plan ahead.