How to Know If Your Psychiatric Care Is Working by

Dr Waheed Olajide Lawal

It can be hard to tell when things are getting better, especially in mental health The process is not always fast or dramatic, and progress often comes in small, steady steps. Still, some signs can show if your psychiatric care is on the right track First, take note of how you feel on a day-to-day basis Are you sleeping better, eating more regularly, or managing stress more easily than before? These small improvements are important. As defined by Dr. Waheed Olajide Lawal, they signal that your treatment may be helping, even if significant changes haven’t occurred yet

Another way to measure progress is through your relationships Are you more patient with family? Are you reaching out to friends again or engaging in conversations that used to feel exhausting? When your care is effective, it becomes easier to connect with others, even during stressful times. These emotional shifts, although subtle, are often the first indicators of healing

Also, pay attention to how you handle setbacks Do you recover from bad days faster than before? If a stressful moment doesn’t derail you the way it used to, that’s a powerful sign of emotional growth Psychiatric treatment isn’t about never feeling bad it’s about learning to bounce back with greater strength and clarity

Another signal that care is working is how well you understand your condition You might find yourself asking more questions or recognizing your symptoms earlier This awareness means your treatment is giving you tools, not just comfort. A growing sense of control and insight is one of the clearest signs that you’re on the right path

Of course, regular check-ins with your provider are key You should feel safe discussing what’s working and what’s not. If you’re afraid to speak up or feel like your concerns are being dismissed, that could be a red flag The right psychiatric care is a team effort You deserve to be part of that team

Progress in mental health isn’t always linear, but it should be noticeable over time When you see changes in behavior, energy, relationships, and resilience, you’re likely on the right track Trust your observations, speak openly with your provider, and stay committed. Effective mental health care brings more than relief it brings transformation