Who are Psychiatrists?

Branch of medicine that deals with diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental disorders like bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, dementia, autism, and obsessive-compulsive disorders, etc. is called Psychiatry. Physicians or doctors who are specialized in the branch of psychiatry are called Psychiatrists.

What are the qualifications of Psychiatrists?

A 5-year medical degree [MBBS] that is recognized by the General Medical Council and a 2-year foundation course of general training are the basic requirements for an individual to be a doctor. However, following are the specialties or extra qualifications required to be a Psychiatrist:

• Member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, United Kingdom (MRC Psych)
• MD - Psychological Medicine
• M.Med - Psychiatry
• Diplomate of American Board of Psychiatry and NeurologyM.D. (Psychiatry)
• MRCP (UK)
• Diploma in Psychiatry
• DPM (Psychiatry)
• Master of Psychiatry - MPSY
• PhD - Psychiatry
• FRCP - Psychiatry
• M.D. Hom (Homeopathy Psychiatry)
• Diploma in Clinical Psychiatry
• DNB - Psychiatry

When should an individual consult a Psychiatrist?

If an individual is suffering from any of the following mental disorders or medical conditions, then he/she should consult a Psychiatrist:

• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar disorder
• Excessive stress
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Autism
• Dementia
• Alzheimer’s disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder [PTSD]
• Neurodevelopmental disorders

What is the difference between Psychiatrists and Psychologists?

Psychiatrists are medical professionals who are well trained and authorized to treat mental health conditions with medications and lifestyle modifications. However, Psychologists are not medical doctors and help the patients by providing psychotherapy [talk therapy] only.

Can Psychiatrists treat anxiety?

Anxiety is a mental health disorder that consists of intense, excessive, and persistent feelings of fear, worry, and stress. This can increase the onset of symptoms like depression, headaches, and dizziness. Anxiety can be treated by a Psychiatrist with proper medications, counseling, and lifestyle modifications.

Can Psychiatrists do counseling?

Yes, Psychiatrists can counsel their patients and can prescribe medications in order to treat mental disorders.

Can Psychiatrists treat schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a type of chronic mental illness that needs long term treatment. A well-experienced Psychiatrists can treat schizophrenia through medication and psychological therapies. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.