Psychiatry is the branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. It overlaps with psychology and the science of wellbeing under the umbrella of behavioral health. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in disorders of the mind, including mood, anxiety, psychotic, and substance use disorders. Psychiatrists are qualified to assess both the mental and physical aspects of these conditions. Their main method of intervention is through pharmacology, or the use of medication to establish the needed healthy chemical balance in the brain. A psychologist is a graduate of a school of psychology who uses talking therapies and also other forms of interventions to help individuals, couples, families, or even organizations to identify problems and solve them. Other mental health professionals, such as occupational therapists, nurses, and social workers form the multidisciplinary team that is needed to offer a comprehensive assessment and plan for patients.
People seek mental health treatment for many reasons and at all stages of their lives. There are dozens of conditions that start early on in life and others that appear in adulthood or even later. As long as there is discomfort, distress or suffering a consultation is justified and may or may not lead to treatment. Psychiatric symptoms can be sudden, such as a panic attack, frightening hallucinations, thoughts of suicide. They may be more chronic such as feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or anxiousness that never seem to lift. They may also be things we feel personally or that are noticed by others. Any of these conditions can impact our daily functioning, our emotional stability, and our relationships. The good news is that they are often treatable and personal balance can be reestablished.
The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at the American Hospital brings together a team of experienced clinicians from various academic and cultural backgrounds. Regardless of whether you choose to see a psychiatrist or a psychologist first our specialist will help you make sense of your problem, reach a diagnosis when needed, and offer you the most suitable intervention. The package of treatment may include pharmacology (medication) psychotherapy, lifestyle advice, speech, or occupational therapy. We may also refer you to colleagues in other specialties. Rarely, hospitalization is required for better monitoring its treatment. This can also take place at our hospital or at chosen facilities. We aim to provide the best evidence-based treatment for mental health with the compassion, respect, and sensitivity we would expect for ourselves and our families.
