Psychiatry Department: Conditions, Tests and When to Go
Psychiatry is the medical specialty for mental health. Psychiatrists assess and treat conditions that affect mood, thinking and behaviour, using talking therapies, medicines and social support.
What Does Psychiatry Treat?
- Depression
- Anxiety and panic disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia and psychosis
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Addiction and substance use
Common Tests in Psychiatry
- Clinical interview and mental state examination
- Standard questionnaires (PHQ-9, GAD-7)
- Blood tests to exclude physical causes
- Risk assessment
When Should You See a Psychiatry Specialist?
- Low mood or anxiety affecting daily life for more than two weeks
- Thoughts of self-harm (seek help immediately)
- Hearing voices or losing touch with reality
- Alcohol or drug use you cannot control
Who Works in Psychiatry?
Mental health teams include psychiatrists, psychologists, mental health nurses and social workers.
Patient Tip
Talking to someone early, a friend, doctor or helpline, is a sign of strength.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
- Write down your symptoms, when they started and what makes them better or worse.
- Bring a list of all medicines and supplements, with doses.
- Carry previous reports, scans and discharge summaries.
- Note your questions in advance and, if possible, bring a family member.
Questions to Ask Your Psychiatry Specialist
- What is the most likely cause of my symptoms, and what else could it be?
- Which tests do I need, and what will the results change?
- What are the benefits and risks of each treatment option, including doing nothing?
- Which warning signs mean I should return urgently?
Getting Referred
In Pakistan and many other countries, the usual route to a Psychiatry specialist is through a family physician or general practitioner, who can start tests and write a referral. Large teaching hospitals and specialist centres also run outpatient clinics. In an emergency, go straight to the nearest emergency department.
Related Guides on ghkh.site
- Depression symptoms and treatment
- Anxiety Disorders symptoms and treatment
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This Psychiatry department guide is educational and based on public information from WHO, CDC, NIH and NHS. It does not replace advice from a qualified clinician. Explore all specialties in our medical departments directory.