Consult Psychiatrists Online (176 doctors)

Who is a Psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist is a medical practitioner who is proficient in identifying, preventing and treating mental-health-related disorders. They undergo four years of training in a medical college, followed by a one-year internship and three years of specialised training as a psychiatric resident. A qualified psychiatrist differentiates mental health issues from other underlying medical problems that may include psychiatric symptoms. These doctors also check the harmful effects of mental illness on physical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart issues, and after-effects of medicines on the body.

What is Meant by Psychiatry?

Psychiatry is a specific branch of medicine that focuses mainly on prevention, diagnosis and treatment of behavioural, emotional, and mental health disorders. A psychiatrist is equally qualified to examine both the physical and mental prospects of psychological disorders. 

When Should You Consult a Psychiatrist?

Numerous symptoms may require an online psychiatrist consultation.

Signs or symptoms for which psychiatrists can offer help are listed below. 

• Hurting yourself
• Worry or anxiety
• Sleeping issues, body image issues, and lasting depression
• Poor concentration, hallucinations or delusions
• Problems adjusting to life changes
• Uncontrollable drug or alcohol use
• Obsessive thinking and emotional outburst

Not all mental health conditions require medical treatment. Many people consult psychologists or seek help from counsellors first and then go to a psychiatrist doctor if needed. 

Roles and Responsibilities of a Psychiatrist

A psychiatrist determines all of your physical and mental symptoms. They diagnose and work with you closely to develop a proper management plan for your treatment and recovery. They also provide psychological treatment, perform procedures like electroconvulsive therapy, and prescribe medicines.

• Advice about lifestyle changes.
• Provide second opinions and advice, if any.
• Admit an individual to the hospital, if required.
• Provide immediate care for a sudden mental illness.
• Recommend you to other healthcare professionals.
• Help to manage a long term mental illness, if any.

What Conditions do Psychiatrists Treat?

A psychiatrist doctor treats various mental health conditions like:

• Depression
• Hallucinations and schizophrenia
• Bulimia and anorexia (eating disorder)
• Hyperactivity and delusional thinking
• Post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD
• Neurodevelopmental disorders like autism or (ADHD) attention deficit hyperactivity disorder 
• Severe anxiety, stress and worry
• Violent outbursts, inability to concentrate, and obsessive thoughts
• Memory issues and negative thinking
• Sleeping disorders or insomnia
• Different thoughts of hurting others and body image issues
• Addictions of drugs, gambling, and alcohol

Types of Processes Followed by a Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists use a variety of treatments like different forms of medications, psychotherapy, psychosocial interventions and other related treatments like electroconvulsive therapy or ECT, depending upon the requirement of each patient. They use various techniques to examine whether a person's symptoms are psychiatric, physical illness or both. These doctors should have a deep knowledge of general medicine, pharmacology, neurology, biochemistry, psychology, and biology to determine the result.

Where to Find a Psychiatrist?

Ready to consult a psychiatrist online but not sure from where to begin? You are not alone! Before getting started, it's significant to know that all psychiatrists are different from other mental health doctors. A certified medical doctor can prescribe medications, unlike certified therapists and psychologists. Finding a psychiatrist doctor is often the biggest block that prevents you from getting appropriate help. However, you can consult the best psychiatrist online using the Apollo 24|7 app or website.