Many people feel scared or unsure when they start to struggle with their mental health. You may feel low, anxious, or not quite yourself, and not know why. You may ask, “What’s wrong with me?” or “Who do I talk to?”
This is where a psychiatrist can help. A psychiatrist is a doctor who looks after people with mental health problems. Their job is to understand how you feel and help you find the right support.
Let’s look at how they do that — in a simple and clear way.
Also Read: What Is ADHD, And What Are The Symptoms Of ADHD?
What Is a Psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in mental health. This means they understand how the brain works, how emotions affect us, and how to treat mental health conditions.
A psychiatrist can:
- Talk to you about what you’re feeling
- Make a mental health diagnosis
- Offer treatment, such as talking therapy or medication
This brings us to a common question: Psychologist vs Psychiatrist — what’s the difference?
A psychiatrist can prescribe medicine and works with more serious or long-term mental health conditions.
A psychologist is trained to help with emotional and thinking problems, usually through talking therapy, but they cannot give medicine.
Both professionals are helpful. Some people may need one, while others may benefit from seeing both.
Signs of Mental Health Issues
Mental health problems can affect anyone, at any age. Some people feel very tired or sad all the time. Others may feel anxious, angry, or find it hard to focus or sleep. These are just a few examples.
Here are some common signs of mental health issues:
- Feeling low or hopeless for days or weeks
- Worrying too much or feeling on edge
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Losing interest in things you once enjoyed
- Finding it hard to cope at work or at home
- Feeling very angry or confused
- Avoiding friends and family
- Feeling like you don’t want to be here anymore
If you notice these signs in yourself or someone else, it’s a good idea to speak to a GP or mental health professional. You are not alone, and there is help.
How Does a Psychiatrist Make a Diagnosis?
When you first meet with a psychiatrist, they will want to get to know you. They are there to listen, not to judge. The meeting usually lasts between 45 minutes to an hour.
Here’s what they usually do:
1. Ask Questions About Your Life
The psychiatrist will talk to you about:
- How you’re feeling
- How long you’ve felt this way
- Your family and home life
- Any problems at school, work, or in relationships
- Your sleep, appetite, and general health
They may also ask about any past experiences or if others in your family have had mental health problems.
2. Look at Your Physical Health
Sometimes, physical health problems can affect mental health. The psychiatrist may ask about your medical history or suggest a physical check-up to rule out other causes.
3. Use Simple Tools
They may ask you to fill out a short form or answer questions to better understand your mood, thoughts, or behaviour. These are not tests, just ways to help understand how you feel.
4. Make a Diagnosis
Based on what you say and how you’ve been feeling, the psychiatrist may give you a diagnosis. This might be something like:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Bipolar disorder
- PTSD – Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- ADHD – Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- OCD – Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
- Psychosis
Getting a diagnosis is not a label — it’s a step towards getting the right help. It helps you understand what’s happening, and what can be done to help you feel better.
What Happens After the Diagnosis?
Once a diagnosis is made, the psychiatrist will talk to you about your diagnosis and treatment options. This may include:
- Talking therapies – like counselling or CBT, where you talk to someone trained to help you manage thoughts and feelings.
- Medication – to help with mood, anxiety, sleep, or focus
- Lifestyle support – such as improving sleep, eating well, or daily routines
- Follow-up appointments – to check how you are doing over time
You will not be forced into anything. The psychiatrist will work with you to create a plan that suits your needs.
It’s OK to Ask for Help
If you’re struggling, it does not mean you are weak. Life can be hard sometimes, and it’s okay to say you’re not feeling right. Many people experience mental health problems, and most can get better with the right help.
You might start by talking to your GP. They can refer you to a psychiatrist if needed. You can also get support through local mental health clinics or services that help people with emotional and mental health issues.
Final Thoughts
Seeing a psychiatrist can feel scary at first, but it’s a caring and helpful step. Their job is to listen, understand what you’re going through, and help you find a way forward.
Whether you feel sad, anxious, confused, or just not yourself, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Help is there, and things can get better.