What is a psychiatrist and what do they do?
Mental health problems need to be treated so that they do not escalate or cause further emotional or psychological harm to a person. A range of professionals are involved in mental health services, including psychiatrists, counsellors, and therapists.
Mental health services are free in the UK under the NHS. To access services, people most commonly speak to their GP in the first instance before being given a referral to the relevant help. This may include help from the GP surgery, a specialist mental health organisation, a hospital, or within the community.
The role of a psychiatrist
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose mental health problems and play a role in treating them. They can prescribe medications or other methods of treatment.
Psychiatrists usually deal with more complex mental health cases, which can include alcoholism, Alzheimer’s, ADHD, schizophrenia, and panic disorders. They may prescribe a variety of treatment methods, such as psychotherapy, medications, and electroconvulsive treatment (ECT). Medications can include ketamine, mood stabilisers, hypnotics, or anti-psychotics.
Unlike psychology, which focuses on things such as behaviours and emotions, a psychiatrist specialises in medicine, diagnosis, and treatment.
A psychiatrist focuses on the cognitive and behavioural impact of having a mental health condition that affects the brain. This contrasts with a neurologist, who focuses on the physical aspects and symptoms of a condition.
Mental health training
Understanding mental health is paramount for those working with children and adults. Having a foundation of knowledge helps to identify those in need whilst removing the stigma attached to mental health.
A wide variety of courses is available, including mental health awareness, psychological first aid, and challenging behaviour training. A range of mental health training courses Newport and the surrounding area is available from providers such as www.tidaltraining.co.uk/mental-health-training-courses/newport.
An understanding of mental health enables people to be better supported at times of mental health need or crisis, while appropriate training will ensure awareness is spread and equip individuals with the skills needed to identify and signpost those concerned to mental health services.
