When should you see a psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who assesses mental health, makes diagnoses, prescribes medication when appropriate, and works with the patient to develop a plan for further care. You do not need to wait for a crisis: it is appropriate to seek help when symptoms first appear or begin to interfere with everyday life.
When to arrange a consultation
Consider speaking with a professional if you notice one or more of the following in yourself or someone close to you:
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- persistent low mood, apathy, or loss of interest in usual activities;
- excessive anxiety, intrusive thoughts or repetitive actions, or panic attacks;
- persistent problems with sleep or appetite, or noticeable changes in body weight;
- difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions;
- marked or unusual changes in mood, activity, or behaviour;
- periods of unusually high activity, irritability, or a substantially reduced need for sleep;
- distress after a traumatic event, bereavement, or prolonged stress that does not ease and disrupts everyday life;
- symptoms that recur, worsen, or interfere with work, study, relationships, or self-care;
- lack of the expected benefit from treatment or unwanted reactions to medication.
A single symptom does not necessarily indicate a mental disorder. During the consultation, the doctor considers how long the symptoms have lasted, how severe they are, their effect on daily functioning, physical health, and other possible causes. If you find it difficult to assess the severity of low mood and related symptoms, you can take a short PHQ-9 self-assessment. The result does not replace a medical consultation, but it may help you describe what has been troubling you.
When urgent help is needed
Seek professional help as soon as possible if there are:
- thoughts of suicide, an intention, or a plan to cause self-harm;
- a risk of harm to another person;
- hallucinations, beliefs that are not based in reality, or severe confusion;
- sudden agitation, disorganised speech or behaviour, or loss of contact with reality;
- an inability to meet basic needs or maintain personal safety.
Do not leave the person alone if there is an immediate danger. Tell someone close to them and seek emergency help right now.
Conditions assessed and treated by psychiatrists
- depressive and anxiety disorders, including panic attacks;
- obsessive-compulsive disorder;
- bipolar disorder;
- psychotic conditions and schizophrenia;
- eating disorders;
- conditions related to alcohol or other psychoactive substances;
- the effects of traumatic events and adjustment disorders;
- mental disorders in children and adolescents.
Prolonged grief, stress, or emotional exhaustion is not always a mental disorder. A consultation is appropriate if the condition does not ease, is worsening quickly, has a significant effect on daily life, or is causing concern.
What happens during the first consultation?
The doctor will ask what is troubling you, when the symptoms began, and how they affect sleep, appetite, mood, energy, work, study, and relationships. It is also important to discuss physical health, previous treatment, medication, alcohol or other substance use, and any family history of mental disorders.
When appropriate, the psychiatrist may recommend additional examinations, consultation with another professional, psychotherapy, or medication. The doctor will discuss the available options, expected benefits, and possible risks with the patient.
Psychiatrist, psychologist, or psychotherapist?
A psychiatrist is medically trained, makes psychiatric diagnoses, and can prescribe medication. A psychologist provides psychological assessment and counselling within their professional qualifications. A psychotherapist uses psychotherapeutic methods according to their education and training.
If there are psychotic symptoms, signs of mania, thoughts of suicide, substantial difficulty functioning in daily life, or a need to start or adjust medication, it is appropriate to contact a psychiatrist directly. If you are unsure where to begin, you can ask for guidance when making the initial enquiry.
How to prepare for the appointment
Before the consultation, you may find it helpful to note the symptoms, when they began, changes in everyday life, the names and doses of medication you take, and questions for the doctor. If you wish and give your consent, someone close to you may attend the appointment.
Information shared during the consultation is confidential within the limits established by law. Online test results may help describe how you feel, but they do not provide a diagnosis or replace a clinical assessment.