Psychiatrist & the Treatment of Depression

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately 15 percent of American adults experience major depression per year. One of the treatment options available for major depression is psychiatric services.

Identification

• A psychiatrist is a medical doctor with specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. Psychiatrists work in hospitals, outpatient clinics and many other settings.

Function

• A psychiatrist typically diagnoses mental illnesses, prescribes medications, makes referrals to other mental health and medical services and has the ability to sign treatment plans.

Diagnosis

• A psychiatrist makes a diagnosis of major depression based on the criteria outlined in the DSM-IV. A diagnosis of major depression requires a major depressive episode that lasts for at least 2 weeks and includes at least 5 of the following symptoms: depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, weight changes, sleep changes, restlessness, loss of energy, feelings of worthlessness, poor concentration and suicidal ideation.

Medications

• Psychiatrists commonly prescribe antidepressant medications for treating symptoms of depression. Commonly prescribed antidepressants include Paxil, Celexa, Prozac, Wellbutrin and Zoloft.

Therapy

• Psychiatrists may occasionally provide therapy to individuals with depression. However, psychiatrists typically refer individuals to a psychologist or therapist for this purpose.