How Do Psychiatrists Treat Patients?

Psychiatrists are physicians that specialize in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of a variety of mental, emotional and addictive disorders. These disorders range from mild to debilitating, and include substance abuse, anxiety, depression, psychosis, sexual dysfunction and developmental disabilities, according to Health Communities. Treatment for these disorders often involves psychotherapy, medication and/or hospitalization.

Assessment

• Before treatment, psychiatrists conduct thorough psychological assessments to determine the individual needs of the patient. Through a series of open-ended questions, psychiatrists seek to gather information about any prior psychiatric treatments, diagnoses, hospitalizations, medications and acts of self-injurious behavior or suicide attempts.

Psychotherapy

• Psychiatrists frequently use psychotherapy techniques to treat mild to moderate mental and addictive disorders. The purpose of psychotherapy is to bring awareness to the patient that will trigger a change in behavior or thought process.

Medication

• Psychiatrists often prescribe medications that help reduce or stabilize moderate to severe psychiatric symptoms. Such medications include mood stabilizers, anti-depressants and anti-psychotics, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Medications may be taken on an intermittent, short-term, long-term or permanent basis, according to the length and severity of the patient's symptoms.

Hospitalization

• In severe cases, it may be necessary for a psychiatrist to place a patient in a more restrictive environment such as a mental health hospital. This is usually done to prevent the patient from causing harm to themselves or others. Hospitalized patients are constantly monitored for suicidal or self-injurious behavior.

Confidentiality

• Psychiatrists are required to adhere to strict ethical and legal standards, designed to protect the confidentiality of all patients. In most states, psychiatrists are mandated by law to report any knowledge of child abuse/neglect, elder abuse/neglect and any threats of suicide or homicide.