Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists diagnose, treat, and help prevent mental disorders.
Psychiatrists' jobs mainly focus on mental health. They deal with behavioural disorders such as anxiety attacks, depression, and hallucinations. Psychiatrists enlist a variety of treatment modes which include psychotherapy, psychosocial interventions, and medication.
A psychiatrist doctor spends much of their working day with patients. Away from patients, they review treatment protocols and maintain precise notes on their patients’ progress. The vital responsibilities of psychiatrists include working in medical hospitals, consulting with other professionals to ensure a patient’s treatment plan is being followed or adjusting the plan as needed. Psychiatrist doctors in rehab clinics often meet with family members of the patient to keep them informed of the treatment.
Becoming a psychiatrist takes years of rigorous study. How to become a psychiatrist? One needs to first have to complete your schooling in the science stream with Biology as one of the main subjects. Then, you will have to pursue MBBS. One should further by completing a doctor of medicine specialising in psychiatry.
As a psychiatrist doctor, you should be a skilled communicator, keeping patience and understanding while listening effectively. You should possess the ability to manage clinical uncertainty and deal with difficult emotions. You should be calm as it can often help to diffuse a situation when the patient gets angry. Embracing these aspects of psychiatry prepares you for a successful career filled with intellectual stimulation and enquiry.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- Ph.D. Psychiatry
- M.D. Psychiatry
- MBBS Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
Tasks
- Analyze and evaluate patient data or test findings to diagnose nature or extent of mental disorder.
- Prescribe, direct, or administer psychotherapeutic treatments or medications to treat mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders.
- Collaborate with physicians, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurses, or other professionals to discuss treatment plans and progress.
- Gather and maintain patient information and records, including social or medical history obtained from patients, relatives, or other professionals.
- Counsel outpatients or other patients during office visits.
- Design individualized care plans, using a variety of treatments.
- Examine or conduct laboratory or diagnostic tests on patients to provide information on general physical condition or mental disorder.
- Advise or inform guardians, relatives, or significant others of patients' conditions or treatment.
- Review and evaluate treatment procedures and outcomes of other psychiatrists or medical professionals.
- Prepare and submit case reports or summaries to government or mental health agencies.
Progression Routes
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