· Psychiatry is ...
· If you need help
· What is a   psychiatrist?
· Mental Illness:   Warning Signs
· Psychiatric   Treatments

Psychiatrists use a wide range of treatment approaches including various forms of psychotherapy, medications, hospitalization and other treatments according to the needs of the patient.

Psychotherapy is a systematic method of treatment in which, during regularly scheduled visits, patients discuss troubling problems and feelings with the psychiatrist who helps them understand the basis of these problems and to find solutions. In some cases, psychiatrists offer therapy in a group with other patients sharing similar problems, or meet with a family as a whole. Psychiatrists also work as a team with other physicians or mental health professionals

Psychiatrists can prescribe a number of medications that are effective against mental illnesses, such as depression, manic depression, anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophrenia and others. Psychiatrists recommend medications when thorough evaluation of a patient suggests that medication will help, usually in conjunction with psychotherapy. The psychiatrist will discuss with each patient his or her special needs and preferences, as far as possible, to ensure a productive working relationship.

When assessing and treating a child or adolescent, a psychiatrist will need to work closely with parents or guardians, school personnel, and sometimes other community agencies as well as the child’s pediatrician. Similarly, with elderly patients, family members and other support systems are often involved.