Patient and doctor in therapy session

What Conditions Can Psychiatrists Help Treat?

If you’ve ever struggled with your mental health, you’re not alone. And if you’ve ever struggled to figure out what kind of professional to see for mental health issues, you’re really not alone. From therapists to psychiatrists to counselors to psychologists, it can feel overwhelming to know the differences and get yourself the best help possible.

Almost one in five adults in the U.S. struggles with mental illness, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. This can include any mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder, such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, eating disorders, substance use disorders, bipolar disorder, and more. However, of the nearly 53 million people with mental illness, only 46.2% received mental health services in 2024; more women received mental help services than men and adolescents. If you’ve been considering getting help and aren’t sure where to start, depending on your symptoms and the severity of your concerns, a psychiatrist might be an ideal first stop.

When a psychiatrist might be your best option

Psychiatrist writing notes during patient therapy

A psychiatrist is different from other mental health professionals because they’re actual doctors with medical degrees who specialize in mental health (via U.S. News & World Report). They not only offer talk therapy and psychological testing but can prescribe medication as well. For those who suffer from more serious mental illness, have attempted suicide or have suicidal ideation, or are experiencing psychotic symptoms such as hearing voices, a psychiatrist should be consulted first.

Since psychiatrists have a medical background, they’re trained to differentiate between mental health issues and other underlying health issues that could come with psychiatric symptoms (via U.S. News & World Report). They can write prescriptions for medications that might be needed to help treat mental illness, such as antidepressants. Sometimes, however, medication alone isn’t enough, and more extensive therapy is needed.

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When mental health issues are less severe or you’re looking for more long-term support, a psychologist, licensed mental health counselor, or clinical social worker may be helpful (via WebMD). These professionals tend to focus more on psychotherapy, which focuses on a broad range of issues and can help with things like managing stress, understanding behavior patterns, navigating relationships, and regulating emotions.

Lesa O'Leary
Lesa O'Leary

Lesa is a dynamic member of OzHelp’s Service Delivery Team as the Service Delivery Team Leader and Nurse. She has been with OzHelp for five years and believes in leading by example. Lesa has experience in the not-for-profit sector, as well as many roles throughout different industries and sectors, including as a contractor to the Department of Defence. She has expertise in delivering OzHelp’s health and wellbeing programs and engaging with clients in a relaxed and comfortable manner that aligns with the organisation’s vision and objectives.

Lesa has a Certificate 4 in Nursing from Wodonga Tafe, Certificate 4 in Mental Health from Open Colleges, and is currently undertaking a Certificate 4 in Training and Assessment from Tafe NSW. For the past few months Lesa has been an Education and Memberships committee member of the ACT Branch of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC).