What is psychiatry?

Psychiatry is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental health disorders. Doctors of psychiatry, or psychiatrists, specialize in treating various mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Psychiatry is based on medical research and treatment, and psychiatrists can prescribe drugs, perform therapy and, if necessary, refer the patient to other forms of treatment, such as hospitalization. Psychiatry strives for comprehensive treatment that takes into account the patient’s physical, psychological and social well-being.

The field of psychiatry also includes various psychiatric disorders, such as personality disorders, eating disorders and drug addictions. Psychiatry is an important part of healthcare, and its goal is to help patients achieve a better quality of life and well-being.

Sources: Suomen Psykiatriayhdistys, Institute of Health and Welfare