Psychiatry and psychology are both branches of science that study psychological or mental problems. However, they have differences. One of the differences between psychiatry and psychology is the limits of treatment that can be given to patients.
Psychiatry is a medical science that focuses on mental health, while psychology is a non-medical science that studies a person’s behavior and feelings. Although different backgrounds, the two complement each other.
In addition to psychiatry and psychology, psychiatrists and psychologists are also often confused even though the two professions are different. The most fundamental difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist is their educational background and scope of work. In general, psychiatrists are doctors, while psychologists are not doctors.
Scope of Psychiatric Medical Duties
Doctors who have completed specialist education in psychiatry are called psychiatrists or mental health specialists (SpKJ). The main task of a psychiatrist is to diagnose and treat patients with mental disorders, as well as to prevent these disorders.
Here are some examples of mental disorders treated by psychiatrists:
- Depression.
- Phobias.
- Personality disorders.
- Dementia.
- Anxiety disorders.
- Sleep disorders, including insomnia.
- Eating disorders, including anorexia and bulimia.
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Schizophrenia.
- Addiction to drugs or alcohol.
In addition to treating the above conditions, psychiatrists are also often involved in treating diseases that may be related to the patient’s psychological condition, such as cancer, stroke, heart and blood vessel disorders. Because psychiatry is a branch of medical science, psychiatrists are also allowed to prescribe medications to help treat mental disorders experienced by patients. Unlike psychiatrists, psychologists do not have the authority to prescribe medication.
The Right Time to Visit a Psychiatrist
The right time to visit a psychiatrist or psychologist is when experiencing psychological complaints, especially if it has affected physical condition and daily activities. Patients may visit a psychologist first to get counseling when experiencing psychological complaints. However, when deemed necessary, the psychologist will refer the patient to a psychiatrist for comprehensive treatment.
However, there are some conditions that require patients with psychological complaints to be taken directly to a psychiatrist, such as schizophrenia or depression that is so severe that it has suicidal intentions. If treated directly by a psychiatrist, patients can immediately get treatment to relieve their symptoms, so as not to endanger themselves or others.
Psychiatry and psychology complement each other. However, the treatment that can be given by psychiatrists is different from that of psychologists. Because of this limitation, psychologists handle more psychological conditions related to everyday problems, while psychiatrists handle more severe mental disorders that require medication.
