Psychiatrists diagnose and treat people who have mental illnesses.

Psychiatrists help patients with mental illnesses such as substance abuse, anxiety disorders, or depression. Some mental illnesses have a biological cause, such as a lack of the proper chemicals in the brain. Other mental illnesses are caused by an event, such as the death of a loved one.

Psychiatrists may have an area of specialty:

• Child and adolescent psychiatrists work with children or teenagers and their families
• Industrial psychiatrists help businesses deal with problems, such as violence or drugs in the work place
• Forensic psychiatrists testify in court on the mental state of people

Psychiatrists ask patients questions about current and previous mental health problems. They review the medical history and family background to try and find a cause of the problem. Sometimes they talk with family members to learn more about a patient's life. In addition, they may consult with other mental health specialists who have worked with the patient. They also use lab tests to help make a diagnosis.

After making a diagnosis, psychiatrists make a treatment plan. Mental illness can be treated in many ways. Psychiatrists can use psychotherapy to help patients talk about issues and solve problems. They can also prescribe medications. In serious cases, psychiatrists admit patients to hospitals.

Psychiatrists monitor a patient's condition by meeting with them regularly. They make changes in the treatment plan if needed.

Psychiatrists share similar tasks with other types of physicians, they:

• Consult with other health care professionals
• Oversee the business aspects of running an office
• Keep detailed records about each patient
• Write reports for insurance companies and government agencies

Some psychiatrists teach at medical schools. They may also do research on procedures and treatments for disease. Sometimes they do research and write articles for journals. Some psychiatrists teach or supervise students.