Psychiatrists diagnose and treat a broad range of mental health conditions affecting mood, thinking, behaviour and emotional wellbeing. These include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma-related conditions and certain personality disorders. They may also treat substance-use disorders and other complex mental health concerns. A psychiatrist considers the individual's symptoms, history and overall health to establish a diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Psychiatric diagnosis is primarily based on a detailed clinical evaluation rather than a single laboratory test. The psychiatrist discusses symptoms, their duration and severity, medical and psychiatric history, medicines, family history and their impact on daily life. A mental health examination may assess mood, behaviour, thinking, memory and perception. Depending on the symptoms, blood tests, imaging or other medical investigations may be recommended to rule out physical conditions that can contribute to psychological or behavioural changes.

Treatment depends on the condition, its severity and the individual's circumstances. Options may include psychotherapy, medicines, lifestyle and behavioural changes, or a combination of approaches. Different forms of psychotherapy can help people understand and manage thoughts, emotions and behaviours, while medicines may help regulate symptoms such as depression, anxiety, mood instability or psychosis. Treatment is individualized and may be adjusted over time according to the person's response, preferences, side effects and changing needs.

The appropriate approach depends on the diagnosis, severity of symptoms, treatment history and individual preferences. Psychotherapy may be particularly useful for many anxiety, mood and behavioural conditions, while medicines may be recommended when symptoms are moderate to severe, persistent or significantly affecting functioning. Some conditions respond best to a combination of medication and psychotherapy. The psychiatrist considers potential benefits, risks, side effects and the patient's goals when deciding whether one treatment or a combination is appropriate.

Support begins with listening without judgment and respecting the person's dignity and privacy. Family members can encourage treatment, help with practical needs and, when the patient agrees, participate in consultations or learn how to support the treatment plan. It is important not to pressure someone into discussing more than they are comfortable sharing. Families should also be attentive to significant changes in behaviour or functioning and seek professional help when there are concerns about immediate safety. Caregiver wellbeing matters too.

The first consultation usually involves a detailed conversation about your concerns, symptoms, medical and mental health history, medicines, sleep, lifestyle and how you are functioning in daily life. The psychiatrist may also ask about family history and previous treatments. There is no single test that determines whether someone has a mental health condition. The first visit may focus on understanding the problem and discussing possible diagnoses and treatment options. You should feel comfortable asking about the proposed treatment, expected benefits, side effects and follow-up.