Psychiatrist is a doctor who specializes in mental health, including substance use disorders. Psychiatrists are qualified to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems. Psychiatrists will determine whether the illness is caused by mental health or another physical condition, often looking to rule out another medical cause of the symptoms before a diagnosis. For example, a psychiatrist might examine through medical testing whether the patient’s negative feelings are because of a thyroid problem rather than an anxiety disorder. They also consider whether a chemical imbalance is causing the problem, as well as observe the physical reaction of the body to the symptoms. After diagnosis, they might prescribe medication to manage the condition. Psychiatrists often prescribe medications in combination with psychotherapy.

Some of the common conditions addressed by a psychiatrist include:  problems adjusting after major life changes or stress, anxiety or fear, depressed or low mood that does not go away, suicidal thinking, violence, agitation or emotional outbursts, delusions (fixed beliefs with no basis in reality), eating disorders (such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa), substance use disorders (alcohol and drug abuse), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), problem gambling, gaming or other addictive behaviour, poor concentration and attention, hyperactivity, memory problems etc.