What does a psychiatrist do?
Psychiatrists specialise in treating a range of different mental illnesses, seeing patients with conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and anxiety disorders. They are authorised to recommend treatment plans, up to and including medication regimens or admission to hospital. Often their patients are suffering from emotional distress due to their mental health symptoms.
Tasks:
- Assessing mental and physical health of patients
- Examining lab tests, imaging, and other diagnostics
- Prescribing medications and other treatment programs
- Teaching medical students and registrars
- Assisting courts in managing patients in a legal setting
What skills do I need to be a psychiatrist?
Because psychiatrists deal with people in a clinical mental health environment, they need a comprehensive and very specific skill set. They must have a thorough knowledge of medical science, particularly in areas where mental and physical conditions overlap or comorbidity is a factor in diagnosis. They work closely with other medical practitioners including doctors, psychologists, and nurse in devising and implementing patient care programs. A calm, professional demeanour and super listening and communication are important parts of being a successful psychiatrist.
- Active listening to determine patient needs
- High levels of social awareness
- Complex problem solving skills
- Excellent communication skills
- Ability to make decisions under pressure
Specialisations
Psychiatry is a broad field and addresses the needs of patients throughout their stages of life. As a result, there are many subspecialties. They address particular issues such as addiction, or can deal with complex issues such as eating disorders.
Adult psychiatry
Addiction psychiatry
Neuropsychiatry
Study pathways for psychiatrists
Training for psychiatrists is rigorous, long and demanding, comprising an additional six years of post-graduate study following completion of a medical degree.
Skill Building
Build your skills and understanding of mental health disorders with targeted training
Professional Development
Develop your knowledge of mental health disorders and the health industry
Industry Recognition
In order to work as a psychiatrist in your state, you will need to register with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists.
Getting a job after graduation
Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your psychiatry career. Emphasise your personal strengths and achievements in your resume and target your cover letter to the job description listed.