Psychologist vs Psychiatrist | Psychiatry & Psychology - What Are The Difference

The fields of psychology and psychiatry both deal with the study and treatment of mental health issues. While the terms “psychologist” and “psychiatrist” are often used interchangeably, they represent distinct professions. Each has different approaches to understanding and addressing psychological disorders. It is interesting to note that psychology and psychiatry share a common goal of improving mental health. However, they differ in terms of scope, educational paths, treatment approaches, and career opportunities etc. We will be discussing this in detail in upcoming sections.

Let’s Understand The Term Psychology

The term 'psychology' has come from two Greek terminologies, 'psyche', stands for the mind, soul or spirit and 'logos', denotes discourse or to study. The combination of these words is made up as 'Study of the mind'. Psychology appeared first as a discipline in its own right around the year 1879 when William Wundt opened the first ever psychology laboratory in the University of Leipzig in Germany. He and his colleagues were concerned with studying the mind via 'introspection', or observing their own thoughts and feelings as they occurred. These conscious mental processes were observed under carefully monitored circumstances, and the focus on measurement and control in these studies was what initially distinguished psychology from philosophy, as a scientific field of study.

So, What is the Meaning of The Term Psychiatry?

The expression psychiatry is derived from the Greek term ‘psyche’, meaning “mind” or “soul,” and ‘iatreia’, meaning “healing.” Until the 18th century, mental illness used to be seen as demonic possession due to lack of knowledge and superstition. However, it gradually started to be considered as an ailment that needs treatment. Psychiatry is the branch of medicine that deals with the causes, diagnosis, preventive measures and treatment of mental and behavioral disorders. Psychiatry is more inclined towards the mental illness or the disorders that can have a significant impact on patients′ quality of life, even life expectancy; and the patient/client may require a long-term or a life-long treatment.

Let’s Understand The Differences Between These Two

Psychiatry is a specialised study of mental diseases and thereafter prescribing medication based on the specific mental health disorder. Psychiatry is practised by a psychiatrist, someone who has received training in administration of medicines and prescribing a treatment plan based on the medical approach to illnesses. However, it is important to understand that some psychiatrists may have a training in psychotherapy yet all psychiatrists may not be equipped to carry on with psychotherapy as an action plan for treatment. Psychiatrists need to assess their patients from a biopsychosocial standpoint before starting off with any course of treatment.

Psychology is referred to as the more comprehensive study of human conduct and mental processes that may include feelings, emotions and behaviours of an individual, a family or group of individuals. Like biology or sociology, psychology is both a profession and an academic field of study. As a whole, psychology is interested in both the study of mental disease and usual, daily human conduct that impacts the well-being, thought processes and quality of life of an individual and/or community. Psychologists can investigate the effects of a line of treatment and the impact of medication or other chemicals on the human brain but they are not trained to prescribe or administer medicines.

Visit the best mental health care service provider in India.

What Are The Questions to ask?

List of Mental Health issues or situations which require Psychological Support

If You Are in a Stage of Transition

During the transition stage of life like shifting jobs, city or house, marriage and childbirth, puberty and menopausal phase etc. it is a usual feeling to be mentally and physically stressed, low and exhausted. But when these changes do not have a positive effect on you and instead make you feel worse, uncertain and unstable, seeking support of a psychologist to find out the core issue would help in gaining clarity and moving ahead instead of feeling permanently stuck in a temporary situation!

If You Have Low-self Esteem

We all feel low on confidence and get too self-critical sometimes. But when sadness, low confidence, worthlessness becomes persistent, intense and it is quite often that you feel low then take this as a red flag and you can consider seeing a psychologist and can visit at Mpower the Centre Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Pune and Delhi.

You Want to Harm Yourself

Have you ever had the feeling that even though there are solutions your life is not worth living?
Are you constantly struggling with the feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness?
Have you thought of harming yourself?


If your response is ‘yes’, then it’s time to prioritise yourself above all other engagements. With the help of a psychologist a possibility for anger management counselling can be explored. Remember that there is no point in harming yourself. It will not bring any results but will definitely cause you unavoidable damage. Talking to a psychologist will help in overcoming this state of intense thought. Mpower’s 24X7 Mental Health Crises Helpline can immensely support to minimise the risk.

DialUp: 1800 120 820050

If There Are Issues in Your Relationships

Relationships are very delicate and not all relationships are peaceful be it parent-child relationships, couple relationships, or any other. If you are facing issues in your relationships and you are unable to solve them or move ahead past the conflict, try connecting with a psychologist or a counsellor. Psychological therapies like couples therapy, family therapy etc. can help build your relationship again. Seeing a psychologist will help in exploring the ways to exercise your mental strength.

If You Are Going Through Emotional Disbalance

Everyone sooner or later, in their life goes through phases of confused emotions or emotional turbulence. There may be times when you want to cry but can’t. You or a friend may have gone completely silent, and numb by not showing any emotions be it happiness or sadness. Or there might be stages when you are unable to handle your feelings or feel completely heartbroken. For this, seeking support from a psychologist needs to be considered. Therapies like REBT, CBT, Narrative therapy, Mindfulness etc. will help in gaining emotional stability and strength.

Mpower’s support is just one call away: ONE NUMBER FOR ALL YOUR MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES CALL: 080 696 33333

If You Want to Withdraw Yourself Socially

If you were once the person who loved social gatherings, meeting friends, visiting places, or doing activities you are passionate about but now you no longer want to do things you once loved, meet friends and/or attend social gatherings. This can be a sign that you are not happy and need the help of a psychologist to share your thoughts and feelings. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with a therapist can help you to get back to normal living and again focus on things you once enjoyed.

You Are No Longer Productive and Effective in Your Work

Being unproductive sometimes is common but if you regularly feel so, it has become constant and intense then consulting with a psychologist is important. Moreover, if it is sudden and you feel you are no longer effective and feel low on productivity you can reach out to a psychologist for getting assessments and therapy-based sessions.

If You Have Faced Any Trauma

Past traumas are dreadful and disturbs an individual for a very long time. Not only this, but the impact is felt physically, emotionally, and mentally. Dealing with trauma is not easy as it makes the person miserable and scared over the period of time. Seeking the help of a psychologist can help in forgetting, fighting, and gradually overcoming the trauma. The essence of psychological support is that this session can help to overcome the traumatic experience without having any guilt and reducing the blame and guilt.

You can Check your mental health score here.

You Have Improper Sleeping and Eating Habits

Improper sleep and eating habits are another sign that indicates you need to connect with a psychologist before these concerns convert into eating and sleep disorders! Moreover, if such incidents are occasional or random it maybe, because of work or some stress. But if there are frequent episodes accompanied by bouts of intense and prolonged sadness, stress, or tension then it’s an alarm to look out for a psychologist.

If You Are Using Substances Like Drugs or Alcohol

Drug, alcohol, or caffeine addiction can harm anyone. Along with this, it also causes an imbalance in a person’s life. If you are an addict of any substance which may include use of any kind of drug, alcohol, or caffeine on a regular basis and want to get rid of this addiction, you should seek the help of a psychologist or therapist. They will help you to overcome the addiction and once again get back to normal living.

REMEMBER!

The above pointers are helpful in creating awareness as to when to consult a psychologist. When you observe any of these signs you need not wait but immediately seek the support of a therapist before the condition starts getting worse. Moreover, you can also consult a psychologist in case you are suffering from any medical disorders. Many times, controlling emotions is not in our control then look out for a therapist to free the thoughts and emotions that give a sense of being stuck. Seeking the help of a therapist will definitely help you to improve and gradually understand what does a psychologist do

Mental Health issues or situations which require Psychiatric Support

Trouble Controlling Emotions

It’s very normal to feel sad, angry or overwhelmed at times. Sometimes, it can feel like it’s just not your day but when this happens regularly and every time it looks like a sudden episode of anger or intense rage. There are episodes of violence and acting on hurling not only abuse but physical harm, the time is to stop and give a thought. The important element to spot is a lack of control which can be a disorder to be diagnosed by a psychiatrist.

Substance Abuse and Addiction Issues

The National Centre for Drug Abuse Prevention states that 16 crore people (14.6%) between the age of 10 and 75 years are current users of alcohol, and out of them, 5.2% are alcohol dependents. While approximately 50% of those with severe mental health disorders are affected by substance abuse. If someone regularly uses substances or can’t feel happy or in-control without them, this could be an alarming sign. People with mental health issues may turn to substances like drugs and alcohol to help them cope, deal with stress, navigate through guilt and shame or even relax. If you or someone you care about uses drugs or alcohol to escape, they may need psychiatric support.

Delusions, Hallucinations, or Other Signs of Psychosis

Delusions, hallucinations, and other signs of psychosis are serious symptoms that can indicate a mental health condition such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Delusions include false beliefs that are not based on facts, while hallucinations are experiences of hearing or seeing things that are not actually there. Other symptoms of psychosis can include disordered and unorganised thinking, difficulty following and maintaining a conversation or jumping from one topic to another, further marked by strange, suspicious or unpredictable behaviour. If you tend to feel that you or someone you know is showing symptoms of psychosis, it is important to seek help from a psychiatrist as soon as possible. They can provide an accurate diagnosis, develop a treatment plan, and provide support and guidance toward recovery through medication and other therapeutic approaches. With the right care and treatment, it is possible to manage symptoms of psychosis and lead a fulfilling life.

Obsessive Thoughts or/and Compulsive Behaviours

Obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviours can indicate the presence of an obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). OCD is a mental health condition characterised by persistent and intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) that the individual feels compelled to perform to reduce the anxiety caused by the obsessions. Obsessive thoughts often revolve around contamination, harm to oneself or others, symmetry or order, and unacceptable religious or sexual thoughts. Compulsive behaviours may include excessive cleaning, counting, checking, or repeating words or phrases. Treatment for OCD is to be done by a psychiatrist and it includes therapy, medication, and/or a combination of both. The holistic support and specific treatment plan is possible to manage symptoms and lead a fulfilling life. Don’t hesitate to seek help, as OCD is a treatable condition, and you don’t have to face this challenge alone but if not take action, then the situation can get worse.

Social Withdrawal

If there is a sudden change in habits, withdrawals from social situations, and isolation it could be a sign to seek support. Social withdrawal indicates an underlying mental health concern like depression or anxiety. It could also suggest that an individual is finding it difficult to cope and manage their emotions, or she/he might be fearing rejection, shame or going through a trauma. While social withdrawal doesn’t automatically mean there is something wrong, it could be a sign of an underlying mental health condition which comes under the prerogative of a psychiatrist.

Excessive Anxiety or Sadness

It’s completely normal to feel anxious or stressed at times like an important presentation at work, result day, or any other important event. But when intense and excessive worry, episodes of anxiety attacks and/or feelings of sadness are taking over your life or interfering with your ability to function, work, or carry out self-care, speaking with a psychiatrist will be beneficial.

Changes In Sleep Patterns

There is a close relationship between mental health and sleep. For instance, anxiety can keep you awake with your thoughts racing and you find yourself imagining scenarios that are far from converting into a reality. Another cause could be depression which can make you sleep more and cause insomnia. These restless nights will have a deep impact on your psychological health, your cognition, decision making, concentration etc. Seeking psychiatric support becomes essential as the situation can signify a deeper problem.

Sharp Increase in Mental Health Symptoms

A sharp increase in mental health symptoms can refer to both frequency and intensity. Episodes of mental health symptoms like panic attacks, obsessive and compulsive behaviours, intense anger and violence, thoughts of self-harm and suicidal ideation could come on suddenly, like out of nowhere. When these thoughts happen sporadically and occur more regularly this is a sign when the current mental health condition negatively starts affecting your quality of life, reaching out for psychiatric help is essential. Ongoing harmful behaviours can have long-lasting effects.

Significant Changes in Behaviour or Mood That Affect Daily Life and Relationships.

Significant and sudden changes in behaviour or mood and action can be a warning sign of a mental health issue. These changes range from sadness or hopelessness to irritability, anger, or restlessness. The changes in behaviour can also manifest as a decrease in social interaction and a withdrawal from loved ones due to fear or any other trigger there will be a significant impact on your overall well-being and relationships. Seeking help from a psychiatrist can help you regain control and improve your quality of life as mild medication can support minimising the chemical disturbances.

REMEMBER!

Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and it is essential to seek help when you or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns. Mental health conditions can manifest in various ways, including changes in sleep patterns, appetite, or energy levels, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, and thoughts of death or suicide. It may also include symptoms of increased anxiety or panic attacks, symptoms of trauma or PTSD, substance abuse or addiction, delusions, hallucinations or other signs of psychosis, and obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviours. Seeking help from a mental health organisation like MPOWER can provide a support plan and pave the way toward recovery. It is never too late to take control of your mental health and start the journey toward a healthier and happier life.

References: (Give Nofollow tag to these urls)

https://www.britannica.com/science/psychiatry

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3190449/

https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/psychiatrist-vs-therapist/

https://www.universityhealth.com/blog/when-should-i-see-a-psychologist

https://www.healthline.com/health/psychologist-vs-therapist

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10793817/

https://krea.edu.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Mental_State_of_India.pdf

https://cmhlp.org/imho/blog/the-interim-union-budget-fy-2024-25-where-does-mental-health-stand/