Depression is one of the most common, yet distressing mental health conditions, affecting about 4.5 million people in India. Depression is marked by extended periods of low mood, low energy, a lack of motivation, and difficulties in concentration and sleep, severely impacting a person’s daily functioning and overall well-being. Hence, early treatment is crucial to managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
However, many people find it difficult to choose between a psychologist and a psychiatrist when it comes to seeking treatment. In this article, we’ll explore the different roles of psychiatrists and psychologists when it comes to treating depression.
How Do Psychiatrists Treat Depression?
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. Educationally, they are required to complete an MBBS Degree and an MD in Psychiatry as their specialisation. As a part of their training, psychiatrists learn the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of various mental health conditions, including depression. In fact, psychiatrists are the only qualified professionals who can prescribe medication for depression and other mental health conditions.
Psychiatrists can help in the treatment of depression in various ways. They can prescribe anti-depressant medication, which helps improve mood and emotions in patients with depression. Additionally, psychiatrists are also trained in various psychological therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), etc. Thus, some psychiatrists can also offer counselling. However, psychiatrists mainly work with the biological aspects of depression through medications.
How Do Psychologists Treat Depression?
Most psychologists have a Master’s Degree in Psychology. Many psychologists also pursue additional training in various psychological approaches, such as Cognitive behaviour Therapy (CBT), REBT, etc. As a part of their degree, psychologists are trained in working with the human mind. So they mainly work with the thoughts, feelings and behaviours of people through talk therapy. Unlike psychiatrists, psychologists are not qualified to prescribe medication.
Psychologists can help people with depression in various ways. First, they can help clients understand the root causes of their depression by using various psychological approaches, such as CBT and Behavioural Activation (BA). Additionally, psychologists also help clients develop coping skills to manage their emotions and change their negative thought patterns, which are common symptoms of depression. So, psychologists mainly work with the thinking, emotions and behavioural aspects of depression through psychological talk therapy.
Who Should You Consult For Depression?
The answer to this question is a complex one, as deciding between a psychologist and a psychiatrist depends on various factors such as the duration, intensity and severity of depressive symptoms. Generally, a combination of talk therapy and medication is found to be beneficial for people experiencing severe symptoms of depression, while talk therapy can work with milder forms of depression.
Ultimately, choosing the right professional depends on your needs. Psychiatrists can be helpful in assessment and diagnosis as well as managing biological aspects of depression through medication. They can review and modify medications as needed as well. Psychologists, on the other hand, can provide weekly support and help improve the behavioural and emotional aspects of depression, making them both an integral part of the treatment.
Conclusion:
Both psychiatrists and psychologists can help treat depression, but their roles are different. A psychiatrist can help diagnose depression and manage its biological aspects through medication, while psychologists can work with the emotional and behavioural symptoms of the condition. Understanding their unique roles can help you choose the right professional according to your needs.
References:
- Psychologist Vs Psychiatrist. (2023, May 22). UCLA Med School. https://medschool.ucla.edu/news-article/psychologist-vs-psychiatrist-what-is-the-difference
- Psychologist vs Psychiatrist For Depression: Who is Better? (n.d.). Hers. Retrieved June 13, 2024, from https://www.forhers.com/blog/psychologist-vs-psychiatrist-for-depression
