Psychiatry

What is Psychiatry?

Psychiatry is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders that affect human psychology. Depending on the patient’s condition and the nature of the disorder, various therapeutic methods are applied-these may include psychotherapy targeting emotional, cognitive, behavioral, or social aspects, as well as pharmacological treatments involving specific active substances.

Thanks to its broad clinical scope, psychiatry enables the effective treatment of numerous mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders through scientifically proven methods and personalized therapeutic approaches.

Which Disorders Are Treated in the Psychiatry Department?

Depression

Depression is a common psychiatric disorder characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed. It results from the brain’s inability to properly regulate emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Symptoms may include reduced motivation, disturbed sleep patterns, appetite loss, feelings of worthlessness, and impaired concentration. Depending on the severity and individual needs, depression is effectively treated through psychotherapy, cognitive therapies, brain stimulation techniques, and antidepressant medications.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders occur when the natural mechanism of fear and alertness-normally beneficial for coping with challenges-becomes overactive or dysregulated. Individuals with anxiety may experience excessive worry, sweating, or rapid heartbeat even in the absence of real threats. Although most patients recognize that their fear is irrational, they struggle to control it. Symptoms often include social withdrawal, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and emotional hypersensitivity. Treatment involves psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication when necessary.

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe psychiatric disorder influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. It is marked by distortions in thinking, perception, emotions, and behavior, leading to a loss of contact with reality. During acute episodes (known as psychotic phases), patients may experience hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and disorganized speech or behavior. In remission periods, apathy, lack of motivation, and cognitive difficulties such as impaired reasoning and problem-solving are common. Although chronic, schizophrenia can be effectively managed through early diagnosis, antipsychotic medications, and long-term psychotherapy.

Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, commonly diagnosed in children and sometimes persisting into adulthood. Individuals with ADHD often struggle to maintain focus on tasks, which can negatively impact academic, occupational, and social functioning. Treatment may include behavioral therapies, psychosocial interventions, and medication depending on the individual’s condition and age.

Sexual Dysfunction

Sexual dysfunctions are conditions that negatively affect one’s sexual well-being and often originate from psychological or relational issues. These may include sexual aversion disorder, arousal disorders, premature ejaculation, or anorgasmia. Psychotherapy is the primary approach in managing these disorders, and in cases involving couples, marital or couples therapy is also recommended to address underlying relationship dynamics.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is a psychiatric condition that develops after exposure to a traumatic or life-threatening event. Even months or years after the incident, the individual may continue to experience intrusive memories, flashbacks, and emotional distress. Avoidance of reminders-such as certain people, places, or situations-is common. Symptoms may include hypervigilance, sleep disturbances, irritability, and anxiety. Treatment typically combines cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and pharmacological interventions to promote recovery.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD is a psychiatric condition characterized by recurrent intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce distress. Common manifestations include excessive cleaning, checking, ordering, or repeating actions or words. Because OCD can resemble other mental health conditions, accurate diagnosis by a psychiatrist is crucial. The disorder can be effectively managed through behavioral therapy and medication targeting serotonin regulation.

Sleep Disorders

Sleep is one of the fundamental components of physical and mental health. Disorders such as insomnia, nightmares, frequent awakenings, or night terrors can significantly affect well-being and increase the risk of other health issues. While sleep disturbances may sometimes stem from non-psychiatric causes like obesity, cardiac disease, or lifestyle habits, many are linked to underlying psychiatric conditions. Treatment typically includes psychotherapy, behavioral sleep training, and, when indicated, medication.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is characterized by alternating episodes of mania and depression. During manic episodes, individuals may feel euphoric, energetic, and impulsive, while depressive episodes are marked by sadness, anxiety, and low self-worth. Between these episodes, the individual may experience periods of stable mood. Treatment varies depending on severity and may involve mood stabilizers, psychotherapy, and long-term follow-up to maintain emotional balance and prevent relapse.

Conclusion

Psychiatry is a dynamic medical field that integrates neuroscience, psychology, and social sciences to diagnose, treat, and prevent mental disorders. Through a holistic approach combining psychotherapy, pharmacology, and psychosocial interventions, psychiatric care aims to enhance patients’ emotional well-being, social functionality, and overall quality of life.