Career Guide for Psychiatry Studies

Psychiatry is a branch of medical profession that deals with the mental, emotional and behavioral disorders in a person. are physicians who specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders. They treat patients with mild cases of anxiety as well as those with severe disorders that can cause dangerous and bizarre behavior. Psychiatrists may also diagnose mental retardation and treat alcoholism. They often work with other mental health workers, such as psychologists, psychiatric nurses, and psychiatric social workers.treatment, psychiatrists can prescribe drugs and use shock therapy and psychotherapy. In psychotherapy, psychiatrists use their special training to talk with one or more patients to help them understand and cope with their personal problems. field has gained a lot of importance in recent years due to stress and mental tension arising from the intricacies of modern lifestyle.

Courses & eligibility:

A candidate has to acquire a M.B.B.S degree from a medical college and appear for a postgraduate examination to study psychiatry as a subject of specialization. One can either pursue a postgraduate course (MD) in psychiatry or a diploma in psychiatry (DPM). The MD course is of three years in duration while the diploma course is of two years. Candidates are selected on the basis of an entrance test for the aforementioned courses.

Career Prospects:

Psychiatrists can work as counselors in hospitals, courts, prisons, NGOs and other large scale industries. Many beginning psychiatrists start their careers in established psychiatric offices and advance by building their own practices. Some specialize in fields such as child, educational, or legal psychiatry. Others become teachers, researchers, or administrators in colleges, hospitals, or other institutions. Expansion of the health-care industry, a growing population, and increasing life spans, as well as higher incomes and educational levels are spurring the demand of these professionals. Shortages of psychiatrists exist, especially in rural areas and in public facilities.

Remuneration:

In government hospitals, psychiatrists are offered the same salary as offered to other specialist doctors . The salary ranges between Rs.15, 000 –Rs.20, 000 per month. Private practice through self employment is the best option for a psychiatrist. Private practitioners on one sitting may charge Rs 300 or more per hour for counseling.