Psychiatry is a branch of medicine that scientifically examines changes occurring in individuals' emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, and deals with the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of mental illnesses. Human mental health is a broad structure that affects not only a person's inner world but also their social relationships, functionality, decision-making skills, and overall quality of life. Therefore, psychiatry is both an important part of the healthcare system and a preventive and curative field that an individual may need throughout their life.
Psychiatry is the medical specialty concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of mental, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral disorders. The psychiatry department provides the evaluation of mental and neurodevelopmental conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The diagnosis of psychiatric disorders is established through clinical interviews, mental status examinations, the individual's medical history, and, when necessary, psychometric tests. Treatment is planned according to the individual's symptoms, diagnosis, and needs. Pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and, in appropriate patients, methods such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS/TMS) may be considered. Early evaluation and a personalized treatment plan can help manage symptoms and support daily functioning.
What Conditions Does the Psychiatry Department Treat?
The psychiatry department is concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders that affect a person's mood, thoughts, behaviors, and daily life. These conditions can have varying levels of impact on sleep, appetite, attention, social relationships, and work or school life. The psychiatrist evaluates the duration, severity, and impact of the symptoms on the person's life to formulate an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan. The main conditions treated by psychiatry include:
Depression
Depression is a mood disorder that can present with symptoms such as prolonged depressed mood, loss of interest and pleasure, decreased energy, changes in sleep or appetite, and difficulty concentrating. It can affect a person's ability to fulfill daily responsibilities, social relationships, and quality of life. Diagnosis is established by evaluating the duration and severity of symptoms. Treatment may involve psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, or a combination of these methods.
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders are mental disorders in which intense or persistent anxiety and fear negatively impact a person's daily life. Symptoms may include excessive worry, restlessness, palpitations, muscle tension, sleep problems, and difficulty concentrating. The frequency, severity, and difficulty in controlling the anxiety are taken into account during diagnostic evaluation. Treatment may involve psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, or both approaches used together.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by significant shifts in a person's mood, energy levels, and activity. During periods of mania or hypomania, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, and impulsive behaviors may occur; during depressive periods, depressed mood and loss of interest may emerge. The nature, duration, and cyclical course of symptoms are evaluated for diagnosis. Mood-stabilizing medications, other medications as needed, and psychotherapy may be included in the treatment plan.
Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders
Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders are mental illnesses that can affect thought processes, perception, and the ability to evaluate reality. Delusions, hallucinations, disturbances in thought and speech organization, or a decrease in social functioning may be observed. Diagnosis is established by evaluating the course of symptoms and other potential causes. Treatment may involve antipsychotic medications, psychosocial interventions, and supportive approaches tailored to the individual's needs.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is characterized by the experience of unwanted, recurring, and distressing thoughts, impulses, or images, leading to repetitive behaviors or mental acts. Behaviors such as checking, cleaning, and mentally repeating certain thoughts may be observed. Symptoms can be time-consuming and disruptive to daily life. Treatment may particularly involve cognitive behavioral therapy and the exposure and response prevention approach, along with pharmacotherapy when necessary.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental disorder that can develop following a traumatic event, affecting a person's mood, thoughts, and daily life. Symptoms may include re-experiencing the traumatic event, nightmares, avoidance of reminders, exaggerated startle response, and hypervigilance. The diagnosis evaluates the duration of symptoms and their impact on functioning. Treatment may involve trauma-focused psychotherapies and, where appropriate, pharmacotherapy.
Panic Disorder and Phobias
Panic disorder can involve recurrent unexpected panic attacks accompanied by persistent worry about having additional attacks or behavioral changes related to the attacks. During a panic attack, symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fear of losing control may occur. Phobias, on the other hand, are associated with intense fear regarding specific objects or situations. Treatment may include psychotherapy and, when necessary, pharmacotherapy depending on the nature of the symptoms.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can manifest as difficulties with sustained attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity. It can begin in childhood and persist into adulthood in some individuals. Symptoms such as inattention, forgetfulness, organizational difficulties, excessive physical movement, or acting without thinking may be observed. Diagnosis is established by evaluating the developmental history of symptoms, their appearance across different settings, and their impact on daily life. Treatment is planned according to age and needs.
What Are the Symptoms of Psychiatric Disorders?
Symptoms of psychiatric disorders can vary depending on the type of mental state experienced and the individual's characteristics. Emotional changes, differences in thought processes, behavioral changes, and physical complaints may occur together. Long-lasting, recurring symptoms or those that affect a person's daily life may warrant a psychiatric evaluation. The main symptoms that can be seen in psychiatric disorders include:
- Prolonged sadness, unhappiness, or hopelessness
- Intense anxiety, fear, and restlessness
- Changes in sleep patterns or appetite
- Loss of energy and decreased interest in daily tasks
- Difficulties with attention, concentration, and memory
- Difficulty in anger control and marked behavioral changes
- Withdrawal from social environments and introversion
- Repetitive, distressing thoughts or behaviors
- Perceiving things that are not real or difficulty evaluating reality
- Difficulty fulfilling daily responsibilities
The presence of any single symptom alone is not sufficient to diagnose a psychiatric disorder. When the symptoms started, how long they have lasted, and how they affect the individual's life must be evaluated by a specialist.
When Should You See a Psychiatrist?
You can consult a psychiatrist when emotional, cognitive, or behavioral changes begin to affect daily life, work or school performance, and social relationships. Persistent anxiety, depressed mood, sleep problems, recurring panic attacks, difficult-to-control thoughts, or distinct behavioral changes may require professional evaluation. It is not necessary to wait for symptoms to worsen; early consultation can facilitate access to appropriate evaluation and treatment. A psychiatric evaluation should especially be considered in the following situations:
- Prolonged continuation of emotional distress
- Difficulty fulfilling daily responsibilities
- Marked changes in sleep, appetite, or energy levels
- Avoidance of certain environments due to anxiety or fear
- Difficulty controlling thoughts and behaviors
- Significant deterioration in family, friend, or work relationships
- Re-emergence of symptoms of a previously diagnosed mental illness
Emergency help should be sought if there is a risk of the individual harming themselves or others, or if a sudden and severe impairment in reality testing develops.
How Are Psychiatric Disorders Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of psychiatric disorders is established through a comprehensive clinical evaluation conducted by a psychiatrist. This process addresses the reason for consultation, symptoms, onset and course of symptoms, medical history, medications used, and family history. A mental status examination evaluates mood, thought content, perception, attention, and other mental functions. Psychometric tests, laboratory examinations, or other relevant medical evaluations are utilized when necessary.
A psychiatric diagnosis is not based solely on a test result. It is important to evaluate symptoms collectively, consider different potential causes, and meet diagnostic criteria. Follow-up interviews may be required in some cases to clarify the diagnosis. Based on the findings obtained, an appropriate treatment and monitoring plan is formulated for the individual.
What Tests Are Used in Psychiatry?
Tests used in psychiatry may be administered to evaluate a person's symptoms in more detail, measure difficulties in specific areas, and monitor the treatment process. The choice of test is made according to the individual's age, reason for consultation, and clinical evaluation findings. It is not necessary to administer the same tests to every patient. Psychometric scales and neuropsychological evaluations are tools that support the clinical interview; they are not sufficient on their own to make a diagnosis.
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Test or Evaluation |
Brief Description |
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A self-report scale that helps evaluate the severity of depressive symptoms. | |
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Helps evaluate the level of anxiety symptoms. | |
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Hamilton Depression Rating Scale |
Can be used in the clinician's evaluation of depression symptoms. |
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Helps measure the severity of anxiety symptoms through a clinician evaluation. | |
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Used to evaluate the severity of obsessive and compulsive symptoms. | |
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Supports the evaluation of ADHD symptoms and their impact on daily life. The scale used may vary depending on age and the purpose of the evaluation. | |
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Contributes to a comprehensive evaluation of personality traits and psychological symptoms in appropriate clinical situations. | |
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Can be used in assessing attention, memory, executive functions, and other cognitive domains. |
The administration and interpretation of tests must be performed by specialists with appropriate training and competence. The psychiatrist or the relevant specialist conducting the evaluation decides which tests are necessary.
How Are Psychiatric Disorders Treated?
The treatment of psychiatric disorders is planned according to the diagnosis, severity of symptoms, individual needs, co-occurring health problems, and treatment preference. Treatment may involve psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, or a combination of these approaches. In certain clinical conditions, brain stimulation methods such as ECT or rTMS/TMS may also be considered. The aim of the treatment process is to reduce symptoms, support daily functioning, and monitor the course of the illness.
Pharmacotherapy
Psychiatric medications can be used in various conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders. The type of medication, dosage, and duration of use are determined based on the individual's diagnosis, symptoms, and response to treatment. Potential side effects and clinical response are regularly evaluated during treatment. It is not appropriate to start medications, change dosages, or stop them abruptly without a physician's recommendation.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is a structured treatment approach that helps individuals understand their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, and develop coping skills for symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and different psychotherapy methods can be considered according to the individual's needs. The type and duration of psychotherapy vary depending on the problem addressed and treatment goals. In some cases, psychotherapy may be applied alone, while in others it is used in combination with pharmacotherapy.
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a medical treatment method administered by delivering controlled electrical stimulation under general anesthesia and muscle relaxation. It may be considered particularly in certain severe depressive presentations, clinical situations requiring a rapid response, or when adequate response to other treatments has not been achieved. The decision of suitability is made as a result of psychiatric evaluation and medical examinations. Information regarding potential benefits, risks, and side effects is provided prior to the procedure.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS/TMS)
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS/TMS) is a non-surgical treatment method that aims to affect the activity of nerve cells in specific regions of the brain through magnetic pulses applied over the scalp. It can be administered to individuals deemed appropriate following a clinical evaluation, particularly in certain presentations of depression. The treatment protocol, number of sessions, and targeted brain region are determined according to the individual's clinical condition. Suitability assessment and treatment monitoring must be conducted by a specialist physician.
NPİSTANBUL Hospital Psychiatry Department
NPİSTANBUL Hospital Psychiatry Department provides healthcare services for the evaluation of mental and behavioral problems, the diagnostic process, and treatment planning. In psychiatric evaluations, the individual's symptoms, life history, medical background, and daily functioning are addressed together. The appropriate treatment approach is determined based on clinical findings and the individual's needs.
To obtain information about the psychiatric evaluation and treatment process, learn about the services offered in the department, and reach the appropriate specialty area, the hospital's relevant department and physician pages can be reviewed.
NPİSTANBUL Psychiatry Specialists
NPİSTANBUL Hospital psychiatry specialists' academic titles, educational backgrounds, professional experience, and fields of work must be presented in physician profiles. The physicians' areas of expertise and clinical experience help patients reach the specialist suited to their reason for consultation. The following information should be included for each physician in this section:
- The physician's name and academic title
- Area of expertise and clinical topics of interest
- Educational and academic background
- Professional experience and institutions where they have worked
- Link to the physician's detailed profile page
- Physician information must be based on the institution's current and verifiable records.
Treatment Technologies Used in the Psychiatry Department
Treatment technologies used in psychiatry may come into consideration in certain clinical situations in addition to standard evaluation and treatment approaches. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS/TMS) are methods with different application principles. The suitability of these treatments is determined by evaluating the individual's diagnosis, symptom severity, prior treatment experiences, and medical condition.
Methods actually provided in the hospital, application conditions, and related specialty services must be clearly stated in this section. A technology or treatment not offered within the institution must not be displayed among the available services.
