Do psychiatrists always prescribe medication?

Primarily, psychiatrists do prescribe medication. They will diagnose you based on your symptoms during your consultations and provide a treatment plan with medication.

As medical doctors, psychiatrists prescribe medication if the situation calls for it. While a psychologist primarily performs counselling, psychiatrists also offer certain counselling services. 

After thoroughly evaluating your issues, a psychiatrist can prescribe psychotherapy or medication or both, depending on the severity and underlying causes. 

It is unlikely that your psychiatrist will prescribe medication on your first visit unless another doctor has referred you to discuss and provide medication specifically. If you do have an urgent concern, your psychiatrist may recommend medication to alleviate your discomfort for the time being until they can diagnose and provide a long-term treatment plan based on your symptoms. If you’re already on medication, your psychiatrist may prescribe the same if it works for you.

When you visit your psychiatrist, they will create an action plan for you. If your psychiatrist cannot treat you because it is outside their expertise, they will refer you to another more experienced health professional to provide proper treatment. For instance, if your mental health concern is linked to a physical health condition like diabetes, your psychiatrist may refer you to a specialist or physician for treatment. 

With the help of medication, psychiatrists can help you overcome your problems. However, if you stop the medication suddenly, the symptoms can come back like a tsunami. A small dosage is prescribed for less severe conditions. High dosages of medication are prescribed only when for severe symptoms and conditions. 

While psychiatrists mainly prescribe medication, there are a few instances where patients consult them for mild symptoms, relationship or family issues, or problems that require treatment or counselling rather than medication.

Medically reviewed by Dr Sunitha MBBS, DPM (NIMHANS), DNB

Dr Sunitha serves as the Chief Psychiatrist at Agan Health Trichy. She specialises in Adult Psychiatry, and her fields of interest include consultation liaison psychiatry and women's mental health. With over 15 years of experience in the field of mental healthcare, Dr Sunitha has been instrumental in positively transforming the lives of many in Tamil Nadu. She is also a consulting psychiatrist at some of the reputed mental health institutions in Tamil Nadu.