Psychiatry is the field of medicine dedicated to the study and treatment of mental health conditions. A person trained and credentialed to practice this type of medicine is called a psychiatrist.
Psychiatrists may treat mental health conditions that interfere with daily functioning, such as depression and anxiety, and may also treat mental health conditions caused by physical injuries, such as traumatic brain injury.
While many people with a mental health condition benefit greatly from therapy, not all concerns can be treated with therapy alone. Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other conditions may sometimes be so debilitating that medications may be advised in order for a person to better manage their condition and health.
Additionally, some severe and persistent conditions, such as schizophrenia and bipolar, may occasionally require treatment with medication for the purpose of safety and/or stability. In such cases, psychiatry is often recommended. Although no single treatment approach works for everybody, it may be helpful to consult with a qualified medical professional to see if psychiatry, and specifically the use of medications, may be helpful.