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Psychiatric Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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psychiatric

[saɪˈkaɪətrɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

related to mental health

Relating to the study and treatment of mental illness or disorders.

Synonyms

mental health, psychological, psychological.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
psychiatric

Used to refer to medical aspects of mental health conditions, often involving diagnosis and treatment by a psychiatrist.

  • She was admitted to a psychiatric hospital for further evaluation.
  • Psychiatric disorders require professional medical attention.
mental health

A broad term that covers overall well-being in terms of emotional, psychological, and social aspects. It’s used in both medical and everyday contexts to discuss the state of someone's mind.

  • Taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
  • The company offers mental health days to help employees manage stress.
psychological

Pertains to the science of the mind and behavior, often focusing on emotional and cognitive functions. It can be used in both academic and everyday contexts.

  • Psychological support can help individuals deal with anxiety.
  • He consulted a psychologist to address his psychological issues.

Examples of usage

  • Psychiatric hospitals provide care for patients with severe mental health issues.
  • She works as a psychiatric nurse, helping patients with their mental health.
  • The psychiatric field has made significant advancements in understanding mental disorders.
  • Many psychiatric medications are available to help manage symptoms.
  • Psychiatric evaluations are often used to diagnose mental health conditions.
Context #2 | Noun

medical profession

A medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness.

Synonyms

doctor, mental health professional, therapist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
psychiatric

Use this word when referring to issues or treatments related to severe mental illnesses that often require medical intervention.

  • She was admitted to a psychiatric hospital for treatment
  • His condition required psychiatric care
mental health professional

Use this phrase when referring to any professional who works in the mental health field, including therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Appropriate for formal and inclusive contexts.

  • A mental health professional can help you manage stress
  • He consulted a mental health professional for his anxiety
doctor

This term is general and refers to a medical professional who may treat physical or mental health conditions. Suitable for formal or general contexts.

  • She went to see a doctor about her insomnia
  • The doctor prescribed some medication
therapist

This term is suitable when referring to a professional who provides talk therapy or counseling to help individuals with their emotional and mental health. Suitable for casual or formal contexts.

  • She has been seeing a therapist to cope with her anxiety
  • The therapist suggested some techniques to manage stress

Examples of usage

  • She decided to become a psychiatrist to help those struggling with mental health.
  • The team of psychiatrists at the hospital work together to treat patients.
  • Psychiatrists often work in collaboration with therapists and counselors.
  • Seeing a psychiatrist can be beneficial for managing mental health conditions.
  • The psychiatrist prescribed medication to help with the patient's symptoms.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • The field of psychiatry evolved significantly in the mid-20th century with the introduction of psychoanalysis by Sigmund Freud.
  • Before modern psychiatry, mental health was often misunderstood, leading to inhumane treatments in asylums.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'A Beautiful Mind' and 'Girl, Interrupted' depict the struggles and triumphs faced by individuals with mental health issues.
  • TV series such as 'Crazy Ex-Girlfriend' provide a humorous yet poignant look at mental health and therapy.

Science

  • Research in psychiatry has shown that mental illnesses can be caused by a blend of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.
  • The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) is a critical tool for diagnosing mental health conditions.

Psychology

  • Psychiatry often intersects with psychology, focusing not just on treatment but also understanding behavior and mental processes.
  • The biopsychosocial model is used in psychiatry to approach treatment by considering biological, psychological, and social factors.

Origin of 'psychiatric'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek words 'psyche,' meaning soul or mind, and 'iatreia,' meaning healing.
  • It first appeared in the early 19th century as mental health began to be seen as something that could be treated.

The word 'psychiatric' originated from the Greek word 'psychikos', meaning 'of the mind', and the word 'iatreia', meaning 'healing' or 'curing'. The term 'psychiatric' first appeared in the early 19th century to describe the medical field focused on mental illness and disorders. Throughout history, psychiatric practices and treatments have evolved significantly, leading to improved understanding and care for individuals with mental health conditions.

See also: psychedelic, psychiatrist.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,355 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.