What does psychiatry primarily focus on?

Psychiatry primarily focuses on mental disorders, which encompass a wide range of conditions affecting mood, thinking, and behavior. The field of psychiatry involves the diagnosis and treatment of various mental health issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Psychiatrists utilize various therapeutic techniques, medications, and other interventions to help patients manage their mental health.

The emphasis on mental disorders distinguishes psychiatry from other medical specialties that focus on physical health, such as those that deal with neonatal care or respiratory health. These other areas target specific bodily systems or stages of life rather than the complex interplay of psychological, emotional, and social factors intrinsic to mental health and illness. Thus, the correct focus on mental disorders in psychiatry reflects its unique role in supporting and treating individuals with psychological challenges.