Still enjoying Psych

Well I have just finished my 5th week of Psychiatry and I fell that I now (as expected) have a much better picture about what it involves. I don't propose I have seen it all, but I am very fortunate that the program at my hospital allows for rotation into many different areas and (when the tutors show up) excellent tutorials. I have seen acute and frank Mania and Psychoses, many flavours of underlying personality disorders, mood disorders, schizophrenia and eating disorders plus many more... There have been times when the thought of doing psychiatry (as a specialty) is very unattractive, but there are other times when it is appealing. The ability to sit down and philosophize and delve into the underlying causes of disease not just in that patient, but the community in general which few clinical specialties could match and the humane hours are major draw cards.

But I think even more importantly, I now see how relevant mental health issues are in general med. How MANY patient's recovery or indeed, poor health to begin with, are strongly influenced by their mental health (often a delicate construct on a background of predispositions, genetic vulnerability and exposure/experiences in earlier life). I feel with a bit of psych awareness, patients can be treated more humanely (not just handled better) and that recovery can be enhanced. To sum up my current thoughts - which unfortunately can be a tad 'circumstantial' (psych term for circular thought formation) I think I will be a better doctor (in any field, including critical care) for my psych rotation and I am glad for the opportunity, and I might even try to fit in a 3-6mth term as a junior doctor before the specialisation begins.

Again..sorry for any redundant thoughts in my blogs - I am just addressing my current thoughts and perhaps that will decrease as I become a more experienced blogger