One in four of us will experience mental health problems at some time in our lives – that ranks with heart disease and cancer as being amongst the nation’s biggest health problems. As doctors, we can make a real difference to people with mental health problems and our treatment and support can help to change lives. Co-morbid mental illness complicates the presentation and management of physical illnesses and often has a significant bearing upon prognosis. All doctors must have the skills to recognise and treat psychiatric morbidity and we need to be able to listen to, assess and manage individuals who present or behave in an unusual way. 

The Psychiatry course is linked between year 4 and 5. In year 4 you learned the theory behind how to take a Psychiatric History and complete a Mental State Examination.  In year 5 you will get the opportunity to practice those skills and develop your abilities to assess and manage patients with mental health problems using person centred bio-psycho-social approaches within a team setting.

The assessment, care and treatment of people with a mental disorder is one of the most stimulating and interesting areas of medicine.  You will use medical, scientific and interpersonal skills to work with people of all ages and from all walks of life, challenging stigma and managing risks whilst considering legal and ethical aspects of care for some of the most vulnerable members of our society.

Some students struggle with these challenges, others thrive on them. Either way, you won’t find psychiatry boring! 

Dr Robert Clafferty

Consultant Psychiatrist

Year 5 Psychiatry Module Organiser robert.clafferty@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk