Clinical Handbook of Psychiatry

Psychiatry is a medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of mental disorders. These mental disorders may include maladaptations related behavior, cognition, mood and perception. The initial psychiatric assessment of a person generally starts with mental state examination and a case history. Psychological tests and physical examination may also be conducted. Occasionally, neurophysiological techniques and neuroimaging are used. In current practice, a combination of psychotherapy and psychiatric medication is used for psychiatric treatment. But contemporary practice also includes several other modalities such as community reinforcement, assertive community treatment and supported employment. Depending on the severity, treatment may be delivered on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Such selected concepts that redefine psychiatry have been presented in this book. It brings forth some of the unexplored aspects of this field. The aim of this book is to serve as a resource guide for students and experts alike and contribute to the growth of the discipline.