Psychiatrists Aren’t as Scary as You Think!

What you should know for better mental health in the workplace

When people hear the word “psychiatrist”, many immediately think it’s only for serious mental illness or extreme problems. In reality, psychiatrists are simply doctors who take care of our minds, just like general practitioners look after our bodies. Anyone can visit a psychiatrist when they feel like they’ve reached a point of “I just can’t take it anymore.”

This article will walk you through when to consider seeing a psychiatrist, the costs involved, and how to prepare so you feel as comfortable as possible.

When should you see a psychiatrist?

You don’t have to wait until a crisis to seek help. If you have any of these symptoms, consulting a psychiatrist may be the right step:

• Persistent sadness, stress, or anxiety that interferes with daily life

• Trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, or loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed

• Panic attacks, excessive fear, or unusual irritability

• Thoughts of self-harm or feelings of worthlessness

• Using substances, alcohol, or other behaviors to escape problems

If even one or two of these apply, don’t hesitate. The earlier you seek help, the faster the recovery.

Costs and insurance coverage for psychiatric care

Many people worry about expenses, but there are actually several options:

• Public hospitals – Affordable fees, with coverage under universal healthcare or social security, including doctor visits and some medication.

• Private hospitals – Costs typically range from USD 30–90 (about 1,000–3,000 THB) per session depending on the doctor and facility.

• Health insurance – Some plans cover psychiatric consultations and medication, so check your policy.

In short, anyone can see a psychiatrist, starting from a nearby public hospital—it doesn’t always have to cost much.How to prepare before meeting a psychiatrist

There’s no need for extensive preparation, but these steps can help make the conversation smoother:

• Keep notes on your symptoms (e.g., how long you’ve been feeling down, average sleep hours).

• Think about when your symptoms feel worse or what triggers them.

• Prepare a list of medications you’re currently taking, plus any relevant medical history.

• Most importantly: keep an open mind. Psychiatrists are not there to judge, but to help you understand yourself and find the right solutions.

How to take care of your mental health and stay resilient

Taking care of your mental well-being isn’t difficult, it’s about building consistent habits:

• Prioritize sleep: Adults should aim for 7–9 hours per night, ideally going to bed between 9–11 PM for full brain and body recovery.

• Eat nutritious meals: A balanced diet of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, fish, and healthy fats supports both body and mind by regulating brain chemistry.

• Exercise regularly: Physical activity boosts endorphins, helping you feel happier and more relaxed.

• Open up to someone you trust: Talking reduces stress and strengthens relationships instead of bottling emotions inside.

• Take breaks from social media: Especially if constant comparison makes you feel pressured or inadequate.

• Practice mindfulness or breathing exercises: Just 5–10 minutes daily can calm the mind, reduce overthinking, and restore emotional balance.

Visiting a psychiatrist isn’t something to fear, it’s an act of self-care, just like seeing a doctor when your body is unwell. Looking after your mental health is truly an investment in a better quality of life.

And if you’d like to read more helpful articles like this, you can check them out at Jobcadu.