8 Signs You Need to See a Psychiatrist

Many people struggle in silence, unsure when it’s time to seek professional help. You might wonder if you should wait and see, or if your symptoms are serious enough for medical attention.
Here are 8 signs that it might be time to see a psychiatrist.

1. Your sleep and appetite are affected

When anxiety or depression becomes serious, you may find it difficult to sleep, notice changes in your appetite, or feel persistently low on energy and concentration. When these biological functions start to change, it’s a sign that your mental health is worth assessing by a psychiatrist who can address your emotional and physical symptoms.

2. You can no longer function well at work or school

If your emotional wellbeing starts to affect your daily function (e.g. struggling to complete tasks, meet deadlines, or stay motivated), it’s time to seek help. Students may find their grades dropping despite trying hard, while working adults might receive feedback that their performance is slipping. These changes can signal a deeper issue that requires professional assessment.

3. Your family and friends are expressing concern

As the Chinese saying goes, “旁观者清”, the onlooker sees clearly. Loved ones often notice changes before we do.
They may pick up on subtle shifts in your mood, energy, or behaviour that are difficult to see from the inside. Because most people are not confrontational, if your family, partner, or close friends gently suggest getting help, it often means they are genuinely worried.
Their perspective can be an important signal, and it’s worth listening.

4. You need a medical report

There are situations where you may need a psychiatric medical report to explain your condition to your school, employer, or insurance provider, so that suitable accommodations can be made.
For example:
  • Students with ADHD may need extended time or separate rooms during exams.
  • Those in National Service may require specialist documentation for medical downgrading, so that the psychiatrist’s report can be submitted to their camp doctors or SAF psychiatrists.
  • Individuals who believe their mental health contributed to their legal cases may benefit from a forensic report. It may be best to speak to their lawyer first before requesting a psychiatric report, to determine whether it will be relevant or helpful to their case.

5. You need a medical certificate (MC)

Psychiatrists, being medical doctors, can issue medical certificates (MCs) when rest is a necessary part of recovery.
This is often important in conditions such as major depressive disorder or burnout, where taking time off for a few days to a few weeks supports proper healing. An MC can also help your employer plan temporary coverage while you focus on getting better. For students, this may allow teachers to reduce exam stress and provide additional academic support.

6. You may have a condition that requires medical treatment

Some mental health conditions — such as ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or dementia — respond best to medical treatment. For instance, ADHD medications have been used safely for over 70 years, and are consistently shown to be more effective than therapy alone (for example, using to-do lists, timetables, or Pomodoro methods) in improving focus and daily function. In disorders like bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, medication helps restore balance in brain messengers (neurotransmitters) before therapy can be effective, as individuals may not yet have full insight into their condition.

7. You are open to considering medication

Medication can be an important option for people with moderate to severe symptoms, as it is often shown to be more effective than therapy alone in such cases. It may also suit those who do not have time for frequent therapy sessions, which are usually once every two weeks or more. When used appropriately, medication can provide relief from overwhelming symptoms, allowing individuals to function and engage better in therapy. Research consistently shows that combining therapy and medication leads to better outcomes than either alone.

8. You want a thorough medical evaluation

Because psychiatrists are also medical doctors, they can assess whether your symptoms have physical causes.
For example, fatigue, low mood, or anxiety can sometimes be linked to anaemia, thyroid disorders, or vitamin deficiencies. Your psychiatrist may recommend blood tests or brain scans to rule out these conditions before beginning treatment, ensuring a complete and accurate understanding of your health.

Did You Know?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who completed medical school followed by 6 to 8 years of specialist training in psychiatry. They can prescribe medication, provide therapy, and issue medical reports and certificates.

Psychologists hold a degree and postgraduate qualification (Master’s or PhD) in Clinical Psychology. They provide psychological therapy (talk therapy) and may conduct IQ or educational assessments, but they cannot prescribe medication.

Holistic mental wellness at Private Space Medical

At Private Space Medical, we are a one-stop medical wellness group offering comprehensive mental health care under one roof.

Our team includes psychiatrists, family doctors, psychologists, family and couples therapists, art therapists, and educational psychologists — all with extensive experience in Singapore’s major public hospitals.

If you are unsure who to see first, you can book an appointment with any of our doctors or therapists. We have a “no wrong door” policy, and our team will guide you after the first session to ensure you receive the most suitable care.

With over 7000 clients treated, our approach blends science, compassion, and discretion.

Call us today to take the first step towards recovery.

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Dr Victor Kwok
Senior Consultant Psychiatrist