What is neuropsychiatry?

Neuropsychiatry, a branch of psychiatry, is the study and treatment of psychiatric or behavioural disorders that occur in patients with neurological conditions. Neuropsychiatrists perform neurological investigations, psychometric studies (neuropsychology) and additional investigations to evaluate disorders such as Parkinson’s, dementia, schizophrenia, cerebrovascular accidents or head injuries.

In turn, neuropsychology complements investigations carried out in the field of neurology and psychiatry with the study of relationships between behaviour and brain functions in patients who have suffered some type of brain damage. In this way, advances can be applied to the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of patients with deficits and damage in brain mechanisms linked to specific behaviours.

Which diseases does neuropsychiatry treat?

Neuropsychiatry is focused on mental disorders in patients with damage to the nervous system. This includes neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and cerebral palsy. It also includes mental disorders that develop following brain injuries.

What are the subspecialties within neuropsychiatry?

The evaluation and interpretation of the brain and its illnesses is very complicated, which is why specialists must combine psychiatry and neurology, but also needs the input of psychologists and radiologists.

When would I have to visit the neuropsychiatrist?

You would visit a neuropsychiatrist if you have been diagnosed with a disease of the nervous system. The purpose of the visit could be to monitor your disease, to monitor the effectiveness and side effects of medication, or simply to perform cognitive boosting activities or therapy. Some sessions may involve your relatives or other people.