is it really worth it to become a psychiatrist?

Question

I am working on my undergrad degree in psychology and thinking very seriously about pursuing a career in psychiatry. The problem is that I don't know if I can handle medical school or if I would enjoy the profession. would someone in the field please tell me what it is like?

Answer 1

If med school seems too daunting, then consider a phd in clinical psych. You wouldn't be able to write prescriptions (yet) and the lifetime earnings wont be as high, but it's a viable alternative.

However, it's nearly impossible to get into a PHD program in psychology straight from undergrad. You NEED research experience. I highly suggest you do an honors thesis to gain experience. Then in the second semester of your sr year, start looking for research positions at area hospitals or with the state dept of mental health.

Or, you could work on a master's in a specialized psychology field such as forensic psych ( which works well with clinical) and then continue with your phd after you obtain your masters. This is what I'm going to start in the fall.

Answer 2

A qualified psychiatrist needs high qualifications. It is NOT easy. You will be working with patients with mental instabilties, counseling, problems such as social rejection and homosexuality.

A phD would be required to be in this profession.
An Honours in psychology can allow you to work in a private hospital.

Think you know statistics and biology are some components needed in the psychology field. They are the foundations.

If getting Masters of phD is too demanding, then look into a career of a social psychologist or child psychologist or even a marriage counsellor.

Personally its not worth it because even you become one, it is hard to find the job.

Answer 3

Seems like an easy job. All you do is prescribe medications, do evaluations.

Then again, the balance of another persons life is in your hands. Their mental status.

YOU would have to be really GOOD at chemistry.