Overview

Neuropsychiatry is the branch of medicine concerned with both neurology and psychiatry. Neurology is a medical specialty concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the nervous system, which includes the brain, the spinal cord, and the nerves. Psychiatry is the branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental disorders that include various maladaptations related to mood, behavior, cognition, and perceptions.

Symptoms

Different behavioral and physical symptoms appear, depending on the disorder.

Causes

Psychiatric disorder / Mental illness - Although the exact cause of most mental illnesses is not known, it is becoming clear through research that many of these conditions are caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors.

Neurologic disorder - Trauma, infections, degeneration, structural defects, movement disorder, autoimmune disorders, stroke, and an imbalance in neurotransmitters.

Diagnosis

Psychological evaluation, physical exam, CT scan, MRI, etc.

Management

There is a wide range of treatment options available for neurologic disorders as well as psychiatric disorders that vary from disease to disease.

Prevention

Exercise, adequate sleep, avoiding drugs and alcohol, learning stress management and relaxation techniques, and social engagement may help in prevention.