Psychiatry and Neurology are two distinct but closely related medical specialties that deal with disorders of the brain and nervous system. While they often overlap in clinical practice, each has its own focus, methods, and subspecialties.

 Neurology: The Science of the Nervous System

Neurology focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases of the central and peripheral nervous systems, including the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles.

Key Subspecialties:

• Stroke and Cerebrovascular Disease

• Epilepsy

• Multiple Sclerosis

• Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders

• Headache and Migraine

• Neuromuscular Disorders (e.g., myasthenia gravis, ALS)

• Neurodegenerative Diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s)

• Neurogenetics

• Neuroimmunology

• Neuro-oncology

• Pediatric Neurology

• Sleep Neurology

Diagnostic Tools:

• MRI, CT scan, EEG, EMG

• Lumbar puncture

• Genetic and metabolic testing

 Psychiatry: The Science of Mental Health

Psychiatry deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. It integrates biological, psychological, and social approaches.

Key Subspecialties:

• General Adult Psychiatry

• Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

• Geriatric Psychiatry

• Addiction Psychiatry

• Forensic Psychiatry

• Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (hospital-based)

• Psychosomatic Medicine

• Mood Disorders (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder)

• Anxiety Disorders

• Psychotic Disorders (e.g., schizophrenia)

• Personality Disorders

• Eating Disorders

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders (e.g., autism, ADHD)

Treatment Modalities:

• Psychotherapy (CBT, DBT, psychoanalysis)

• Pharmacotherapy (antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers)

• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

• Behavioral interventions and rehabilitation