Psychology is the study of the human mind and its functions, especially those affecting behaviour in particular situations.  Psychology is the scientific study of how people behave, think and feel. Psychologists study everything about the human experience from the basic workings of the human brain to consciousness, memory, reasoning and language to personality and mental health.

Psychologists are experts in human behaviour, having studied the brain, memory, learning, human development and the processes determining how people think, feel, behave and react. Psychologists apply their expertise using reliable and scientifically supported methods. Psychological treatments are widely used to assist individuals and families and can also help groups and organisations.

A psychologist can help you work through such problems and help people of all ages live happier, healthier and more productive lives. Psychologists apply scientifically validated procedures to help people develop healthier, more effective habits.
 

When should I see a psychologist?

Your mental health is one of the most important factors in determining the quality of your life.
With good mental health you can handle day-to-day events and obstacles, work towards important goals, and function effectively in society. However, even minor mental health problems may affect everyday activities to the extent that you cannot function as you would wish, or are expected to, within your family and community.

A psychologist will help one gain a new perspective, new ways of thinking about the world and themselves, new ways of behaving, and a place to vent.

Psychologists work directly with individuals on issues such as:

• Anxiety, depression and other mood disorders
• Personality disorders
• Terminal illness or other medical disorders
• Drug, alcohol, and gambling addictions
• Eating disorders
• Self-esteem and body issues
• Grief related disorders
• Intellectual or developmental disorders
• Relationship and family breakdown
• Any other mental health issues across the life-span

Psychotherapy

- Helps people with psychological problems that have built up over the course over a long period of time.
- It helps people understand their feelings, thoughts and actions more clearly.
- Psychotherapy is a longer-term process of treatment that identifies emotional issues and the background to problems and difficulties.
- Psychotherapy intensively and extensively examines a person’s psychological history.