Rosh Psychiatry Board Practice Exam

Under which condition would you most likely refer a patient to a psychiatrist?

1. Severe depression

2. Mild anxiety

3. Situational stress

4. Common cold

The correct answer is: Severe depression

Referring a patient to a psychiatrist for severe depression is based on the understanding that this condition often requires more specialized interventions and treatment options. Severe depression can significantly impair a person's functioning and quality of life, leading to complications such as suicidal ideation or risk of self-harm. Psychiatrists can assess and manage severe depression comprehensively, which may include a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy tailored specifically to the patient's needs. In contrast, mild anxiety and situational stress typically do not necessitate psychiatric referral. These conditions may often be managed effectively with psychotherapy from a general practitioner or a psychologist and may not require medication or intensive psychiatric intervention. A common cold, being a physical ailment, is outside the realm of psychiatric conditions, and thus would not warrant referral to a psychiatrist.