Psychiatrist salary

Salary and Work as a Psychiatrist

Working as a psychiatrist means being a specialist doctor focusing on diagnosing and treating mental illnesses and disorders. The profession requires a deep understanding of both medical and psychological aspects of mental health, and it is common for psychiatrists to work in both the public and private sectors.

Salary Statistics for Psychiatrists

The average salary for a psychiatrist in Sweden is 92 200 kronor per month. There is a slight difference in salary between genders, with men earning an average of 93 800 kronor and women 90 800 kronor. This means that women earn 97% of what men do in the same profession. Compared to the previous measurement, the average salary has increased from 86 400 kronor to 92 200 kronor, indicating a positive salary development.

Education and Qualifications

To become a psychiatrist, a medical degree is first required, which involves about 5.5 years of university studies. This is followed by a general internship (AT) of about 18-24 months. After the AT internship, one must undergo a specialist training in psychiatry, which takes an additional 5 years. In total, it takes around 12-13 years to become a qualified psychiatrist.

Job Duties

Psychiatrists work on diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental illnesses. This includes conducting psychiatric assessments, prescribing medications, offering psychological treatment and support, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals such as psychologists and nurses. Many psychiatrists also specialize in specific areas such as child and adolescent psychiatry, forensic psychiatry, or addiction medicine.

Work Environment and Conditions

The work environment for psychiatrists varies depending on the workplace. Many work in hospitals, psychiatric clinics, or private practices. The workload can be high, especially in emergency care and forensic psychiatry. Flexibility and the ability to handle stress are important qualities to thrive in the profession. Many employers also offer benefits such as paid training and conferences, providing opportunities for continuous professional development.

Requirements for Getting a Job

There is a high demand for psychiatrists in Sweden, which means good opportunities for employment after completing the education. There is particularly high demand in child and adolescent psychiatry and forensic psychiatry. To increase chances of getting a job, it may be advantageous to gain experience through internships or substitute positions during education. Good communication skills and the ability to work in a team are also important qualities sought by employers.