In this week’s episode of PsyQ, we explore psychiatry’s role in decreasing violence in America. While mental illness is often blamed for violent acts, research shows it accounts for only a small fraction of overall violence. Instead, substance use, social stressors, and access to firearms are far more influential. We discuss how psychiatrists can assess and mitigate risk, the limits of violence prediction, and how tools like red flag laws, crisis intervention teams, and public policy reforms can save lives. The episode highlights practical pearls for clinicians and trainees: focus on modifiable risks, document and act decisively when threats emerge, and embrace psychiatry’s dual role as healer and advocate for safer communities.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit upathak.substack.com