[Psychiatry and psychotherapy on the internet. Current overview]

Abstract

The Internet is a fast growing medium, which is about to alter our all day life. Most impact is given to advantages of telemedicine to psychiatrists and psychotherapists as well as patients. After introduction of the essential features of the Internet practical aspects of medicine in Cyberspace for psychotherapists, psychiatrists and their patients are shown. Then, the general prohibition of advertisement for physicians is discussed on the bases of actual laws related to Internet activities. Relevant resources of medical information are shown with regard to the detailed facilities of using search engines. Highlighting opportunities and possible resources of medicine in cyberspace, it is made clear, that the rising interest in telemedicine on Internet is more than justified. Finally, some risks of virtual communication are visible. Important and mentioned Web-sites are listed at the end.