They certainly can. It's a matter of finding the right medications for the individual. Farmergirl is right that the psychiatrist would mostly likely try antidepressants first. When antidepressants worked for my depression and anxiety, it was really spectacular. But they also tended to poop out on me. I've ultimately had more sustained success with Lamictal, which is a mood stabilizer, combined with a low dose of Abilify, which is an antipsychotic. Definitely bring your questions to your doctor.