Cordy B. McGill-Scarlett, MD, has the kind of presence that immediately draws you in—his calm demeanor and thoughtful insights reveal a man deeply passionate about his craft. There’s an unshakable sense of purpose in the way he speaks about his journey, as if each challenge he’s faced has only sharpened his focus and fueled his desire to serve others. From the moment he sat down with the VBD Magazine team, it was clear that his story went beyond just medicine. His life reflects faith and the power of perseverance, making him not only a remarkable psychiatrist but also an inspiring human being.
Behind his quiet humility lies an incredible story. Dr. McGill-Scarlett treats mental health, but he also understands being on the patient side of the equation. Having endured his own battle with a chronic disease, he knows firsthand the struggles of navigating both physical and emotional health. This unique perspective sets him apart, allowing him to connect with his patients on a deeper level, transforming their healing journeys with compassion and care.
A PATH OF RESILIENCE
Dr. McGill-Scarlett’s life journey began in the suburbs of Atlanta, GA, before moving with his family to Parkland, Florida, where he completed high school. From there, he set his sights on Florida State University for undergraduate studies, then pursued both a master’s degree and medical school at the same institution. It was during medical school that Dr. McGill-Scarlett discovered his passion for psychiatry—a field he initially knew little about but quickly realized was his true calling. “I remember my first rotation in psychiatry,” he recalls. “I walked in very nervous, but what surprised me was how familiar and every day the patients were. These were people like your neighbor or the lunch lady, all facing mental health challenges. I realized this was a space where I could truly help people during some of the most trying times in their lives.”
His fascination with psychiatry grew as he saw the rapid and sometimes miraculous changes in patients who received proper treatment, especially when starting medication. This immediate impact drew him in. “Sometimes you’ll see that turnaround overnight. It’s amazing to watch someone transform, and I knew then that this was where I could make a difference,” he says.
PSYCHIATRY VERSUS PSYCHOLOGY
Many confuse psychiatry with psychology, but Dr. McGill-Scarlett clarifies the difference. “Psychiatry is the medical side of mental health—we’re trained in psychotherapy and can prescribe medications. Psychology, on the other hand, focuses purely on therapy without the medical background. Psychiatry also deals with substance withdrawal and crisis management, which further differentiates the two fields,” he explains.
Dr. McGill-Scarlett works primarily with adults, offering care through outpatient settings, often via telemedicine. His patient population is diverse, ranging from young adults to the geriatric community, and he emphasizes the importance of tailoring care to individual needs. “Mental health doesn’t discriminate—it affects people from all walks of life. My job is to meet my patients where they are and help them live as full and functional a life as possible,” he says.
THE STIGMA IN MENTAL HEALTH
One of Dr. McGill-Scarlett's primary goals is addressing the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in communities of color. “Media plays a significant role in perpetuating stigma, and many people only seek help when they’re already at a tipping point,” he notes. “In African American, Latino, and Asian communities, mental health isn't always taken seriously until it's too late.”
To combat this, Dr. McGill-Scarlett actively speaks at community events, churches, and with groups of men of color to promote early intervention and awareness. “I focus on educating people about the symptoms of depression and mental health conditions so that they can recognize the signs in themselves or their loved ones before it becomes critical,” he says. “It’s about shifting the narrative and showing that mental health care is not something to fear but a path to a healthier life.”
DEPRESSION AND MENTAL ILLNESS
Depression doesn’t look the same for everyone, and Dr. McGill-Scarlett is keen on breaking down its symptoms to help individuals identify the condition. “For most, depression affects sleep, causes loss of interest in activities, induces feelings of guilt and worthlessness, and disrupts concentration and appetite,” he explains. He emphasizes that early detection and treatment are key to preventing more severe outcomes like hospitalization or involuntary psychiatric care.
He also addresses common misconceptions, such as the belief that mental illness equates to violence. “People with mental illness aren’t inherently dangerous. There’s no higher rate of aggression among individuals with mental illnesses than in the general population,” he says. “Education is crucial in dispelling these harmful stereotypes.”
award, every accolade is a reminder of God’s promises. They’re not just achievements; they’re gifts from Him.”
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