I just made an appt with psychiatrist...what should I expect? what should I say and ask?

Question

My concerns...depression, anxiety attacks..cutting myself...losing jobs cause im not proactive enough...relationship is in the dump because i cant control my temper and moods...

Answer 1

If you aren't sure what you should ask don't worry. He/she will do most of the asking, unless you think of something you would like to ask.

But DO tell them all of the things you mentioned (cutting, anxiety attacks etc) even if they DON'T specifically ask you "Do you cut.." You should bring it up anyway. You won't get into any trouble for what you tell your psychiatrist.. and everything you say is confidential. Even your parents can't know what's said in that room.

Answer 2

Don't expect anything straight away, healing processes can take time. Just be honest and yourself there is no point going to a doctor and telling him you have trouble with your head when it is your feet that hurt. Also if you feel you are not getting the right advice try it first and then have a second opinion. Last piece of advice be carefull of their reliance on drugs as a long term option and read a wide variety of self help and anger management articles.

Answer 3

Usually the psychiatrist or their secretaries will have you fill out a lot of paperwork before being seen. Most of it is in concern with your insurance information, but there will be a questionnaire that will ask you all those questions about what you feel, you stress levels, anxiety levels, and health concerns. The psychiatrist will read this over completely and thoroughly before seeing you. Once he/she has done so they most likely will ask you questions pertaining your results of your questionnair, and from there it is not hard to get to the core of your distress.

Don't worry about figuring out what to say, tell, explain, or ask since the doctor should do all that. If you have a good councilor or psychologist they will do all the questioning necessary and all you even have to do is answer. The doctor will know what to ask in order to figure out the reason your there and the best solutions for you.

Good luck, be honest in your paperwork and you can be sure they will take care of you!

Answer 4

My gf started to see a psychologist by herself and it did wonders for our relationship. She was going through some things that she could not deal with on her own.

You could say the same things you did here. Tell him/her some of the problems you've been having and they should ask you questions that will enable you to seek some answers and perhaps provide you new insights. Just don't go in their lying. Be honest and truthful because the psychiatrist is going to get paid whether you are or not. So in the end, you will be just cheating yourself. I had a friend who saw a psychiatrist but held back many truths out of embarassment, which means the whole thing was a complete waste of time and money.

Answer 5

you'll expect a 50 min hour. and he/she will do most of the asking. but your job is to be as open and honest about your concerns and feelings. that way, he/she will have a better understanding of the situation and you may have faster progress.

if you feel like crying then let it out. it also helps in identifing what's hurting you.

Answer 6

just be honest with him/her. thats the best thing you can do. if you feel like crying cry, if you feel angry, show it (in a non threatening way). tell her the things you think, even the scary thoughts. be open. thats the only way they can help you.

Answer 7

Chances you will meet a nice pleasant concerned nonjudgemental person.  They will be trained to explore the concerns you have and support you while you make the changes you need to make your life better for you.

If you don't feel that way about your councilor you need to find another one.  Some people just don't click so find one you do'click' with.