2006-09-18 01:39:46 · 11 answers · asked by Me 2 in Health ➔ Mental Health
I don't have a family doctor...I would just have to find one by the phone book or something
2006-09-18 01:49:14 · update #1
If you are having serious feelings of depression or despondancy it is best to seek a doctor who specializes in these kinds of conditions. A good counselor can often be as helpful.
For a very useful discussion of depression and mental health see the Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine (Murray and Pizzorno) which has a lot of expert info and excellent advice. Let's Get Well by Adelle Davis also has some good chapters on diet and mind which you might find useful.
Good luck and God bless!
2006-09-18 01:54:08 · answer #1 · answered by Mad Roy 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It always scares me a little when people automatically equate depression with need for medication. yes, sometimes you might need medication but more often than not (depending on your circumstances) a counselor or a psychologist is just as effective in helping someone through a depression as medication. The upside of a therapist is that they can help you learn tools and techniques to take with you in to the world and help you look at and deal with things differently in the future. Simply taking medication does not give you tools for the future and thus does not prevent relapses (unless you just want to stay on meds forever- even then they may only work to a point).
I understand our system is set up so that it is easier (and cheaper in most cases) to get medication but I personally feel it is prescribed way too often- and by the way general practitioners receive VERY LITTLE training in the area of mental health and medications.
All this being said you still do need to let someone know that you are feeling this way and the GP is usually the first person you can talk to. Just please ask about all the different options you have- medication is only one.
2006-09-18 12:28:25 · answer #2 · answered by Sue P 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sure you can. My primary care provider was the one who prescribed Welbutrin XL for me when I lost my first wife in a car accident. Bear in mind, however, that some primary care providers can't or won't prescribe depression medication depending on the laws of your state or their local AMA guidelines. You should still see your primary care provider first though. Even if he/she can't give you the meds, you'll still need a referral to see a psychologist or therapist.
2006-09-18 08:44:20 · answer #3 · answered by sarge927 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes you can. it would be preferable for mental health issues if you had a family doctor cos he'd know you and could make a more informed decision about your mental state, but in principle any doctor will do. if he thinks your issues are beyond his scopes as a gp he'll be able to point you to a specialist.
2006-09-18 09:05:47 · answer #4 · answered by nerdyhermione 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your personal doctor is the one to see first. He/she can prescribe medication and, if necessary, refer you to someone for therapy. Good luck!!
Chow!!
2006-09-18 08:49:15 · answer #5 · answered by No one 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Of course...going to your own doctor is probably better tho as he might know you and your history and suggest the best thing for you...
2006-09-18 08:48:09 · answer #6 · answered by Saskia M 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your family physician is the best person to talk to.
They can offer med's or send you where you need to be!!!
Good Luck
2006-09-18 08:48:56 · answer #7 · answered by keithurban4eva 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, you can ask your family Dr for help. That is who treats me for depression and OCD.
2006-09-18 08:48:08 · answer #8 · answered by Turtle 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Go to any general practicioner, they can prescribe something non-addictive like celepram.
2006-09-18 08:56:07 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
only a phd
2006-09-18 08:44:12 · answer #10 · answered by scott r 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋