what should i expect when i go see my psychiatrist?

Question

im adamant that i want a diagnosis so it can point the way forward for treatment for me.......should i go there expecting a diagnosis? if im unhappy with the meds ive been on for a year, should i expect that the psychiatrist change them? ive not seen in my view very understanding psychiatrists in the past, and im very apprehensive about this appointment, expecting not to get what i want.....should i simply explain my symptoms and go along with what he says. or should i go to the appointment demanding therapy a diagnosis and medication?

Answer 1

I personally have never been to a psychiatrist, but my mother has. You need to give the new one the benefit of the doubt, maybe he's better than the others. Explain to him what your problems are, why you think you have problems, why you haven't had good results in the past and that you have concerns. If he is good, he will listen and tell you that he can, or maybe he can't, help you. Don't be afraid to ask for further treatment if he thinks it is necessary. We ended up putting my mother in the hospital for two weeks, come to find out, her medications she was on for health reasons were causing her to act the way she was, not that there was anything wrong with her. It took that much time for them to watch her and do extensive lab work to find this out. Some people can handle some meds and some people can't. What will work for someone may not work for you. Let the doctor guide you and help you. Good luck and lots of hugs from me to you.

Answer 2

Expect that you need to be assertive in making your needs, wishes, concerns, and questions known. Many psychiatrists move patients quickly in and out. They prescribe medication, but usually do not perform therapy.

So, my suggestion is that you thoroughly discuss any questions, concerns, or needs with your psychiatrist and do not let him rush you out the door. If you are not happy with your meds, tell him so and why. Your psychiatrist should be able to give you a diagnosis as well, although he may not tell you it unless you ask. You should also ask your psychiatrist to refer you to a good therapist who will do therapy and can also help you gain a better understanding of yourself and your diagnosis.

Good luck!

Answer 3

I have never had much luck with psychiatrists either. Mostly all they care about is medication. I stopped going to them and had my general doctor take control of my medication. However, I see a therapist that has helped me tremendously! Give the new one the benefit of the doubt. Diagnoses don't come fast though. They need to talk to you figure out what's going on. I understand how anxious you are to get help, but be patient!

Answer 4

Excellent question! You have also been given some good advice.
First, you are the consumer. You may not like the Dr.'s dx, or his meds, and he often can't tell you his dx because it is contrary to dealing with the problems and you may have to accept that. But if you don't like his manner, that's another issue. I don't like being a number. Treat me with some compassion and respect and I'll treat you the same, act like a bean counter and you can forget counting me in.
Second. If you are unhappy with your meds you have to determine why. More meds are out every day, and the days of over medication are fading. Are the meds to strong, leaving you somewhat unfeeling to highs & lows? Are they to weak in your opinion, leaving you more to deal with than you anticipated? Worse yet, sometimes anti-D's, and other meds, lose effectiveness for no apparant reason, do your meds seem ineffective, as if you might as well be taking vitamins? In the first and last cases, a change of meds may be called for. If you seem to have to deal with more than you want, you may need to add a Psychologist to the mix. Then you can learn some tools to use in dealing with your problems. Remember, a good psychiatrist doesn't want to turn you into a zombie, he wants to be sure you are not a threat to yourself and others. A good psychologist can help you figure out the way that is best for you in dealing with problems.
Third. NO SUGARCOATING. Don't lie about the problems and don't lie about the psychiatrist's proposed solutions. If you don't tell the truth about your symptoms, your problems, your reaction to your meds, and even how you feel about proposed solutions, you aren't being fair to yourself, let alone the Dr. If he says he's just going to bump up the dosage, and you feel that the side effects are already too pronounced - TELL HIM. Same if he suggests a new med. Ask to see some info on the side effects and how the drug works, there may be a reason you don't want to take that one, just to turn around later unhappy with the new sides.
I've seen good & bad Dr.'s during my years of dealing with depression. I've been dx'd with HCV (hepatitis C) now though and that adds a new dimension. I won't waste time with some Dr. telling me how to live my life, by either making me a zombie, or by micromanaging my life and then saying that I put myself under to much stress. Easiest response is " Gee, Doc. I've got a disease the often develops cancer and could go from fine to dead in under 6 months. And you sit here telling me that other **** is causing to much stress? Can you refer me to one of your collegues?" That's how I came to my present Psychiatrist. He has told me openly that he is gathering insights into stress management for others who could die similarly. Anurisms, brain tumors, etc. he is very helpful and open. He gains, I gain, and others who have such a strong uncontrollable stressor gain.
It's up to you, don't be hostile, but nothing wrong with being assertive about your right to treatment. You don't have to take whatever they dish out. Find one that will take the time to answer your questions in a way you clearly understand. If they can't even do that what chance have they got to understand and treat you in your own best interests? Good luck and good shopping. Find the right one.

Answer 5

Don't go there expecting anything. Their job is to get into your head. You have to let them in. If you go there with expectations that is like putting up a wall. Talk to them about what your concerns are, Tell them what is on your mind, but also answer any questions they might have honestly. Don't tell them what you think they want to hear. You have to be honest or they can't help you.

Answer 6

If it were me I personally would want to be informed of the Scientific Facts behind the Anything that I would be putting into my body...and what it may do to me and any side effects etc...
Sincerely....before you go...I HIGHLY recommend watching the video below it's about 5 mins.....
Good luck

Answer 7

You can " Interview "Psychcologists. You don't have to go to the first one you see. They all want your business. Remember , you are a customer.