what should i be saying? what should i expect?, should i demand treatment? should i explain everything about my symptoms? then if i do, what should i be expecting from my psychiatrist?...if i dont get a diagnosis, at the evaluation what should i do?
2006-11-02 02:44:01 · 8 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Mental Health
This is a great question! A psychiatrist will want to hear about your symptoms, how long they've been going on, whether you always have the same symptoms or if they change, whether you're seeing any type of counselor or psychotherapist or if you'd be open to that, and what your support network is like (family, friends, etc.). Usually the first session with the Dr. is longer than check-ups so that they can get enough information to try to make a diagnosis. If s/he feels you need medication, they'll perscribe it for you and explain how to take it. You should ask about the side effects, and you should be very honest about any other medicines or drugs that you take, including alcohol, because that can be very important. They might recommend some other types of therapy.
The most important thing you can do is to be honest. The Dr. isn't there to judge you in any way, but is there to help you!
Best of luck to you!!!
2006-11-02 02:53:15 · answer #1 · answered by phillipa_gordon 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
On your first visit you will be asked a lot of questions. This is called taking a history. You may explain your own symptoms or the doctor may ask you outright. They will give you some ideas about what might be wrong. They may suggest you do some psychological testing or even so some lab work. The doctor or therapist may not be able to make a diagnosis at the first visit. Like ANY illness, they may want to look at several possibilities before labeling you with a diagnosis. Do not let this upset you.
If you are seeing a physician (psychiatrist, neurologist, family doctor) they may try you on a medication regardless if they are able to make a definitive diagnosis. Social workers and psychologists are not doctors btw.
Relax, your doctor will know what to do, but if you have some specific questions, be sure and write them down. AND, yes, you do have a right to ask questions and to KNOW your diagnosis and treatment plan and goals. A really good doctor will ask you to participate in planning treatment and setting goals.
2006-11-02 12:36:47 · answer #2 · answered by Dust in the Wind 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You are going to have to be patient, as well as be *a* patient. Rarely is a diagnosis rendered on a single visit. Depending on what you tell the psychiatrist, you may receive medications after the first visit, but psychiatric care is an ongoing process. So much depends on how you and the psychiatrist interact. Be open and truthful, compliant with the therapy and don't expect miracles.
2006-11-02 10:49:51 · answer #3 · answered by finaldx 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
RELAX!!! Just go see the doctor, be HONEST and TRUTHFUL and answer all their questions to the best of your ability. This isn't something you can pass or fail, it;s just something to go and do, you can't get it WRONG.
They will ASK you about your symptoms, they will ASK you about how you feel and they will ASK you if there is anything else you need or want to share.
if you go in there frantically trying to spit out all the words you think they need to hear, you aren't doing yourself any favors. You might not get a diagnosis right away. The doc might determine that you need a few tests before they can diagnose you, so RELAX and follow their instructions, get your tests done and be thankful you have taken the first step to getting help.
2006-11-02 11:04:02 · answer #4 · answered by KB 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Well just say what is going on and what you think you need help with. And make sure you are comfortable with the psych. b/c if you dont feel comfortable with the person you arent going to get the help you need... and all it is , is talking so just try to relax and just breathe i know it can be a little "scary" and just make you nervous and a diagnosis doesnt always come in the first session actually it usually never does... but just go in and explain yourself completely...... and yea
2006-11-02 10:49:14 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your first appointment will be basically the Doctor asking you questions..its called an intake. He/she may recommend and prescribe medication and or therapy. You may not get a definite diagnosis but you will get an idea of the game plan.
Be sure to mention all of your symptoms regardless how small you may think they are. The doctor is there to help you...Take full advantage of that. You will be OK.
2006-11-02 10:48:53 · answer #6 · answered by Steph 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Just be honest with you feelings.
2006-11-02 10:51:55 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
ya just relax
2006-11-02 12:08:20 · answer #8 · answered by native,pride 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋