Psychiatrist?

Question

Sometimes I feel like I want to talk to a psychiatrist. However, I feel like if I ask people will look at me differently or fear that there is something wrong with me. I don't think there is anything seriously wrong with me, I just stress a lot about normal problems. Should I try a psychiatrist, or should I confide more in a friend? I worry that some of the things I say to my friend will change her opinion of me. What shoul I do?

Sorry everyone, I meant psychologist. I got the two mixed up.

Answer 1

Don't worry about how you will appear if you see a psychologist. It's good to talk about things and get them out of your system before it does become a serious problem. If you don't want people to look at you differently, don't mention it. I always referred to my appointments just as "doctor appointments". Most people respect medical privacy so they don't inquire further.

Answer 2

See a psychologist first. A psychiatrist prescribes drugs mainly and doesn't get into talking too much. A psychologist will spend an hour or so with you just talking about what you want. It is very helpful to have someone to go to that will not judge you and will just listen and offer helpful suggestions. I see one every week and it has improved my life. Don't feel as if they will look at you funny, that is what they are there for, to listen to peoples' problems. Thousands and thousands of people see psychologists, that's why there are so many. Don't put off seeing one if you think you need it. Even if you're not sure, just make an appointment and see what they say, you'll feel better.

Answer 3

See a counselor not a psychiatrist. Psychiatrists are medical doctors that prescribe meds and usually work with severely mentally ill. Friends are good. Sometimes journaling will help as well.

Answer 4

I would suggest you see either a counselor or a therapist. Both are great options. Sometimes local churches have counselors that you can see for free. Just a thought.

I saw a therapist (has a master's degree in psychology) and she really helped me through some issues. It was a very positive experience. Sometimes we just need someone else to help us straighten some things out in our lives....there's nothing wrong with that:)

Best Wishes,
J

Answer 5

actually you would do better to see a psychologist. as far as ive experienced, i see my psychiatrist for maybe 15 mins sometimes less than 5. i go in, he asks if my meds are fine, if i think i need more/less, and gives me a new appointment. if you need someone to talk to, you need a therapist. psychiatrists just tell you if you have mental issues that need medical attention other than you just needed to talk and get stuff off your chest.

Answer 6

try a therapist first. therapists help sort out what is stressing you in an impartial way and will suggest ways to offset whatever is stressing you. you should really only see a psychiatrist if it is suggested by your family doctor or your therapist that you may benefit from medication for anxiety or something

Answer 7

I really encourage you to consider setting an appointment with a psychologist. You certainly don't need to share that decision with friends or colleagues, unless you are comfortable doing so.

Bottom line: what have you got to lose?

You may be very pleasantly surprised at the benefits that quality psychotherapy can provide.

Best of luck to you,
~M~

Answer 8

If you have a very close friend in terms of knowing each other, my recommendation would be to talk with him/her, before anyone else. Friends outside of that sense of security (the good friend), ask indirect questions about little things that are botherin ya in place of spilling your whole life story to friend(s), or just simply tell them what YOU want them to hear, not what they want to here, and if your lucky, maybe one of the questions or statements might strike a nerve in someone, and it could lead to a one on one conversation in regards to whatever it is your going through, which is cool cause you most likely just met someone you feel comfortable with, which later will probably turn into a friendship. Also too, when talkin to your friends, don't wear em out, you know, they too, probably have issues and stress that they have, added stress could bring extra stress to everyone and uncomfortable vibes. If you really feel like you are unable to function correctly during the day cause of what on your mind, then seeing somebody would be a good thing. Psychologist are part-time friends, and are really not as effective as good friends who actually care about you, psychologist are pretty much good for drugs, but if you really are unable to talk with no one else, a psychologist is a choice as well. Do what ya gotta do, good luck!!

By the way, whats with negativity from below? I swear it wasn't me, ight..........? BAM!!