Preparing Yourself For A Long Hospital Stay

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Tips For Your First Appointment With A Psychiatrist

Health & Medical Blog

If you're struggling with mental health, there is a good chance you'll benefit from seeing a psychiatrist. These medical doctors specialize in treating disorders of the brain and mind, from depression to schizophrenia. There is no shame in seeing a psychiatrist. It's no different than seeing an orthopedist if you were to break a bone. Still, there are a few tips you should follow the first time you make an appointment.

Be Honest

It can be tempting to downplay your mental illness or what's bothering you. In fact, you may already be used to doing so around family members or friends. But in order to effectively treat you, the psychiatrist needs to know the whole of your symptoms and what's ailing you. The most important thing you can do is be honest. Your psychiatrist is not judging you, and they won't think less of you based on your responses. 

Take Notes

Your psychiatrist will typically spend a lot of time listening to you during this first visit. But they will likely give you some feedback and advice, too. Since you may be stressed out or overwhelmed when you're in their office, it is easy to miss key points of this advice. So, bring along a notepad so you can take notes as the psychiatrist speaks. This way, you don't have to worry about remembering every little detail. You just have to remember to write down the details; you can read them over later when you're calmer.

Don't Expect an Instant Diagnosis

Sometimes, people visit the psychiatrist expecting an instant diagnosis. When they don't get it during that first appointment, then they get frustrated and don't come back again. It's important that you don't do this. Understand that psychiatry is a process. The doctor may need to have a few sessions with you before they are able to make a definitive diagnosis or recommend specific treatment plans. For now, do what is advised after this first appointment, and then make another — if recommended. Good psychiatrists take their time to really get to know you and your symptoms, rather than making a snap judgment.

Seeing a psychiatrist is a big step for most people. It is a step in the direction of finally addressing things that have been bothering you and finding a solution. Follow the tips above as you navigate your first appointment, and things should look up from there.

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14 July 2022