I just thought about this today, as my back went out and I can only walk hunched over like an old lady. This is nothing I'd see a doctor for at this point anyway, but it got me thinking:

I'm always worried that when I go to the doctor, all they will see is my mental illness. It doesn't help that I have tons of old scars on my body. I'm paranoid that I will seem like I'm drug seeking or just have mental problems.

Will they think my complaint or concern is just in my head because I have BP and suicide attempt in my chart? Will they take me seriously? My primary care doc I don't worry about. He's great. But others I'm concerned.

I had abdominal pain for months and finally went to the doctor. I had held off because I was worried that it wasn't really a problem and that the gyn would think I'm overreacting. It ended up being a severe problem and I had to have a hysterectomy.

I just worry that all people see is my mental illness.