Getting help soon...

I might be going to a psychiatrist soon, if I can straighten our my insurance or figure out some other way to pay for it. But where do I start? I feel like depression is my biggest problem, but I also feel like I have some kind of anxiety. I have a family history of suicide, and I've thought about it myself. This has been going on for years, but only recently has it gotten so bad.

So when and if I go see someone, where do I even start? For a while I thought I might have had Bi-Polar, but I'm pretty sure now it is just depression. How do I even FIND a good psychiatrist? And can they really help that much? I feel like there isn't a whole lot anyone can do.

Hello, I surely hope your insurance does work out.
Especically when we have areas quite needed to be dealt with.

When searching for a new doctor I personally believe like anything else it is a trial and error thing.

How you feel about them, and if they can give you what you need. Working with you.

I know it's not easy the trial and error - For me... But it keeps me going the help I do get.

I don't know if this applies in your situation, but you might want to check whether your insurance plan discounts some of your co-pay costs if you use doctors/services from within a specified list of providers. Other than that, I guess it's down to trial & error & who you feel most comfortable working with.

For what it's worth, I'm probably in a similar boat as you. The symptoms have been with me in some form or other, for years - but at this point I'm a complete noob as far as potential diagnosis/treatment are concerned. So, you're definitely not alone.

Hey Red...

Where to start? First, if you have a primary MD, I would ask if they can give you a couple referrals. Once you get a couple names, you can do a google search on them and see what pops up. Whatever their credentials are, I would suggest going to their State Licensing Board (online) and verifying their license is in good standing. (This is a free service provide to the public). You can do a therapist search online too and find your own T's, or look in your phone book.

Once you have found a couple folks and verified their credentials, then begins the trial and error period. You make an appt and meet with them and, just like a pair of shoes, you try them on for size. It's like a job interview, and you're the employer. You can ask as many questions as you feel you need and give them a general overview of what's been going on for you. Then, depending on how you feel you connected with them and they connected with you, you can make a decision to meet with them again or try your next option.

As far as where to start in session.....Just tell them about what you've been experiencing. What symptoms do you have....are you fatigued, crying a lot, not eating/sleeping, or even just say "I feel depressed" and they will help get to the nitty-gritty.

Sometimes it takes time to find a T that works for you and sometimes you meet them straight off. However it works for you, I wish you the best. Just remember that you need to be your own advocate. If you feel that there is something strange going on that doesn't sit well with you, investigate it further or move on.

Take care!!

I didn't think of asking my regular doctor for a referral for some reason, but it seems kind of obvious now. I haven't seen him since October. He gave me anti-depressants that did nothing for me.

Well thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll keep it in mind.

RedCylon,

It might be a good idea, if you've been started on anti-depressants and found that they're not working, to go back to your doctor and tell him that. On top of different doctors and therapists, medication is also a trial and error thing. You may be able to either adjust the meds you're on, or try something new to help with some of your symptoms.

Good luck with everything. I hope it works out and you get the help you need.

This is great news! It is good for anyone to get Counseling. Even those who may not think they need it. I was one of those people that said "I don't need counseling", but now I know I do. Having had a Girlfriend who was in Counseling for quite a long time, she lets me in on some of the things they say and ask. I am not sure how to help with the financial part of it, but don't worry about what to say. When you begin, he/she will ask all the questions. My Ex didn't even answer all the questions, she was just too shy. Eventually I am sure she did, and I know you will too. I think this will be a big step towards living a better life. I wish you all the luck, and God Bless.

(((((RedCylon)))))

I agree with the advice given and think that this is a very good step. Knowing how depression is and the thoughts of suicide, getting the help you need is important. Finding someone you can trust and confide in is important. It can help you feel much more comfortable in talking. You will know if the person is right for you as you begin to talk.

Going back to your doctor about the meds that do not work is important. There are different meds that can work and you deserve to feel better. Please take care of yourself. You are worth it.

I hope that your insurance will come through for you. Keep looking and trying. There are answers out there. Please know that we care and are here to listen and support you. I think that this is a great move and will help you to feel better. Sometimes it takes a little time but you will find that person you feel comfortable talking to. And when it is time to start talking----you will know what to say.

I wish you all the luck and hope you feel better soon. Know we are here to support you and just be here for you when you need a freind.

dps

Well bad news about the insurance thing. It's gone, as in it is no longer an option at all. I'm still hoping to go soon, somehow. I do feel a lot better about going now though, so thanks to everyone for that.