[Gadfly20]

I called today to make a visit to a pysch visit. I have GAD, insomnia, depression

[Leed]

Gosh, my first visit was SO long ago, I'm trying to remember what it was like. LOL

I guess I gave my psych a brief history of my life, and why I was there (depression) and he started asking some questions, which helped immensely. And I guess we just took it from there. I felt pretty comfortable, because I was REALLY open to it -- I really wanted to talk, and get stuff OUT. I'd been keeping things bottled up for so long, that it felt good to talk to someone about it.

It helps to have a psych who is sensitive to the fact that you may be uncomfortable at your first visit too -- so hopefully yours will "help you out." Best of luck and let us know how it goes. Hugs, Lee

[Mogeii]

What to expect is : 5-10 minutes autobiography session with him. 5 Minutes of symptom explanations. 5 Mins of med discussion. 5 Mins of "we will get you better". Then a script or two and on your way.

What I wish I did and what I do now every visit: Talk about how your feeling, and if he gives you a diagnosis you dont agree with, let him know. Example my psych said that for someone with major depression I seemed to be able to laugh at myself too much, so he wanted to start bipolar II treatment. I told him No I dont have any manic or hypomanic symptoms. 2 Months later he tells me I was right. Also talk about how your psych approaches these illnesses. Mine for instance is a big believer in SSRI/SNRI + CBT, but doesn't think any of the diet/holistic approaches are worth a ****. That's just his way of doing things. Most important thing I would say is, every visit with your psych will probably feel a bit incomplete. You will always go back and rethink what you did or didnt say and the meds you were given. Just remember that every visit is a step toward feeling better. Trial and Error is really the only answer to this stuff :/. Remember be honest, dont be afraid to ask questions/disagree, and remember HE WORKS FOR YOU. If you aren't happy with what hes throwing at you it is your right and to be honest your duty to let him/her know.

[carebirdy]

Good for you for taking an important step on the way to wellness. Good luck.