[googley]

I was wondering if anyone has advice on how to tell a PCP about PTSD.

I have a new resident who I went to see last week and ended up freaking out when she went to examine me. (I hate being touched as it causes flashbacks.) I was just expecting to get some test results back but that was not what happened and so I was not prepared. Given the medication I am on she knows I have mental health issues, but the discussion of my medical history (for some reason?) did not include any questions about my mental health. The reason I am asking is because the time I told my last resident about my SA she practically ran from the room as fast as she could and didn't look back. While my new resident seems to have a much better bed side manner than my last one, and totally picked up that I was freaking out, I am scared to have the same reaction again. It is hard enough to talk about, but then when I have to deal with these reactions from someone who it seems should be trained just makes it harder the next time.

Thanks for advice.

[Sad In TX]

I would suggest then that you make a statement about this bothering you and that they should be writing this down in your file. There isn't any reason why they shouldn't have it in there already, especially if they are aware of your mental health issues.

Just spit it out and tell them. You don't have to go through any details; just tell them that you need someone who is empathetic to someone who is suffering from PTSD, and that what they will do to you while visiting should be said in detail so you can at least prepare yourself for what they do. If you liked that particular resident, then I would request that person again if you can.

You have every right as a patient to let your doctor know what makes you comfortable and what doesn't without having to disclose too many details, but specify that you are getting help for it (right?). You need to know what they are doing, what they plan to do and have them describe what they do before they do it if you don't understand what or why. I think by letting them know what your needs are, the more comfortable and empowered you will feel about your health care.

[phoenix7]

sad in tx has said it well - let them know what is bothering you - then they can treat you in an appropriate manner - you have the right to feel as comfortable as possible with any health professional and they should be able to handle it - maybe the last one had issues of their own - dont worry about them - look after yourself

I just went through this. It's really tough.

My PCP sent me to a specialist to set up a test that I did not want to have, but needed because of some suspicious test results.

I knew I needed to tell the specialist because I'd be freaking out, and being "so far" into therapy I figured I could handle it. I finally got up the guts to tell her and she totally blew it off and acted like I never even spoke. She kinda of giggled nervously, and moved on. I was furious and very upset.

I made an appointment to see my PCP just to talk to her about it because I needed to know how serious the issue was and if there was any other way to deal with it because I had issues with abuse. I didn't want to get into any details, but for me to say that to two doctors within one week was HUGE for me.

I finally had to write something down on paper that explained why I was freakin' out. She read it and gave me a big hug and said "we'll figure something out."

Whew.