Posted by caroline on April 10, 2000, at 15:58:05
In reply to What should I expect from Psychiatrist, posted by NikkiT on April 10, 2000, at 13:31:30
Nikki,
I'm also in the UK. Well done for finally getting a referal!!! I had anxieties very similar to those you have shared when I got my first referal. I thought 'What if I have a good day?' 'What if he/she talks me into thinking I'm exaggerating it all' etc. Take it from me, the fact you actually got a referal in the UK means they will assume you have a very real and serious problem before they even meet you - regardless of whether your appointment is on a 'good day'. Go in there prepared to tell him/her exactly how you feel on the worst days, the pretty bad days, the can-just-about-cope days and the good days. Make sure they have a full picture, not just of how you are suffering but also of how this suffering is affecting your ability to live your every-day life effectively.
The Dr should listen and ask questions of you. They may suggest a diagnosis or two. They should then move on to discussing the various treatment options with you - drugs (if so, which?), counselling, psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy. British Psychiatrists, in my experience, play quite a different role to US Psychiatrists. In the UK, don't expect any kind of talking therapy from your Psychiatrist - they should refer you to a psychologist or therapist if this is a treatment option you are keen to try.
I hope it all goes well. Do let us know how you get on.
Take Care
Caroline
poster:caroline
thread:29523
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000401/msgs/29541.html