New and looking for advice!

[bananabreadhellyeah]

Hey guys! I’m new to HealthUnlocked and wanted to say that I am open to messages if anyone needs to talk!

I have been struggling with both depression and anxiety for years and lately my symptoms have gotten even worse. I reached out to a counseling center and have my first appointment next week! Does anyone have any advice on how to get the most out of counseling?

[Hb2003]

Hello welcome to this kind supportive community ☺️❤️ - Hiba

[bananabreadhellyeah in reply to Hb2003]

Thank you!!

[Hb2003 in reply to bananabreadhellyeah]

Your welcome ☺️🙏

[bananabreadhellyeah]

You’re right, thank you!

[Pinkie56]

How could I not love someone called bananabread? Advise? Hmm. Well don't be afraid to be honest even if you think its silly or unimportant. If its bothering you or it just pops into your head in the course of talking, then you need to say it out loud. They've heard it all. Don't worry about being judged.

[bananabreadhellyeah in reply to Pinkie56]

Yesss banana bread!! And thank you, that’s good advice!

[Pinkie56 in reply to bananabreadhellyeah]

do you ever put chocolate chips in your banana bread? Try it.

[bananabreadhellyeah in reply to Pinkie56]

Of course! The best

[Fruitsofspirit]

Welcome! Glad you have joined our group. I to have been dealing with depression and anxiety, plus I have COPD,, late stage. On comfortable care with hospices at home. I agree the older get it gets worst. Praying ue counseling goes good for you.

[Agora1 in reply to Fruitsofspirit]

Sending you a hug xx

[bananabreadhellyeah in reply to Fruitsofspirit]

Thank you so much, it means a lot! Praying for you as well ❤️

[SirGrits]

Hey bananabread, welcome aboard. Prayers your way and Godspeed.

[guynfl2chat]

I agree with the other respondents. Just be yourself and let it flow. Don't expect too.much from a first session because the therapist is really getting to know you and what is your reason for being there. In future sessions you will build on other discussions.

[Opportunity]

Your screenname gives me the same feelings as adorable puppy dogs. Bananabreadhellyeah, I recommend asking for homework if you are really motivated. Ask to learn. If the counselor makes you feel better with what they said, ask how they did that. I made significant strides when I added a huge dose of self-help to my regimen. I needed reassurance and validation from the counselor, but I ended up learning most of DBT and CBT on my own. My counselor became a checkpoint, instead of the end in and of itself. Keeping a journal... stuff like that. That’s just me. You do what works best for you.

[Pagan707]

Hi I suffer from fibro, diabeties and a few other odds and ends! Lol I think I have the pain under control with new meds in the form of Buprenorphine patches. But I am finding my moods a bit low so following you in counciling route soon. Have had some many years ago. My advice would be take it steady, be open and honest, perhaps jot down some points you want to cover if forgetful like me! Don’t expect overnight results, it’s a process and takes time but I believe talking therapy very effective. I love your name and shan’t forget it but I’m allergic to bananas! Lol please post how you get on.

[bananabreadhellyeah in reply to Pagan707]

Thank you!! I hope your counseling goes very well!

[Pagan707]

You too, mine is not to next month. It is two with the pain team one physio one psychologist but both by video phone! Bit odd for physio!