Feeling discouraged

[gretch28]

I finally went and spoke with a doctor about my anxiety and I was basically told that the things I’m going through are normal and that I should be happy because I’m a pretty girl...... it took so much courage for me to open up to a stranger and tell them my deepest troubles. Not being taken serious really hurts and I don’t know if I can go through that whole process again. I may never get help.

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Hi Gretch.

Firstly well done for going, it takes such a lot to open up . I’m sorry for how the gp dealt with the situation. Please don’t give up! Things with mental health have improved, although in my opinion lots of improvements still to be made, it can be a slow process. 😩

I had a similar thing 4 years ago when I first approached a dr he informed me it was woman problems .....and gave me some leaflets, oh how awful I felt that day...

I persevered , I waited a short while and made an appointment with another gp at the surgery, I wrote down what I was going to say, and I went in..the next time round a different dr a different response. Also I self referred online to NHS Talking therapies, you may wish to look them up in your area. I’m presuming you are uk based at this stage...you don’t need a dr to refer yourself and if you stick with it (there is a wait list depends on your area)they helped me understand and I was then in the system receiving help...don’t give up. It’s difficult I know, you deserve support, unfortunately we do have to push for it a little 😩

The one to one conversations I had with therapists really helped me understand such a lot, it does take time and patience for sure xxx

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Ps. If you look up talking therapies nhs self referrals and your area you should get the nhs site were you can self refer.

Initially the therapy was in the phone. The therapist was really nice. I persevered and eventually therapy was one to one face to face, the help I received really did help me to reach out ...the main thing was that I was in the system...

Best wishes xx

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Hello @gretch28

I am so sorry that you seemed to get a Doctor that has no clue about MH issues and this will make you feel like there is no hope but there is and please do not give up seeking it

You have had some really good advise from other members which I cannot really add anymore to but I would see another Doctor in the same surgery , tell them about this appointment and how much it took to come and open up and how you were left feeling and that you wan't support and taking seriously and hopefully they will , don't let this experience but you of I think we all have at least one bad experience with some Doctors if not more so you are not alone

I eventually found a really good Doctor and the only one I will see in my surgery and I am sure there will be a understanding Doctor in yours so keep seeing them all till you find them and we will do our best to try and support you

Take Care x

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Morning Gretch.

I do hope after gathering thoughts and resting. You can move forward again and reach out.

It’s worth it for sure.

Hope today is more peaceful for you and you gain strength enough to have courage again to reach out.

Best wishes x