What’s going to a psychiatrist like..?

Hello

I finally had the courage to make an appointment with a psychiatrist. I’ve been considering this for a long time now for what I suspect is depression. The appointment is in a few hours, and I’ve been feeling really nervous and my heart’s been beating fast all day. I’m not sure I can do it, and I have no idea what to expect.

And I don’t feel like I’ll be able to tell her what’s on my mind accurately. I’m not very good with conversations to begin with.

What do I say/do?

I didn’t tell anyone about this and I’m going by myself so it’s kinda scary. Any help would be much appreciated. Thank you.

[Hidden]

The first session with a psychiatrist is usually the longest session you'll have and the most intimate in terms of questioning. What's going on, what's wrong, how are you feeling....I seriously answered how are you with okay...and the psychiatrist said, "No, seriously, what's going on?" Just practice going over what's going on...anxiety and the feelings you have or depression and the feelings you have. They'll ask follow up questions...and just take it like an interview. They know you're stressed out and will allow you to work through your answers. Just be honest and give the best answer you can. After that, they'll recommend a plan of medications or studies (like a sleep study) or even blood tests (rare, but sometimes). You'll likely get some medication and then you'll see them in a one to two weeks for a lot less time as they fiddle around with the dosages/medications. Occasionally the follow-ups will be a little more expansive, but mostly it's less about a "therapy session" and more about if the medications are working and how you're feeling on them.

Don't be scared, this is what they do...you can ask them questions back for clarification, but they'll be doing most of the questioning. They're professionals, so you really have nothing to fear. Just go in and get yourself taken care of and focus on positive outcomes. Like I said, practice and maybe jot down notes that you want to specifically bring up. What times of the day are you most depressed? What causes it? Anything traumatic in your past? These are questions they'll like answers to. Otherwise, really, it'll be okay. Bringing in a notepad of anything or everything you have going on will really help. If you can be specific, great, if not, don't worry. They know it's hard to put into words what we're feeling sometimes because there really isn't a great word They should be fairly kind and understanding as they deal with anxious, panicked, and depressed people....and more...on a daily basis.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Thank you, Patrick. This’s of great help to me and helped calm me down quite a bit.

I’ll try writing down some notes as you suggested, and I’ll go and hope for the best.

Thank you so much. 😄

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Absolutely I know it can be unnerving and hard to find your words when you get in there, but having a good dialogue in your mind paired with your notes, you'll knock this out of the park. No worries to be had and hopefully just some answers. And, if you're as lucky as I was, a nice comfy couch to sit in. Lol Let us know how it goes!

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Haha, I hope my luck is as good as yours, then. 🤞🏻😂

I will. 😄

[mz_rachel]

Hi my friend. I’ve been to therapy twice and stopped bc one it was expensive and two I felt like I didn’t get a good connection with her. Not to say seeing a psychiatrist is a waste of time bc what works for you may not work for someone else.

I know the feeling of being nervous bc it’s like going to school without knowing anybody at an unfamiliar place and not knowing what to say. Have an open mind and all you can do is be yourself. Try not to feel like you’re being judged bc it’s their job to help. And doing anything for the first time is nerve wrecking! So I completely understand how you feel. Let go and share from your heart.

[Hidden in reply to mz_rachel]

Hello ^^

Sorry it took me so long to reply. I did read your answer before I went to my appointment, and it honestly helped a lot and put me at ease. So thank you so much for taking the time to respond. I really appreciate it. 😄

And sorry to hear it didn’t quite work out for you. Hopefully you’ll be able to find something that works better for you.

[Tinka83]

It's not as bad as you think it's going to be! Mine was super helpful and really understanding and really got me back on track tell them what you think it's wrong and why as best you can and answer their questions honestly that will help you get to the bottom of things. They are there to help, good luck x

[Hidden in reply to Tinka83]

Thank you so much. 🙏🏻😄

[CCRae13]

I feel like it’s important to find someone you feel comfortable with. A lot of them have different approaches and I’ve talked to some that have rubbed me the wrong way and some that have been very welcoming and helpful. Either way they are all there to help don’t quit looking for what works for you. It takes courage to open up and find help.