Why is my doctor trying to fob me off, and saying I have anxiety when I still have all the problems of depression? I feel helpless!

[Mist]

[Getting-By]

Hi Mist

Sorry that you feel that you have been fobbed off by your doctor, Could you change doctors? Depression and anxiety to seem to go hand in hand sometimes. In the past I have had to change doctors as I have felt the same thing about being fobbed of I also asked to be refered to the mental health team.

[Action-On-Depression]

Hi Mist,

Yeah, they do often go hand in hand, but it sounds like you feel that depression is much more of an issue for you than anxiety. One way of looking at just how much difference there is for you is to do a PHQ9 and GAD7 Questionnaire which you can do at phqscreeners.com/. Certainly many people who contact us have both, but occasionally the anxiety will be much much higher. These screenings are used by the NHS and GP Practices to ascertain depression and anxiety. You could print out your scores and take them to another GP to chat about?

Catherine

[maekeira]

I feel the same way. I did have anxiety yes but opposite to what my doctor said i think it was depression induced anxiety. I'm on anti d's especially for anxiety and ocd like symptoms and although they've helped i just feel like a more mouthy scared alone and still extremely depressed in myself. Go back asap and say straight forward it's a mental condition it's my body and i know this isn't working for me.

[Getting-By]

Hi Mist

How you feeling today? I think Catherine gave some good advice about using the questionnaires so that you can take them to your next appointment with your doctor. It is important to get a doctor that you feel comfortable confiding in and that you also feel supported.

[Amy01]

Fortunately, a lot of anti-depressants can also help ease anxiety as well, so I would say this would be your best option really. Also, try to make a note of your triggers. What gets you most stressed, and try to work out why. It seems an obvious thing to do, but if you can help understand the thoughts and feelings you have about things that make you anxious, then you're halfway to solving the problem. If you don't succeed with you GP, I would try to get some counselling, as they can help ease your mind just by helping you explore your inner self.

Amy x

[Amy01]

PS-you are always entitled to ask for a second opinion from your doctors surgery, or practice.