Going to your doctor to talk about your mental health can seem like the most daunting thing ever. The fear of looking crazy, insane or just plain weird would stop anyone seeking the help they need. The fear that it's all just in your head, you're making it up, and there's nothing no one can do to help you, can make getting support from professionals challenging or even just simply sharing and talking about some of your deepest thoughts can be a challenge and make getting help, seem impossible.
But trust me, it's not. Talking to your doctor about your mental health is never going to be easy. Even after seeing my doctor, basically every month for around a year, I still find it incredibly hard to talk about my mental health sometimes. But what you have to realise is that getting help is one of the best ways you can get better and start getting your life back on track.
Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. In fact, it's one of the bravest things you can do. Your mental illness won't go on its own, most of the time they just get worse over time if you don't get the help you need, whether that be talking therapies such as CBT or medication. No one is going to think you are crazy, insane or mad. Realising something is wrong and getting help, is incredibly brave and something that should be admired. However, it can be difficult to know where to start, so here are nine tips to help you prepare and make the most out of your doctor's appointment.
#1 Choose The Right Doctor
I understand this may seem a little bit odd but let me explain. If you have a doctor who you know pretty well already and you feel comfortable talking to, it's best to book an appointment with them. If you don't have much experience with any of the doctors in your surgery, lots of people say it's best to stay away from the newly qualified doctors, as they might not have as much experience dealing with mental health issues, especially if you think yours are going to be quite complex. In the same way, some people don't like older doctors because they are not used to dealing with mental health issues because when they started training, looking after those with a mental illness wasn't part of their job. That being said, most doctors now have regular, and up to date training on dealing with mental health problems, so you shouldn't let that put you off.
#2 Prepare What Your Going To Say
If you're nervous, it can be easy to get tongue tied, forget what you want to say and end up not getting the help you need because you can't get the words out. If you're someone who has experienced this before, you may benefit from writing what you want to say down first. You don't have to show the doctor this, it could just be noted on paper or even on your phone, with little bullet points outlining the things you wanted to discuss and any questions you may have, but by doing this can help you organise your thoughts and make sure you are getting the most of the 10 minute appointment.
#3 Take Someone With You, For Moral Support
Okay, this point isn't going to be for everyone. I know when I went to the doctor to talk about my OCD, I did not want anyone to come with me. I knew if I took my parents with me, I wouldn't be 100% honest and as a result, not get the help I needed. If you have told someone about what you are going through and think you will benefit from taking them with you to the doctor, I would strongly recommend you ask them. They will be there to support & help you if you get upset. As well as being able to provide an outside perspective for how you are being affected in your daily life. They may be able to tell the doctor what changes they have seen in your behaviour, to help the doctor make an informed decision about what further support you need.
#4 Book A Double Appointment
When you book your appointment, ask to book a double appointment, if it's possible. It can be hard to tell the doctor, everything you need to in the space of 10 minutes and to agree on a suitable and appropriate plan going forward. To feel like you are not being rushed or telling the doctor everything you need to, to get the help you need, a double appointment may be necessary.
#5 Take Your Time
At most doctors surgeries you will only have 10-minute appointments, but don't let that put you off going to get help or telling the doctor everything you need to. Take your time when describing what's bothering you and how you have been feeling recently. The doctor will lead the consultation but don't let that put you off going into detail about what you need to. If they ask you, a question don't feel like if you have to answer really quickly and briefly. Get the most out of the appointment and don't rush what you're saying in fear of putting them behind schedule. You have as much right to get the help you need, like any other patient there.
#6 Be As Honest As You Can
To get the help you need, it's important to be as honest and truthful about what you are struggling with. I know how difficult it can be to be really honest, that fear of being judged can hold us back from getting the help we need, but it's important to remember that doctors are non-judgemental, they want to help you with whatever you are struggling with; physical or emotional. For them to do their job, being as honest as you can will benefit you greatly.
#7 Get There Early If You Are Nervous
The worst thing you can do is turn up flushed and stressed. If you have to travel by car or public transport, it's best to leave with plenty of time just in case the unexpected happens. If you turn up without much time to spare, you may stumble on your words or forget what about you were going to say. If you don't mind doctors surgeries, get there with time to spare, however, if doctors surgeries make you stressed, it may be best to not get there super early, but instead you could wait outside and go in when you're ready, so you know your not going to be late.
#8 Don't Be Embarrassed
This is often easier said than done. I remember when I first went to the doctor, I described myself as being ashamed and embarrassed by my behaviour and compulsions. It's natural to feel this way. However, you shouldn't feel this way really because the doctors aren't there to judge you. Most doctors have had proper training in dealing with mental health issues, they know how to support you and what medication may be right for you. You may think your the first person to ever walk through their door with this particular issue but I can 100% guarantee that you are not. Doctors see hundreds of patients in a week, they see all kinds of illnesses both mental and physical. You are not alone, and they are not there to judge you, they just want to help you.
#9 If You Don't Get The Support You Need, Book To See Another Doctor
This point totally contradicts what I said previously. Although most doctors are fully trained in dealing with mental health issues, know how to talk to you about your difficulties sensitively and ensure you get the support you need. Unfortunately, not everyone is fortunate to have a positive doctors experience when going to discuss mental health. Although you shouldn't let these examples put you off seeking help, if you are unfortunate enough to not get the help you need, or you don't feel satisfied with your experience and help, it's incredibly important to keep going back until you get the help you need. Your wellbeing is paramount at the end of the day, you should never settle for second best when it comes to mental health care.
I hope some of you find this post useful. If you know anyone that may benefit from this post, I would really appreciate you sending them a link to help them reach out and get the support they need.
Thank you for reading, as always X
This is great. I hope this helps a lot of people.
ReplyDeleteS .x http://ramblingsofayoungprgirl.blogspot.com
lets hope so x
DeleteSuch an inspirational post, Nicole! Sharing this! x
ReplyDeletehttps://guiliannamarie.blogspot.com
You are more than welcome x
DeleteThe are such brilliant tips Nicole. I didn't know it was possible to book a double appointment so that's definitely something I'll remember in future - thank you! You're so right about not feeling ashamed or like you won't be listened to, but I'm also really glad that you included your last point about keeping on trying if it doesn't work out the first time. Going to see somebody about mental health might only be the first step on a long journey, but it can be a huge step forward for somebody's recovery and I'm sure all your advice will hep someone out there who needs it.
ReplyDeleteI hope you're well!
Lx | Lightly We Go
Thank you Lucy! Yes, you can, well you can book a double at my surgery! I presume it's the same for most, but you may have to check with yours xx
DeleteCan't agree more with every point in this post - I'm so glad that I went to the doctors when I did well over a year ago now. Definitely choose the right doctor, and don't be put off if the first one you try isn't as understanding as you hoped! Moral support is always good too, great post Nicole!
ReplyDeleteLucy | Forever September
Thank you so much! I am so happy to hear you have had a positive experience with your doctor x
DeleteI've given this a RT as talking about your mental health and getting the help you need is so, so important. Thank you for writing such an amazingly helpful post. Unfortunately, I've had far too many #9 experiences!
ReplyDeletecharleylucy.com
Thank you! I'm so sorry to hear that! Don't give up hope though, you deserve the best care for your mental health xx
DeleteThis is brilliant, really helpful for anyone needing that boost to go to the doctors (incl. myself).
ReplyDeleteReally inspires me to talk about it more.
Terima kasih, itu bacaan yang sangat keren! used motorcycles san diego
ReplyDeleteถ้าไม่ใช่ปัญหามากเกินไปก็แชร์กันไป บ้านมือสองรีโนเวท
ReplyDeleteWe are really grateful for your blog post. You will find a lot of approaches after visiting your post. Great work corso Team Building
ReplyDeleteI was surfing the Internet for information and came across your blog. I am impressed by the information you have on this blog. It shows how well you understand this subject. vertical blinds spares
ReplyDelete"ขอบคุณสำหรับข้อมูลที่มีค่าและข้อมูลเชิงลึกที่คุณได้ให้ไว้ที่นี่ ... pgslot
ReplyDeleteฉันรู้สึกว่าคนจำนวนมากต้องการอ่านสิ่งนี้ข้อมูลที่ดีมาก! pg slot
ReplyDeleteA very awesome blog post. We are really grateful for your blog post. You will find a lot of approaches after visiting your post. I was exactly searching for. Thanks for such post and please keep it up Airport Transfers Cornwall
ReplyDeletewow... what a great blog, this writter who wrote this article it's realy a great blogger, this article so inspiring me to be a better person houston embroidery service
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy simply reading all of your weblogs. Simply wanted to inform you that you have people like me who appreciate your work. Definitely a great post. Hats off to you! The information that you have provided is very helpful. rent a car beograd
ReplyDeleteTôi phải nói blog thú vị, các sự kiện và thông tin được viết ở đây là chính xác. áo khoác da đen fb88
ReplyDeleteThe links and resources posted by you in the blog are very useful for me! I was looking for this exact and particular information for a long time. Thanks. Video production companies in baltimore
ReplyDelete그것을 읽고 사랑하고, 더 많은 새로운 업데이트를 기다리고 있으며 이미 최근 게시물을 읽었습니다. 토토안전업체
ReplyDelete이것은 정말 좋은 소식입니다, 내가 게시물을 좋아합니다, 공유 주셔서 감사합니다 .. 토토
ReplyDeleteInteresting blog I must say, the facts and information written here are accurate. black leather motorcycle jacket casinoslot
ReplyDeleteYour blog is too much amazing. I have found with ease what I was looking. Moreover, the content quality is awesome. Thanks for the nudge! CBD Nugs
ReplyDeleteCool you write, the information is very good and interesting, I'll give you a link to my site. supertotobet
ReplyDelete이 멋진 정보를 얻게되어 정말 감사합니다 토토사이트추천
ReplyDeleteYou have performed a great job on this article. It’s very precise and highly qualitative. You have even managed to make it readable and easy to read. You have some real writing talent. Thank you so much yoga tribe gatineau
ReplyDeleteWe can assure you that when you take our Airport Transfer Reading services then you reach your destination on time safely and comfortably. The drivers provided by our company are very smart, well trained, and friendly as well as courteous. Reading Heathrow Taxi
ReplyDeleteThere are many airport transfers in Berkshire but our services are considered as one of the best. Taxi Transfers Luton Airport
ReplyDeleteWhether you are travelling for business purpose or just for pleasure you need to hire airport transfer services so that you reach your desired destination in a comfortable way. Gatwick To Reading Taxi
ReplyDeleteI want to have this great information. I love it so much! atık arıtma
ReplyDelete나는 당신의 포스트를 읽고 그것이 놀랍다는 것을 발견했습니다! 감사! 토토검증업체
ReplyDelete매우 유익한 게시물! 성공적인 소셜 네트워킹 캠페인을 시작하는 데 도움이되는 많은 정보가 여기에 있습니다! 토토안전업체
ReplyDeleteAnkara nakliyat firması ile kış kampanyası memura askere polise özel indirim. Ekonomik fiyata kaliteli lüks hizmet. marangozlu asansörlü nakliyat. Site adresi Ankara nakliyat sitesi.
ReplyDeleteUluslararası Evden Eve Nakliyat, Zati Eşya Taşıma, Sıfır Mobilya Taşıma, Sigortalı Taşıma. Tüm Avrupa Ülkelerine Ev Eşyalarınızı Taşıyoruz. Uluslararası evden eve nakliyat, şehir içi ve şehirler arası ofis, ev ve zati eşya taşıma, depolama hizmetleri.
ReplyDeleteTekerlekleri sayesinde istenilen yere gitmeyi kolaylaştıran tekerlekli konteyner evler, gidilen yerde ev konforunu sürdürmeyi mümkün kılıyor. Pera tiny house tekerlekli ev imalatı ve satışı yapan bir firma niteliğindedir.
ReplyDeleteHizmet bölgelerimiz Adalar Su Tesisatçısı | Ataşehir Su Tesisatçısı | Beykoz Su Tesisatçısı | Çekmeköy Su Tesisatçısı | Kadıköy Su Tesisatçısı |
ReplyDeleteHizmetler | Kartal Su Tesisatçısı | Maltepe Su Tesisatçısı | Pendik Su Tesisatçısı | Sancaktepe Su Tesisatçısı | Sultanbeyli Su Tesisatçısı |
ReplyDeleteHizmet bölgelerimiz Üsküdar Vidanjör Hizmeti | Darıca Su Tesisatçısı | Ataşehir Tuvalet Tıkanıklığı Açma | Ataşehir Gider Açma | Ataşehir Su Kaçağı Tespiti |
ReplyDeleteThis is an extraordinary element for sharing this useful message. I am dazzled by the information you have on this blog. It causes me from multiple points of view. A debt of gratitude is in order for posting this once more. 먹튀검증업체
ReplyDeleteThank you for such a great article. 토토사이트
ReplyDeleteVery Nice Blog Thanks for sharing This Useful information. 토토안전업체
ReplyDeleteI will be interested in more similar topics. i see you got really very useful topics , i will be always checking your blog thanks 메이저사이트
ReplyDeleteThe article posted was very informative and useful. You people are doing a great job. Keep going 토토사이트
ReplyDeleteI am so much grateful to have this wonderful information 토토안전업체
ReplyDeleteWe are one of the best cosplay costumes supplier in China.Good looking,educated,sexy,college girls,housewives,model,russains are ready for your personal service. 토토커뮤니티
ReplyDeleteThank you for such a great article. 안전놀이터
ReplyDeleteit was a wonderful chance to visit this kind of site and I am happy to know. thank you so much for giving us a chance to have this opportunity corporate video production company in Baltimore
ReplyDeleteThere is noticeably a bundle to find out about this. I assume you made sure nice factors in options also 먹튀검증
ReplyDeleteI feel a lot more people need to read this, very good info windshield replacement san diego
ReplyDeleteThere is noticeably a bundle to find out about this. I assume you made sure nice factors in options also 먹튀검증
ReplyDeleteListed here you'll learn it is important, them offers the link in an helpful webpage auto glass san diego
ReplyDeleteI think about it is most required for making more on this get engaged 먹튀검증업체
ReplyDeleteI have read your blog it is very helpful for me. I want to say thanks to you. I have bookmark your site for future updates 토토사이트
ReplyDeleteEstaré interesado en temas más similares. Veo que tienes temas muy útiles, siempre estaré revisando tu blog gracias nariz
ReplyDeleteI am happy to find this post very useful for me, as it contains lot of information. I always prefer to read the quality content and this thing I found in you post. Thanks for sharing 검증사이트
ReplyDeleteIt's always exciting to read articles from other writers and practice something from their web sites shipping from china
ReplyDeleteHola, estoy muy contento de haber localizado su blog, realmente lo ubiqué por error, mientras buscaba algo más en Google. De todos modos, estoy aquí ahora y me gustaría agradecer por una publicación tremenda y un sitio web entretenido. Por favor, sigan con el gran trabajo no puedo respirar por la nariz y no tengo mocos
ReplyDeleteThank you so much as you have been willing to share information with us. We will forever admire all you have done here because you have made my work as easy as ABC. freelancer malta
ReplyDeleteI am looking for and I love to post a comment that "The content of your post is awesome" Great work! 토토사이트
ReplyDeleteVery nice article, I enjoyed reading your post, very nice share, I want to twit this to my followers. Thanks! Filorga cream
ReplyDeleteI’m happy I located this blog! From time to time, students want to cognitive the keys of productive literary essays composing. Your first-class knowledge about this good post can become a proper basis for such people. nice one Skin whitening
ReplyDeleteI got too much interesting stuff on your blog. I guess I am not the only one having all the enjoyment here! Keep up the good work diseño grafico tijuana
ReplyDeleteI was taking a gander at some of your posts on this site and I consider this site is truly informational! Keep setting up. dental veneers tijuana
ReplyDeleteThat appears to be excellent however i am still not too sure that I like it. At any rate will look far more into it and decide personally! 안전놀이터
ReplyDeleteI am really impressed with your writing skills well with the layout for your weblog. Is that this a paid subject matter or did you modify it your self? Anyway stay up the nice high quality writing, it is rare to see a nice weblog like this one these days 토토사이트
ReplyDeleteGreat post i must say and thanks for the information. Education is definitely a sticky subject. However, is still among the leading topics of our time. I appreciate your post and look forward to more 메이저사이트
ReplyDeleteVery likely I’m going to bookmark your blog . You absolutely have wonderful stories. Cheers for sharing with us your blog. 토토사이트
ReplyDeleteIt is a completely interesting blog publish.I often visit your posts for my project's help about Diwali Bumper Lottery and your super writing capabilities genuinely go away me taken aback.Thank you a lot for this publish. shipping from china to usa
ReplyDelete"Its a great pleasure reading your post.Its full of information I am looking for and I love to post a comment that ""The content of your post is awesome"" Great work.
ReplyDelete" eyaculación precoz causas
I appreciate several from the Information which has been composed, and especially the remarks posted I will visit once more. 먹튀검증
ReplyDeleteIt is quite beneficial, although think about the facts when it reaches this target 토토안전업체
ReplyDeleteExcellent read, Positive site, where did u come up with the information on this posting?I have read a few of the articles on your website now, and I really like your style. Thanks a million and please keep up the effective work. shipping from china to usa
ReplyDeleteI like viewing web sites which comprehend the price of delivering the excellent useful resource free of charge. I truly adored reading your posting. Thank you! buy traffic
ReplyDelete이 멋진 정보를 얻게되어 정말 감사합니다 먹튀
ReplyDelete이 멋진 정보를 얻게되어 정말 감사합니다 먹튀검증
ReplyDeleteGood to become visiting your weblog again, it has been months for me. Nicely this article that i've been waited for so long. I will need this post to total my assignment in the college, and it has exact same topic together with your write-up. Thanks, good share Courtier immobilier chelsea
ReplyDeleteMost of the time I don’t make comments on websites, but I'd like to say that this article really forced me to do so. Really nice post! Free website promotion
ReplyDeleteListed here you'll learn it is important, them offers the link in an helpful webpage 메이저놀이터
ReplyDeleteI read this article. I think You put a great deal of exertion to make this article. I like your work 먹튀검증
ReplyDeleteThank you very much for writing such an interesting article on this topic. This has really made me think and I hope to read more. 먹튀검증
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy simply reading all of your weblogs. Simply wanted to inform you that you have people like me who appreciate your work. Definitely a great post. Hats off to you! The information that you have provided is very helpful. 먹튀검증
ReplyDeleteAmazing knowledge and I like to share this kind of information with my friends and hope they like it they why I do. homestay melaka
ReplyDelete이것은 실제로 제가 찾으려고했던 정보의 종류입니다. 이 정보를 써 주셔서 감사합니다 먹튀검증
ReplyDelete