depression help

[lilfire]

I know this is dumb on the surface but how does one go about getting help for depression/anxiety? I have a primary care doc who I don't like but I suppose I could go to him for a referral? I have a doc phobia, I feel like they're judging me. I'm too lazy to try and find someone online though. How do you know what you need from all the options: therapist, counselor, psychologist, psychiatrist. Help. Thanks.

 

[n3ophy7e]

Hi lilfire, it's usually best to go to your regular doctor, explain the situation to them and get a referral from them. The thing you need to remember about doctors is that it's their job to speak to people about their medical issues, they are NOT there to judge you. I know it's really confronting to have to sit down in front of them and admit that you're depressed or anxious or whatever, but I promise you that they will not think twice about it, and they will just do their job and refer you on to a specialist. Think of all the hundreds of other heaps weirder medical things they get presented with each week! Depression and anxiety is a lot more common than you might think so please don't be embarrassed or ashamed about it

Which type of specialist you would be best suited to depends on your symptoms and their severity. Have you ever been on any anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medication? How long have your symptoms been going on for, and how old are you? How much does your depression and anxiety interfere with your every day life? You don't have to answer any of these questions on here!! But it's just something to think about before you approach your doctor about it.

Good luck, and let us know how you go, if you like

 

[unsettled]

when I first realized I needed professional help with depression I went to my primary care doctor and he prescribed me anti depressants and xanax, after awhile he felt it would be best if I had a psychiatrist and he recommended one. things have improved a bit since I've been seeing the psychiatrist, I should be in therapy too but one step at a time I guess.

my doctor wasn't judgemental at all and even admitted to being on the same anti depressant that I was requesting to try. my experience is that there are a lot of people in the health care industry who really do care, there are exceptions, but depression and anxiety is nothing to be ashamed of. I think it's a very responsible mature decision to seek professional help.

if you don't feel comfortable going to your doc about these issues you could ask any friends or family members for a referral to a good psych doctor, alot of people see psychiatrists, nothing to be ashamed of. you have nothing to lose by giving it a shot, just taking steps to see a psych doctor when you are depressed is an accomplishment and it definitely increases your chances of raising the quality of your life.

I'd give it a shot, it may or may not help but at least you'll be on the path to recovery.

Also, if you do end up seeing a psychiatrist and don't like it at first try and give it a few sessions before you quit, the better they know you the better they can help you.