What to expect?

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-05-2006
What to expect?
5
Wed, 08-23-2006 - 12:46pm

Hello,
I go Monday for my first visit to a Psychiatrist for Depression/Panic Attacks/Anxiety.
I was wondering what to expect? I was told the first visit will be 1 1/2 hours. I know she will ask questions---but, what kind of questions. I really am not looking forward to this,
as I am shy and do not like talking about my past, especially to strangers. I also feel that talking about things only brings back everything full force.

I would cancel the appointment but, my regular Dr. says she cannot give me the help that a Psyschiartist can- I really am starting to dread this. I know I have to go though, If I want to get better. An hour and half seems like forever to talk about something-ha. I know she will need to know everything about me, as it will be all new to her. I just dread starting all over again.

Do any of you just feel that there is isn't a cure for depression and panic disorders or somebody would have come up with something by now.
The panic attacks/anxiety and social contact is what gets to me. I don't like being around people at all. I wish I could be calm but it's a never ending battle.

I mostly just lurk on these boards becuase I'm not that great at spelling and I'm really shy so I don't post much. I think these boards are great though!

iVillage Member
Registered: 10-21-2004
Wed, 08-23-2006 - 4:21pm
Hey, it is quite normal to be nervous and apprehensive about going to a pdoc, but really, try to relax. Most people who experience depression anxiety and panic, really fing that it helps talking to someone about all of it. Tomorrow expect questions about you,ie- what do you think triggers your anxiety, did anything significant happen to you at about the time the anxiety panic depression started, when you have a panic attack, what does your body experience (symptoms). They will ask questions about family, to see if it is inherited and then they will talk about exercises you can do to help yourself. I really like therapy(I never thought I would say that) it gives me somewhere to go and talk about me, vent cry.... what ever. I really think you will benifit from it!! Also the ladies here at this board are terrific, I would not make it through some of my days with out the people here to listen and give suggestions!! Post anytime, someone will ALWAYS answer!! Good luck with your appoitment tomorrow let us no how it goes, if you have anymore questions, just ask.
Kindra
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-22-2003
Wed, 08-23-2006 - 4:31pm

First, I just wanted to say, if you post on the above folder, you will get more responses.

Sheri Ann

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-05-2006
Wed, 08-23-2006 - 5:35pm
Ha! I noticed I post in the wrong section!! I've only post a few times and I think I've post in the wrong section each time. Thanks all for answering my post!
iVillage Member
Registered: 11-25-2005
Wed, 08-23-2006 - 7:54pm
Welcome!! I am so glad you stopped lurking and decided to write!!
No one can help you unless you are willing to ask!
Panic is horrible I have had it a long time but I am better thanks
to meds and therapy! I am much older than you and suffered a long time
before doctors knew what this illness was! There is HELP and you will feel
so much better!
Some questions will be about how you feel what unpset you what you avoid what
you like what you dont like
I understand about NOT wanting to bring up the PAST!! I did not want to either
however in order to help you it is important for your doc to know things
that happened in your life--- perhaps you can list some for the doc if you don't
want to talk about it that much! Just somehow communicate what has happened to you!!
I wish you all the best and know that you will feel better soon!! HUGS!! Judy
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-22-2003
Wed, 08-23-2006 - 9:01pm

It's okay that you posted on the wrong spot, you just won't get as much feedback!

Sheri Ann