topic Going to see a doctor about anxiety? in Anxiety

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

Dante_C_ — Thu, 28 May 2020 22:36:29 GMT

Hey guys, I was wondering if any of you have gone to see a doctor / GP about challenges you were facing mentally. If so what were your experiences talking with them like? Thinking about going in soon 🙂

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

smallwolf — Thu, 28 May 2020 23:16:28 GMT

Hi and welcome to beyond blue. I saw my GP before I started to see a psychologist. I would have to say that my experience was positive. I would assume you know it is a long appointment. And helpful to know if there is any family history - it was something I was asked about.

Tim

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

AnxiousAF — Thu, 28 May 2020 23:16:43 GMT

I've book an appointment today for tomorrow to get a hold of my issues. I've very open about my anxiety and that its really taking over me and affecting my life.

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

Gambit87 — Fri, 29 May 2020 02:01:09 GMT

Hi Dante C.

welcome to the forums!

I saw a GP and broke down in front of her.

It was probably the best thing I have done - she didn't mess around and said bluntly 'You need help' .It was a very positive experience.

Dont be afraid to open up and be straight up.

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

CalmCat — Fri, 29 May 2020 02:51:54 GMT

Hi Dante C,

Thank for your wonderful first post.

I was in your shoes years ago, going to multiple doctors for help. Each doctor gave a different response till I had a diagnosis from a psychiatrist. Then all GP's followed the advise of the psychiatrist.

So find the GP that is right for you and or a psychiatrist.

Really hope one of the reply's has answered your questions.

Regards,

Doran

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

jemma09 — Fri, 29 May 2020 07:36:01 GMT

Hi Dante C!

I encourage you to speak to a doctor about your concerns. They are there to help you.

I have spoken with three doctors about anxiety. 2/3 were great. 1/3 was not the best. It depends on the doctor. Two doctors were supportive, helped me get referred to Headspace (as I'm under 25). One helped me organise a mental health plan promptly so I could get therapy as soon as possible. The doctor that was not so helpful I just found that they were not empathetic to my situation. Unfortunately, they sort of brushed me off and just said I had tension and didn't offer much help. That is why I spoke to someone else, to make sure I could get the help I needed.

If a doctor brushes you off or is not supportive, please please don't let it discourage you - definitely find someone else! You deserve a supportive doctor!

I wish you all the best with chatting to a doctor. Hopefully this will be positive for you. Stay safe! 🙂

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

jemma09 — Fri, 29 May 2020 07:37:27 GMT

Hi AnxiousAF (love your username by the way!)

Just want to say good on you for booking that appointment. I hope you can get the support and help you need. Take care 🙂

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

jemma09 — Fri, 29 May 2020 07:38:42 GMT

Hi Gambit87!

You're not alone, I broke down in front of a doctor too and they were very kind. They understood I needed help and got me support right away!

Take care! 🙂

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

Jesicca — Fri, 29 May 2020 09:33:42 GMT

Hi Dante,

I struggled to find the courage to talk to someone and actually made and cancelled a few appointments before going in. I eventually told my boyfriend about my upcoming appointment and asked him to come with me to wait in the waiting room. This was helpful as it made me feel accountable for my own mental health. The GP was really supportive and although some of the questions were confronting and it was a bit of a tough conversation (I did start crying when talking about my symptoms), I felt safe and non judged which was kind of relieving.

I hope your experience with the GP feels just as safe and supportive and I am proud of you for finding the courage to take this next step in your mental health journey.

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

Dante_C_ — Sat, 30 May 2020 08:05:45 GMT

Thank you for all your lovely and encouraging words. You guys are awesome! 🙂

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

Dante_C_ — Sat, 30 May 2020 08:07:43 GMT

Let me know how it goes on here AnxiousAF!

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

Dante_C_ — Sat, 30 May 2020 08:09:11 GMT

Must have been hard! You are an extremely courageous person for going in and opening up to a complete stranger!

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

Guest_1643 — Sat, 30 May 2020 08:36:48 GMT

Hi Dante,

you got some great responses to the question! i think we've all been there!!

I've had a few brush offs when i spoke to gps about mental health - that was really disappointing because it takes a lot of courage to do so!

It can take a few tries, so please don't be discouraged and know it's not your fault if the gp doesn't get it - and move on to one who does!!

They are out there for sure, but can take a fair bit of effort to find.

I am happy to report I found one eventually who is very good with mental health and makes it easy to talk about those things. Also honest to admit that i saw about four before him.
Good luck!!!!

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

blondguy — Sat, 30 May 2020 12:10:17 GMT

Hey Dante

great thread topic and thankyou! So many proactive members posting excellent support above 🙂

My recovery was due to my GP.....she had a strong mental health focus and helped me help myself

Making a double appointment is a huge help
Gambit87 mentioned on the 29th "I saw a GP and broke down in front of her" I did the same and yes it was somewhat uncomfortable (as so many people withhold their feelings) yet the next day I felt so good
If we are not brutally honest with our GP (doctor...psych) the recovery process can take a lot longer

Good to have you as part of the Beyond Blue forum family Dante!

any questions are always welcome

Paul

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

Dante_C_ — Thu, 04 Jun 2020 04:05:48 GMT

Thanks Paul for taking the time to respond. Great response and well done on your recovery 🙂

Going to see a doctor about anxiety?

smallwolf — Sun, 07 Jun 2020 11:55:49 GMT

Hey Dante - just checking in to see how you are going? Hope all is OK with you.