So you've known for some time things are just not how they should be. This could be due to-
- Others have told you your behaviour is odd
- You are sad, lazy, suppressed
- You dont fit into groups or cant find friends
- You have anger issues
- You are angry with yourself
- And so on
There seems a lot of people, the majority I'd suggest feel shame in attending their GP to talk about mental issues. The stigma can be overwhelming. But in taking that very first step you are accepting the possibility that there could be a problem and...you love your family so much you wouldnt like them to suffer putting up with you the way you are.
It isnt easy. The GP visit with your partner is often made following a screaming match. So sitting next to that partner listening to him/her claim your behaviour is odd when you feel the same is offputting. But it is a win-win situation because, you'll either be found without any illness as such or you can get treatment for one or your partner might have a problem.
Lets look at two possibilities. If your check up and maybe counselling its found that you do not have any illness, it could be that your troubles with your partner can be narrowed down to personality differences or incompatibility. This is good because claims from partners can be judgemental. They just might not accept your thinking as being different. Different does not mean abnormal.
However, if there is a diagnosis and its treated your relationship can get a second chance. Finally you and your partner with the help of your GP have identified an issue that has hindered your harmony, been instrumental in causing instability and unbeknown to the sufferer has been the cause of many odd events like tiredness, anger and distress.
An example: I was always tired. Eventually during a GP visit my wife mentioned I stop breathing while sleeping. I had a sleep study and found I had sleep apnea. Now with a CPAP machine I am bright and awake and less moody. The same with another visit in 2003 when that GP visit led to a referral that led to diagnosis of bipolar and depression. Such diagnosis changed my life and my wife is pleased that subsequent education, medication and guidance has caused us both to have a strong marriage.
Your GP visit is a crucial first step to a new life. View it as a positive step because it will result in a positive result no matter if there is a diagnosis or not.
Only good can come out of a visit to your GP.
Tony WK
