Seeing GP for anxiety, advice on possible treatments?

[unigirl1994]

Hi all, I've never seen my GP about anxiety before but it's been so horrible lately with the end of my uni degree in 4 weeks and many sleepless nights. Been putting off an appointment for weeks so going to bite the bullet next week and just do it! First of all, I'm not 100% how to bring it up and what to say? I think I might have depresssion to but I don't want to self diagnose. I also am worried that he will refer me to a psychologist/psychiatrist and I hate the idea of that - I talked to a psychologist once when I was 14 and hated it, she didn't help me at all and I felt like it made me more upset. I'm just not sure about the treatment options apart from that and medication that he can help with? I'm happy to be put on meds as long as it helps but I feel like that wont be the first option right?

[romantic_thi3f]

Hi unigirl1994,

Thanks for reaching out.

What your GP will say and do honestly depends on who you see.  I've seen and heard of GP's that have suggested therapy as a first option and suggested medication as a first option.  Note though that research tells us if medication is given, it is clinically proven to be better alongside therapy.  Some people find that they do well on their own though, so it's up to you to choose. You also have the right to say no. 

Please know that not all psychologists/psychiatrists are the same.  I also had a bad experience with one when I was around 13 but now I see one regularly and I can't imagine life without it.  Psychologists can provide lots of different skills that we can't get from medication like being able to listen non-judgementally, and also helping us to analyse thoughts as to how accurate/flawed they are.  I think it truly depends on who you see.  Just like GP's, everyone is different.

Bringing it up with your GP can be uncomfortable - but remember that you are doing this for the right reasons.  It might help to pre-rehearse if you are feeling nervous or bring someone in with you. "There was something I wanted to mention and I'm a bit nervous about. I've been feeling x,y,z.." is an example.

Hope this helps.