“THINGS TO KNOW” BEFORE YOUR FIRST PSYCHIATRY APPOINTMENT
We often hear from our patients during their initial visit about how long they’ve been putting off seeing a psychiatry professional out of fear. They also talk about how nervous they were leading up to the appointment.
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If you are preparing to attend your first psychiatry appointment, it’s completely normal to feel anxious or nervous. However, being prepared can help to alleviate some of those feelings. It’s commendable that you have taken the first step to schedule an appointment, and it’s important to remember that your psychiatry professional is there to help you.
PRE-APPOINTMENT ANXIETY
Pre-appointment anxiety, your anxiety over this first appointment may be causing you to assume the worst or think treatment will be tougher than it is. For instance, you may think you have too many problems to tackle. However, the reality is that your provider will likely focus on just one or two issues, to begin with and move on from there. Being prepared for your first appointment can help you manage your anxiety and nervousness.
Be prepared for your first Psychiatry appointment
Before your first appointment, it’s a good idea to come prepared with your medical and psychiatric history. This includes a list of all medications you are currently taking, as well as any psychiatric medications you have taken in the past and for how long. You should also be prepared to discuss your medical concerns, any diagnoses you have received, and any history of psychiatric issues in your family. If you have seen a psychiatry professional in the past, it’s helpful to have a copy of your records or notes about your prior experiences.
During your first appointment, your psychiatry professional will likely ask you open-ended questions about why you have come to see them. Don’t worry if you don’t know where to start or feel nervous about sharing your story. They are there to guide you through the interview and help you feel comfortable. You may experience different emotions, such as crying or feeling awkward, while discussing your concerns. This is completely normal, and it’s okay to take your time or let your provider know if a topic is too sensitive to discuss. It’s important to be open and honest so, they can provide you with the best possible care if they fully understand your situation. You may need to discuss sensitive topics such as your sexual history, family relationships, and drug use. While this may be difficult to share, remember that your psychiatry professional is there to help you and provide appropriate treatment.
At the end of your appointment, you and your psychiatry professional will work together to create a treatment plan. This may include medication options, psychotherapy, and any recommended labs or test. If you have any questions or concerns about your diagnosis or treatment, be sure to communicate with your provider before the end of the session.
After your first appointment, you may want to make notes about things you wish to discuss in more depth in the future or any feelings you experienced during the session.
CONCLUSION
At times, taking care of our mental health can seem daunting. However, remember that the journey to a better mental wellness starts with a single step. By taking that crucial step and booking an appointment with Journey Psyche, you can start living your best life. Don’t wait any longer, prioritize your mental health today!
