Important question if you can help...?!
Question: Important question if you can help....?
I have a consultation with a counselor to see if i need treatment for depression and Im wondering what to expect. If (when) I start to see a psychiatrist are they gonna try to prescribe me anti-depressants right away.? Will they talk to me for a few sessions first.? I just am kind of nervous...
Thanks a lot. Health Question & Answer
Thanks a lot. Health Question & Answer
Answers:
A counselor isn't qualified to prescribe so no you shouldn't get meds immediately. First course of events is a written evaluation and assessment. This helps the mental health expert to diagnose and to know how to help you. The major responsibility you have is to be ultra-honest so you can be diagnosed and helped correctly. You may be shy or find some questions embarrass you but it is vitally important you tell the truth because the questions are not to embarrass you but rather to assist the expert with helping you. I can't stress honesty enough. Don't be afraid. Going to see a counselor is the beginning of a happier way of life and a means to an end of the pain, anger, or confusion you have felt. God bless you. I just said a little prayer for you to have courage and hope. I don't know if you even believe in a creator but a prayer can't hurt. i wish the best for you.Health Question & Answer
Any decent psychiatrist would not prescribe you anti-depressants right off the bat. But from what I here a lot of doctors are pretty pill happy and write prescriptions without batting an eye lash.
If you do go see an actual shrink, a medical doctor, they're going to give you a battery of tests to pin-point what is truly your issue. Then they may ask you to participate in therapy that for depression will mostly be cognitive and behavior therapy. Which basically means talking about your life and learning to practice things that reduce depression. And then if that doesn't work or the psychiatrist doesn't think you are making any improvements or if he feels the depression is bad enough, then thats when he/she will prescribe you the meds. And if it comes down to that make sure you discuss your options and understand thoroughly the side affects of anti-depressants.
Personally I would refuse the meds until I had tried some therapy first. Then after about 3 months if no improvements are seen or the depression gets worse then that is when I would try them. And remember just because you are on medication does not mean you are better. The medication only balances out your brain chemistry so you can start to deal with whatever caused the depression.Health Question & Answer
If you do go see an actual shrink, a medical doctor, they're going to give you a battery of tests to pin-point what is truly your issue. Then they may ask you to participate in therapy that for depression will mostly be cognitive and behavior therapy. Which basically means talking about your life and learning to practice things that reduce depression. And then if that doesn't work or the psychiatrist doesn't think you are making any improvements or if he feels the depression is bad enough, then thats when he/she will prescribe you the meds. And if it comes down to that make sure you discuss your options and understand thoroughly the side affects of anti-depressants.
Personally I would refuse the meds until I had tried some therapy first. Then after about 3 months if no improvements are seen or the depression gets worse then that is when I would try them. And remember just because you are on medication does not mean you are better. The medication only balances out your brain chemistry so you can start to deal with whatever caused the depression.Health Question & Answer
I am being treated for anxiety, which in turn did cause depression. When I went to the doc, he was very quick to prescribe a med. I went through hell with different meds and have come to realize that I could have very well cured it on my own with relaxation and many other self help ways. It took 3 different meds before they found one that worked. I do feel great now but if I would have known then what I know now about how different meds affect different people, I would have gotten a 2nd opinion because now I have to worry about tapering off. Talking to someone is a great way to start so you're on the right track! Just be cautious about meds and do your own research on these meds regarding side effects before you take them. I would like to hear the outcome about your consult. Keep posting and good luck! Health Question & Answer
dont be nervous. It is no different than going to see any other DR they will talk to you and find out whats been going on and then treat you accordingly. if you do have depression they most likely will start you on anti depressants right away. GOOD LUCK Health Question & Answer
Just because they are prescribed right away that does not mean you have to take them right away.Health Question & Answer