Appointment Tomorrow

[guamhaze]

hey all,

I have an appointment tomorrow for a first time visit with a Psychologist or Psychiatrist at the VA regional outpatient clinic in my area for "counseling". I've seen a psychiatrist here at my university (where I was diagnosed and put on meds), but this will be my first time in a VA setting, needless to stay I am nervous and just plain depressed right now. I'm wondering if you could guys (and gals) could give me some advice on what to expect and be ready for. Of course I'm not looking forward to this and every hour so far today I've been moments away from calling and canceling this appointment (probably not going to reschedule), but I know deep down I need to talk to a therapist or get some help. Though the meds are working I wish to be off them one day and I know this is the only route.

Cheers

 

[Sarg]

Oh, Guam, don't worry at all. A Dr. is just another person, just because he has a diploma, that doesn't make him special. Relax, go in and have a nice informative discussion, maybe if you have questions about VA therapy, make up a list. Make a conscious effort not to "wad up" (my very scientific term not to panic).

More than likely, the Dr. will probably be rather laid back, if their workload is any indication. I would have used the word tired, but Drs. aren't supposed to get tired (it's in the rulebook).

Oh, one thing in particular pops into mind. If they ask you how you are, tell them exactly how you feel. Don't just say "fine". That doesn't tell them a damn thing. Don't be shy, unload. Panic, depression, anxiety,...ect. Address your your most serious problems first. Sometimes they cut that hour down to 35 minutes.

Afterwards, don't hang on every word they say during your session. I have a terrible habit of ruminating over what my therapist and I talked about and I read way too much in minor comments. We have to remember, these folks see 8-10 patients a day, plus have to enter their notes into the computer, so they may just have made a flip comment. Don't sweat it.

Ask them if there is any information you can provide that would help, like notes from the PDoc at the university. Or a release, whatever.

That's about all I can think of.

Sarg

 

[JarHed]

Hey Guam

Good advice from Sarg. I'd just add that you're taking a good step in the right direction. Best of luck Bro.

Jar

 

[Tim Cake]

You are demonstrating real courage by admitting you have a problem. Moreover, you are doing the right thing by starting on the first treatment steps. Good for you!(y)

 

[guamhaze]

Thanks guys for the advice and encouragement, appreciate it.

 

[Zipperhead]

Go in there and talk. Get it all out. A mechanic can't fix your sled if you don't tell them what it's doing wrong.