How Do I Get A Diagnosis?

[Tigger]

I am new at all this. I am not sure how to post. But I think I can relate well and may find myself finally getting ready to be diagnosed with some form of PTSD. I can relate to a lot of the same feelings that everyone else seems to have of symptoms. both as a carer and sufferer. i am learning that the more i educate myself on this subject the more i can relate to others, and not feel so darn alone. Noone has openly discussed PTSD with me. everyone has agreed ( in my family) that i have endured severe trauma. How does one go about getting a doctor to say yes this is what you have? open to all and any input, suggestions, advice, friendship,and in turn be able to help others with what seems to work for me( depending on the topic) i.e. triggers, amnesia symptoms,etc.. If I posted this in the wrong place I am sorry I am learning how to work within a forum and have yet to understand where to post as a restricted to member, therefore I ask for for
giveness in advance.

 

[catjudo]

Welcome to the forum. I've moved your post to it's own introduction thread. I'm sure others will chime in with advice and support.

 

[cherryblossom]

I just wanted to say welcome to the forum.

You will have been directed to the FAQs when you first joined which should explain everything you need to know, with regard to how the forum works etc.
[DLMURL]http://www.ptsdforum.org/content/384-frequently-asked-questions[/DLMURL]

Please take time to read them. If you have any further queries, these can be posted in the 'Ask the Editors' section.

As for your question about diagnosis, I wont even begin to speculate how things work in the US, but I'm sure someone will have some info for you.

In the mean time, like I said, welcome, and take your time having a good read around the forum.

Regards,
CB

 

[kers]

How does one go about getting a doctor to say yes this is what you have?

To get a diagnosis, you need to see a trained mental health professional, either a therapist or a psychiatrist (many people here see both). Bear in mind that a medical professional may not agree with your self-diagnosis. They will ask you many questions about your history and present suffering in order to make an accurate assessment. Finding someone to see can be a bit of a challenge in the US; going through your insurance is generally necessary as all providers may not be covered.

It is good that you are reaching out and I hope you find some answers soon.

 

[Tigger]

Thank you, I have tried talking to my doctor who said he doesnt necessarily think that i do. I am now going to explore this with my new counselor this week. I keep reaching out and the only time I dont feel alone is when i have others who seem to understand the symptoms. and have a bunch of the same signs and symptoms. even if i do not find someone to diagnose me with it. at least if i can be aware and not feel alone then i might get by just fine i life with it. I do not feel that i need a doctor to confirm what i already beleive in my heart. but at least I can work with it knowing what i feel i have. and that seems to be the medicine to help me. so thank you all

 

[Iam]

HI Tigger,
Welcome to the forum! I understand wanting to have a clear diagnosis. Somehow it helps to know what we are dealing with and to find out HOW to deal with it. To be honest...I sincerely hope that you do not have PTSD as it involves an actual change in your brain chemistry that supposedly cannot be cured. Only a qualified dr can give you that. Here in the USA it has to be done thru a battery of tests performed by a pyschologist or a psychiatrist.

Whether you do or don't doesn't matter as far as being on the forum. PTSD includes so many symptoms that can be dx's unto their own i.e. depression, anxiety/panick disorders, dysthmia, BPD, DID on and on. Many of the coping skills that work for PTSD can be used for those disorders because they are addressing the same sypmtom. The only difference is that you can actually become symptom free if it is not PTSD. So I hope for your sake that you don't suffer from it.

Read the articles on the home page. You will get a lot of info there that can help you on your journey. Good luck and I look forward to getting to know you!