Neuropsychiatry - Does Anyone Have Experience

[epaklt]

I have had PTSD for some years and have recently gone through the Victorian Bushfires so have had a new series of issues added or old ones have been exaserbated. After having gone through the fires where I felt in one moment safe and comfortable, to having everything and everyone I cared for, under severe threat. I now struggle with feeling safe, sleep and have flashbacks of the fire...

My Psychiatrist seems to try very hard to help, but his main cause of action comes down to medication. My problem is that I have a few medical conditions that make prescribing very difficult. I have epilepsy and very low blood pressure (not normally a big problem except most meds drop your blood pressure a bit more), this makes it a bit dangerous. Since epilepsy is involved he has suggested I see a Neuropsychiatrist. They can do all this tests, some I've already had many times, and some that sound a bit "guinea pig" like. I'm not keen on being hooked up to machines.

Has anyone had any experience with this, or any ideas as to how useful this may be? I'm more than a little reluctant...

Cheers
Keri

 

[cragger65]

I saw several nuero-pychiatrists as a result of my brain injury, they are a little more highly trained than your average psych and may be able to offer additional insights. They will probably want to do CAT scans and the like. Nothing to be afraid of, believe me I've gone through a battery of these tests, they are harmless.

 

[missys_girl]

I suffer from epilepsy and also suffer from low blood pressure, not severe to the point where ill faint though, but i get head spins though when i stand up etc, im on Topamax for my epilepsy and im on Neulactil for anxiety, Effexor XR for the depression, dont know if thats of any help. :dontknow:

 

[FlameTachiku]

Well there is a possiblity that the doc will have an good set of skills if talent matches education. He/she may be able to look at your behaviors, symptoms, concerns and blend it with physiology, biology and the function of your brain. This would help to target treatments to be effective by addressing parts of the brain that are not fully functioning. This information can then be combind with behaviors that are not currently serving you well. At the same time the doc can see what is functioning well and learn what types of skills or beliefs you have that best support you. This information will target treatment specifically to your needs. For example, to examine your strengths and weaknesses at both a behaviorial and medical level provides an opportunity to target treatment making it more effective and meaningful for your individual needs. It a nice combo skill set to offer you...if the doc's talents matches the education.