Lived Experience Forum

[Bimby2]

Had quite a run-around-day getting to my GP  that I could get a referral to a new analyst/specialist. A friend

told me to write down what I want to ask this new doctor as I suffer a bit from social phobia and get stuck

with my nervous feelings about the important things I want to say. Do some other forum members find it

helps to write a posting about what's troubling them and hand it to the medico? I would really appreciate

any advice on what does help, to get the most out of my appointment. Kindest regards from Bimby2 

[pip]

Dear Bimby2. Often writing things down means less nervousness when you meet. Once you're comfortable you relax and you seem to open more. Another thing, when you meet, there's things you forget through being nervous. If I'd told my psych certain things about me, things between us might have been better. Because I had no experience with psych's (never having been to one) I had no idea what to say, how to talk etc. Also keep a personal journal about your recovery, how you feel about your specialist/psych. If you ever feel uncomfortable or you feel he/she isn't taking notice, I would suggest you return to your Dr and ask for another referral. Sometimes it can take a few meetings before you become easy when talking.

[Bimby2]

Thank you Pip for your words of advice and wisdom from your own experiences. I appreciate same and

intend to write out what I think is applicable to my interview. As you say,if one doesn't click with the specialist, it is wiser to ak for another referral to somebody else. Growth can be painful with MI but hopefully

in the long run, rewarding. Thanks so much for your caring words, it helps very much when ones feeling

very vulnerable and dispirited. Cheers,gratitude and best wishes from Bimby2

[traveline]

I went to a psych the first time and took everything with me.. A list of my symptoms, in highs and lows, a complete evaluation of what I think it may be or not and why and a diary of the past month, containing my thoughts. I forget everything when nervous 😄 I wish you good luck for your appointment and yes, if the doc is not right for you, I would go to another source. All the best 🙂

[Bimby2]

Thank you Traveline for your most welcome advice on how you manage when going to the psych.

I found this lady doctor to be quite a pleasant person and on first aquaitenances, I think I shall find we can

build a rapport together, which is most important to feel at ease. I had written out a page of what I felt woud

be of helpful information and she thanked me for same. It does break the ice when one naturally feels

nervous on first consultation. Hope other forum members will find this helpful and wish each one a pleasant

weekend. Cheers and best wishes from Bimby2.