Posted by Wittgenstein on April 12, 2007, at 7:28:51
In reply to Re: Do I have mood disorder?: Honore, posted by areallytroubledgirl on April 11, 2007, at 12:45:15
Hi again,
I understand what you mean exactly - it takes a lot of courage to talk about how you feel with the fear that the doctor might say "there's nothing wrong" or "I can't help you". I can't guarantee this won't happen but a good doctor will not respond this way.
If you were to experience such a response, you should ask for a second opinion. But maybe it's best not to worry too much about this possible outcome before it happens - if you don't at least try to get some help you will be in same the situation - whereas if you do go and speak to someone, you will most likely get the help and support you need.
It's good you are thinking about all this and perhaps you can make some preparations before you have your appointment.
Maybe write down your experiences - how you feel and the effect they are having on you. Make sure you tell the doctor about your suicidal thoughts. Be sure to mention that depression runs in your family - i.e. about your mother. If you have the main points written down, it means you won't leave the appointment regretting not having mentioned something - especially if you become blank once sitting in the room or you don't find it easy to say all these things.
I'd also try to be open about how you feel - that you are scared that she won't take you seriously, that you won't get help - and why you think you need help - how living with these thoughts is making you unhappy and how unhappy you are.
Don't be scared that the doctor will find it petty or silly - she won't. Nearly a third of all GP consultations are about mental health. If someone of your age is experiencing suicidal thoughts (for that matter anyone), it must be taken seriously.
Some other thoughts: I doubt the local doctor will give a diagnosis as they are not really equipped to do this - the terms 'low mood' or 'depression' might be mentioned but you would need to be referred on to a specialist for a formal assessment before there is any mention of a diagnosis (I expect). The meeting with the local doctor will be the first contact - hopefully she will have some good advice for you or be able to refer you to a specialist who has experience with working with young people in your position. For people under 18 (in the UK at least) you won't simply be prescribed medicine and sent away - it's likely you will be able to see a counselor or a psychiatrist who will then discuss with you and your parents how to help you best.
I hope it all goes well - you are being very brave.
Please let us know how it goes.
Libby :)
poster:Wittgenstein
thread:748230
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/newbs/20061013/msgs/749258.html