5 Ways to Prepare For Your First Visit With A Psychiatrist

So you finally made the appointment that you have been putting off for a while, you are going to see a psychiatric doctor. You have taken your first steps on your mental wellness journey, congratulations. Start by giving yourself some credit, you’ve earned it. Now ask yourself, “how do I feel?” Happy? Relived? Nervous?

Maybe this is your first time seeing a mental health professional or maybe you are changing providers. No matter the situation, being well prepared for your initial evaluation will help you get the most out of the visit. Your mental health is worth investing a little extra time and energy. Below are a few tips to help you prepare for your first visit with your psychiatric provider.

1.Know You’re Medical History

During your initial evaluation you will be asked about your medical and psychiatrics history. Not only will you be asked about your personal history, but you will also be asked about medical and psychiatric history of your first-degree relatives, parents and siblings. Your medical history is important because conditions such as thyroid disease and diabetes share symptoms commonly seen in mental health disorders. Psychiatric professionals also inquire about familial psychiatric history due to research suggesting strong familial linkages. Scientists have long recognized that many psychiatric disorders tend to run in families, suggesting potential genetic roots. Disorders understood to have familial ties include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, major depression and schizophrenia. Your provider will spend a lengthy amount of time on this portion of the evaluation so be prepared. It may be helpful to bring a list of:

• Any mental health diagnoses

• A list of any psychiatric medications
  you might have tried in the past, including how long you took them for

• Any psychiatric hospitalizations

• Any medical concerns, or diagnosis you are receiving treatment for

• Family history of psychiatric issues, if there
  are any

2. Be Prepared For Your Doctor to Ask You Questions

Because this is your first time meeting your doctor be prepared to answer a host of various questions. We ask a lot of open-ended questions in psychiatry. Although, it may unnecessary we promise that every question has a purpose. Your answers help to paint a picture of your concerns, and allows us to get a better sense of who your and how we can best fulfill your mental health needs. We often ask:

• Why did you decide to seek treatment?

• How long have you been dealing with your symptoms?

• Have you ever experienced … before/ how did you manage before?

• What do you need from me to make your treatment successful?

3. Be Open And Honest

Honesty is the best policy. In this field clients often have shared concerns that they will be Judged by their provider. Please rest assured that you are in a judgment free zone. As a psychiatric professional we regularly speak with clients about sensitive topics and encounter clients seeking treatment for a variety of different reasons. It is quite likely that your provider has treated someone very similar to you, so speak candidly. We rely on the information you share to provide appropriate treatment.

Unlike with other medical professions, there is no blood test or diagnostic imaging that can be ordered to diagnose mental illness. Mental health providers rely on the information collected during the evaluation to not only diagnose, but also to develop appropriate treatment plans. We want to provide you with the best possible care.

4. Make a List of Questions You Have

Meeting with a psychiatry professional often feels unlike any doctors visit you’ve had before. There is often no physical exam or blood work completed during your appointment. Your visit will feel much like having an in-depth conversation and like any conversation it goes both ways. During your appointment you will be asked plenty of questions. However, do not feel that the provider is the only one allowed to ask question. The initial evaluation is also the time for you to to find out if you have selected the right individual in which to entrust your care. So feel empowered and ask any questions that you may have:

• What is my diagnosis?

• Have you ever treated someone dealing with what I am dealing with?

• What are common side effects of the medication you prescribed?

• How can I be involved in my care?

• Are you available outside appointments to address medication and other concerns, such as refills and emergencies?

• What’s the best way to reach you?

5. Remember It is ok to Experience a Variety of Emotions

Mental wellness is a journey not a destination, so be kind to yourself. During the initial evaluation and at subsequent visits you may find yourself feeling vulnerable, uncomfortable, sad, or even angry. Understand that all of the emotions you are feeling are OK and completely normal.

Take note that being open and sharing your story takes a lot of courage and strength, which can feel emotionally draining. But, feel encouraged that you are on your own journey and openly embrace your emotions. Don’t let anything interfere with you getting the help and treatment that you deserve and need.

At Metamorphosis Psychcierge as a new client to the practice we will begin your treatment journey with an executive psychiatric interview. This interview is how we get to know you in order to better understand your unique mental health needs. If you are looking for the support of an empathetic mental health professional request a consultation today. Our home-visit and TelePsych concierge model will provide you with the accessibility that you need to make your mental health a priority.

Dr. Moore looks forward to discussing how the psychcierge lifestyle can get you on the road to mental prosperity.