Seeing a psychiatrist
Question
A friend of mine made me go to see my doctor a couple of weeks ago because she found out I'd been self harming and depressed for some time.
My doctor has made an appointment for me with a psychiatrist and the thought of it is really scaring me. I'm totally confused about why this is happening so I can't imagine what they'll ask me and don't know how I'll answer their questions. Can you tell me what'll happen at the appointment? And do I have to tell my parents I'm going?
Answer
It sounds like you've been having a really hard time. It must have been difficult for you to see your doctor about the depression you have been experiencing and your self harm. But it's great to hear your friend has been there to encourage you to see your doctor, especially because this is an important step forward to accessing the right help and support.
Self harm is often a way for people to cope with, and get through, difficult emotions or situations and is often a way of communicating what they cannot put into words or even into thoughts. There may be certain underlying issues surrounding your behaviour, such as the depression you mentioned in your message. There are a number of ways of treating depression both with, and without, medication. Your doctor will be able to discuss the medical and talking treatment options available, such as antidepressants or cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT).
It's understandable you feel so concerned about being referred to a psychiatrist. Again, your doctor should be able to talk through any concerns you may have and explain the reasons behind their decision for the referral.
There is generally a lot of stigma attached to psychiatrists but please be reassured, there is no need to be scared. A psychiatrist is simply a medical doctor who specialises in psychiatry, a branch of medicine that covers the science and practice of treating mental, emotional or behavioural disorders. Coming from a more specialist background, your needs will be fully assessed, so that you can then be offered the right form of support to help you feel better. They will simply ask you questions about how you have been feeling, in order to gain a better understanding and history of your feelings and behaviour. Try to be as honest about your experiences as possible, so that the psychiatrist can help you as best they can.
It can be really difficult to talk about painful feelings. But, often people do find it helpful to share their thoughts with close and trusted friends. Talking to your parents could help them understand what you are going through. Maybe if they knew more about your situation, they could support you and help you to recover? This may be a very hard thing to think about doing but if a close friend were present too you might find this possible. Understandably, however, this may not feel right or you may not feel ready to do so at the moment and you don't need to unless you want to.
If you feel uncomfortable speaking to your parents, doctor, or your friends, you can talk in confidence and without judgement to SANELINE on 0845 767 8000. They can provide you with emotional support and further information.
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