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Writer's pictureMarie Dona, MD

I was told I have to see a psychiatrist, now what?

My name is Dr. Marie Dona, MD. I’m a psychiatrist with subspecialty training in child, adolescent, Perinatal mental health and Obesity Medicine.


I created this blog as a way to appropriately discuss mental health, combat stigma, spread awareness, and help simplify the process of understanding mental health and obtaining treatment if necessary to promote overall wellness.


Demystifying Your First Visit to a Psychiatrist:

A visit to a psychiatrist might seem intimidating if you’ve never been before. However, it’s a vital step towards managing mental health challenges and improving overall wellbeing. In this blog post, I'll delve into what you can expect during your first visit to a psychiatrist, aiming to demystify the process and address any concerns you might have.


Understanding Psychiatry:

Psychiatry is a branch of medicine focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health, including substance use disorders. They can prescribe medication, provide psychotherapy, and use a range of strategies to help manage mental health conditions. They completed medical school, and have credentials of MD (Doctor of Medicine) or DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine)


The First Appointment:

1. Initial Consultation: The first visit usually lasts for an hour or more. During this time, the psychiatrist will ask a series of questions to understand your symptoms, mental and medical history, lifestyle, relationships, and other aspects of your life. This conversation helps them form an initial assessment and diagnosis.

2. Evaluation: You might also be asked to fill out self-assessment forms or questionnaires. These tools help your psychiatrist gain a more comprehensive understanding of your emotional state and symptoms.

3. Discussion: Once the psychiatrist has a grasp of your situation, they will discuss the diagnosis and potential treatment options with you. This could include medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these. Remember, you have the right to ask questions, voice your concerns, and be involved in decision-making about your treatment.


During the Visit:

Psychiatrists work to create a safe, non-judgmental space for their patients. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:

1. Be Open and Honest: Try to be as honest and thorough as possible when discussing your symptoms and feelings. Remember, there’s no right or wrong thing to say, and everything you share is confidential.

2. Prepare Ahead: Before your visit, make a list of any symptoms, questions, or concerns you have. This will ensure you don’t forget to mention anything important.

3. Take Notes: During the discussion, you may want to take notes about the diagnosis, treatment plan, and any other important details. This helps you remember key points and prepares you for any follow-up appointments.


After the Visit:

Following your visit, it’s important to reflect on the experience. Did you feel comfortable with the psychiatrist? Did they listen and answer your questions? Did you feel included in the treatment decisions? These are important factors in forming a therapeutic alliance with your psychiatrist.


Conclusion:

Seeing a psychiatrist for the first time can be a pretty significant step toward better mental health. While it might seem initially daunting, remember that these professionals are there to help you navigate your journey to wellness. With honesty, preparation, and open communication, you can make the most out of your psychiatric visits.

Remember, seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a courageous step towards self-care and improved quality of life.

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