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Taking Charge of Your Mental Health: A Beginner's Guide to Seeing a Psychiatrist

Updated: May 5, 2023


If you’ve finally decided to take the step to see a psychiatrist to help you on your mental health journey, I’m so proud of you. I know that making the decision to seek professional help can be tough, but trust me, it’s a brave and necessary step to take.To ensure that you make the most of your first appointment and get the peace of mind you’re looking for, here are three tips that I’ve found helpful for preparing for your first psychiatrist appointment.


Tip #1: Write EVERYTHING down

First things first, the most important thing when it comes to starting on your mental health journey is awareness. It’s important to be aware of your own issues, how they affect you, and what helps. That’s why I suggest starting by writing things down. Jot down any triggers, issues you face, any medication you take, or anything unusual that has happened to you. Writing things down will help you remember important parts and ensure that you don't forget to touch on any of the points with the psychiatrist.


Tip #2: Know your family’s mental health history

Mental health challenges can be hereditary, so knowing your family's mental health history can give the professionals a lot of insight into your issues and what would be the best course of treatment for you. Ask your family members about any mental health issues they may have faced, whether they received treatment, and even what medications they used, if any. It would also help to know your family’s general health history, such as any history of heart disease, so that the doctor can eliminate any medication that could put you at risk for related issues.


Tip #3: Deciding if your psychiatrist is a good fit for you

It’s important to note that not every psychiatrist is a good fit for everyone, and that’s okay. To know if a psychiatrist is good for your mental health journey, notice if their approach resonates with you, and if you feel good and empowered during and after your first appointment. If you feel like the doctor listened to you, understood your issues, and has the experience and credentials to help you, it might be worth giving a shot. However, if you don't feel a connection or the treatment style doesn't suit you, there's no harm in seeking out other professionals.


Wrap Up!

Seeking professional help for your mental health is a brave and necessary step. With these three tips, you can better prepare yourself for your first appointment and ensure that you make the most of your time with your psychiatrist. Remember, therapy and mental health come with a lot of trial and error, so don’t be discouraged if you don't find the perfect match right away. Keep trying and seeking out the help you need, and I promise you will find it. Good luck on your journey, my friend!


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