What can we expect from a psychiatrist's appointment?

[Jitterybug]

DH has depression, he is actually having a good period at the moment, but in the last 12 months has had 3 or 4 massive lows where he has been unable to function for a few weeks at a time.

Obviously this is impacting on family life and work; the last episode was in January and the gp referred him to the psychiatrist, the appointment is next week.

As DH is currently in a good period, he wants to cancel the appointment as he doesn't think they will be able to do anything, I think we should go anyway to see if they can suggest anything to try and to perhaps stop these lows happening (he is already on antidepressants).

Will they be able to do anything or will they just see that on the day he is fine and not do anything? I don't even know what they can do to be honest, I just feel we need some kind of help, I am constantly on eggshells waiting for the next episode.

[FurryBallLover]

I was feeling fine at my last psychiatrist appointment. It was good that I was fine, as we were able to have a clear conversation about exactly what difficulties I have when I am not well, and talk about treatment options dispassionately. It's helpful for them to see you when you're unwell, too, but it's still worth going when you're well.

[Jitterybug]

Furryball thanks for replying, good to know he can still get something out of it.

[FurryBallLover]

Also, it can be SUPER SUPER HARD to get an appointment with a psychiatrist - think really hard about cancelling.

[oldjacksscrote]

Definitely keep the appointment, i thought I just had anxiety and depression, I had been struggling with post natal depression and psychosis. I also ended up getting diagnosed with EUPD.

They'll ask about his past as well as how he is now. I got asked if I had any super powers and if I thought the people on TV were talking to me! (They weren't) I'm now getting specialist help and I'm very lucky to do so.

[Jitterybug]

Thank you, all helpful to pass on. I feel he has never properly been diagnosed, so hopefully they may at least be able to do that.

He just feels so great at the moment, he doesn't see any point in going and thinks they will just say there is nothing wrong with him. It will end up being me that will have to keep saying things and reminding him of things , whilst he sits there smiling and acting like nothing is ever wrong.