Assessment with Psychiatrist

[PennyPebbles]

I've just changed GP surgery as my old GP retired. The new GP has referred me to a psychiatrist, and I got a phone call today to say I will have an appointment in 3 weeks for an assessment with the Psychiatrist.

Any idea what this will involve? Worried I'll either end up sectioned or discharged! I find it extremely difficult to talk about things. I have seen a psychiatrist for about 10 minutes through the Crisis Team but I can't actually recall much of it as I was tranquilised and in a really bad way.

Don't worry about being sectioned. They are desperate to keep people out of hospital because of lack of beds. I've seen various psychiatrists over the past 7 years and they've all been different. All quite nice (apart from one) and just ask questions about your mental health and how you spend your time. The most useful thing is they can review your meds and up the dose or change them altogether, or add one to the one you're already taking. I don't know what your MH issue is - mine's a recurring depressive disorder and they've tried everything, none very successful but at least I have a hope the might hit on the right combination one day!

Thanks. I know I'm being ridiculous, but I'm exceptionally anxious at the moment. I've been suffering with depression and PTSD since 2009 but just been treated by GP with ever changing ADs and a few intervals with the crisis team. New GP says we have reached the end of the line with what she can prescribe so psychiatrist it is.

I'm a teacher so I spend my time marking in different colour pens. I live a life of excitement. At least it gives me something to do of a sleepless night.

In your situation an appintment with a psychiatrist sounds like a really positive step. They will talk a bit about your history in the assessment. When things started, what medication you've been on etc. And then ask you what your struggles are at the moment. You'll probably be asked about your sleep and your appetite too. Don't worry about it though. You definitely won't be sectioned. My guess is that they will make a follow up appointment for you in a few months time to see how your medication is going, or potentially just refer you back to your GP. They may also offer you a community mental health nurse to have regular appointments with. It's not scary. Be as honest as you can be and you'll be able to get the support that you need