www.nami.org/template.cfm?section=fight_stigma

www.covwarkpt.nhs.uk/makeadifference/Pages/HelpBeatStigma.aspx

Below are some things you can provide at your initial visit to help the doctor that are taken from www.oflikeminds.com :

• A description of your symptoms-when they started, what makes them better, how often you’ve experienced them, if you know, tell what seems to set them off.
• A list of family members who have had mental health problems. Family history provides important clues in diagnosing mood disorders.
• An overview of your past psychiatric treatment, including medications and psychotherapy. Which meds worked, which didn’t, and what side effects were troublesome.
• Medical history and any medical conditions you are currently being treated for. Tell your doctor or nurse if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant.
• A list of your medications: prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal products, and other supplements you’re taking. Don’t forget to include contraceptives. And tell the doctor if you have any allergies.
• Honest information about your diet, physical activity, smoking, alcohol or drug use, and sexual history. Withholding this information can be harmful.
• Relevant life factors, such as past or current abuse or stressful lifestyle.
• If you don’t understand something ask the doctor to explain it again.

It’s good to development a relationship with your doctor. I’ve been seeing my doctor for over 15 years and she is obviously very familair with what’s going on with me emotionally. She’s seen me at my worst and best. I laugh inside when I see that huge thick file she pulls out on me. I wonder what it says? I’m sure it has “CRAZY” written all over it. Don’t you wish you could just take a peek into all of those notes! Anyways, if you build a relationship with one doctor they will be become very familair with your moods and your personality. This will help them determine the right medication and plan of treatment for you. If you’re bouncing around from doctor to doctor you’re going to miss out on the realtionship that could potentially get you on the right track. You also need to be able to trust your doctor and talk openly. If you do not feel like you have this connection that it’s probably best if you see someone else (these are only my  opinions).

Once you’ve received your diagnosis you should be prepared to ask a few questions to help you understand what’s going on with you. The best thing you can do is ask, ask, ask! The more you know about being “crazy” the better off you’ll be! Your doctor should be more than willing to help you understand and answer every question you have.

Below are some questions you can start off with taken from www.myoptumhealth.com

• What is my actual diagnosis? Can you explain it in simple language that I can understand?
• What are the possible causes of my condition?
• What is the prescribed treatment: What are the benefits and risks?
• Is this the most successful treatment available? Are there other treatments available?
• How soon should treatment start? How long will it last?
• What are my options if this treatment fails?
• Do I need a follow-up visit?