Considering to go to a psychiatrist

[throwaway123]

Any tips?
I've been thinking about this for a year now and I haven't made a decision. My mental health is just deteriorating away and I need help. I can't keep up with my life anymore. I'm going to get into trouble for this but I think it's worth trying out. I don't have much options now anymore.

 

[Walilamdzi]

Hi, which part of the world are you from? I'm from the UK and it didn't really help me, but if you don't have options there's no harm in trying.

 

[timf]

A psychiatrist will be inclined to provide a medication. This may require some experimentation in regard to the type and dosage. Some experiments can not go well so you may want to prepare yourself by limiting your initial expectations.

Some medications like Lithium for bipolar disorder can require a lengthy time to "fine tune".

You may wish to find a mental health support group and learn from others what they found to be effective as well as doctors who might be more skilled.

 

[Quarky00]

What do you mean going to get into trouble for this? ...

You're a veteran member and probably heard all the stories and know the drill. It may be worth checking out meds but the path it pretty clear: try med X for 2-3 months , if not getting better try med Y for 2-3 months , etc ; then tinker with it or use addons (adjacent medication). You probably know that a psychiatrist is 'just a doctor' , only there to prescribe pills for illness , so it won't replace therapy/rehabilitation/coping.

A combination of medication and therapy (not 'therapist' but working daily on coping) can be helpful for a lot of people. The side effects , trials , and the long time it takes to work harms many people.

Try to look for an attentive psychiatrist that can do a follow-up every couple of weeks (most won't) , and supplement that process with a lot of support and daily therapeutic activities. Be prepared for coping with side effects.