Re: any anxiety/depression sufferers here?
Is there anyone who could answer my question (quoted above) for me, please? I'm just wondering what it's like. Is it like in the movies where you lay on a couch while the therapist takes notes? Heh.
I have had different experiences with different therapists. If you choose to see one, you should ask what therapy philosophy and methods are. Some therapists will let you lead the conversation and ask questions, some will start by visiting your past, etc. My current psychiatrist (MD) approaches things kind of like any medical doctor would approach a check-up: specific questions about my progress and state of being.
Any and all doctors/therapists should not be "judgmental" and if something makes you uncomfortable, you should say so. Finding a style/personality type/age/gender you are comfortable with might help. Personally, I find it easier to tell my weird stuff to a stranger because I know that our only interaction is in that room and they are trying to help me, plus they've probably heard crazier! (and yes, I did tell my shrink I was depressed about the loss of my hero Michael Jackson)
I have sought therapy three times in life and each time I am glad I did. In college I was a little stressed out with a lot on my plate, so a psychologist-in-training helped me talk through my anxieties and help me managed my priorities. Around age 23 I began experiencing panic attacks and some agoraphobia/claustrophobia, and a psychologist practicing cognitive-behavioral therapy literally turned my life around. And in Oct '09 I began seeing a psychiatrist and taking a medication after being depressed about MJ and also a job I hated (which I've since left). I'm really happy I sought help though each time it was really hard! At first I didn't want to admit I needed help, or allocate the money for it, or speak to a stranger, or have friends see me as "crazy." But I'm so glad I put all those thoughts aside and now I feel proud to talk about it openly!
My tips for anyone suffering are:
1) Find the right therapist. Find a way to see someone; there may be ways even if you lack money or are not mobile. Or discuss with your regular physician if that's all that's available to you.
2) Exercise (something you enjoy if possible) and keep doing it even if at first it seems like it's not helping.
3) Build a support network of friends/family/online buddies you can confide in.
4) Look for ways to help others. Taking the focus off of yourself some of the time can be a good thing, and the joy of helping someone in greater need may melt a little bit of your sadness for a while.
Love and hugs to you all!!!! :heart: