psychiatric evaluation ???

[confused4lif3]

I went to my family doctor complaining of panic attacks and they refered me to a psychiatrist. What do they (the psychiatrist) ask you during the first appointment? Is it worth going to? If anyone knows about psychiatric evaluations please inform me about them. Thank you...

[TheWizard]

I see one regukarly and its no big deal. He'll ask a lot of questions and you give him honest answers so he can help you.

I get paniuc attacks too. He gave me imipramine hcl and it worked great. No more panic attacks.

The most important thing is telling him the truth. If you don't then he can't really help you. If you tell him everything he WILL help you. Also, he can't tell your parents what you say. Great :)

[confused4lif3]

How long does an evaluation last usually? Do you know? Do psychiatrists make you tell you answers or can you reply "I would rather not answer that question?"

[TheWizard]

How long does an evaluation last usually? Do you know? Do psychiatrists make you tell you answers or can you reply "I would rather not answer that question?"

It takes several visits depending on how things go. You don't have to tell him anything but if you don't its a waste of time going. My doctor is the second most important person in my life. He didn't give up on me when I tried to kill myself. He was the only one I could trust. Glad I trusted him or I'd be dead my now.

[confused4lif3]

Thank you for answering my questions, I am not so afraid to go to a psychiatrist now...

[TheWizard]

Glad to help :)