Don't know where to turn or what to do

[Ovalbug]

This morning I had my appointment which turned out to be an initial clinical assessment, before being referred to a psychiatrist. I was with the chap for about 45 mins where we covered pretty much every angle of my mental state, both current and historic.

I tried not to self diagnose or put words in his mouth, nor was he willing to hint at any diagnosis, other than he said that much of what I had spoken about was covered under the broad spectrum of depression.

I guess my next session with the psychiatrist will be more conclusive - anyone able to comment on what the psych session will cover that wasn't covered today?

We spoke about drugs I'd tried at which point I respectfully said that my own research has pointed towards Wellbutrin (Bupropion) being a potentially suitable drug, to which he admitted that it was a common one they try off-label under secondary care - there is hope!

I've been back in work this week, so too busy to feel down during the day, therefore it's taken longer to kick in of an evening as my body and brain slows down away from work.

I explained today when quizzed about how I feel less depressed in work that it's a bit like an airline pilot coming into land a plane in a thunder storm, with high winds and poor visibility - the pilot is too busy and focused to feel anything other than to 100% concentrate and perform on the task in hand - only once the plane is at the gate and the engines are shut down can he or she then reflect on how they are feeling.

Hope that makes sense?

[Paula]

Completely makes sense. As to what the next appointment will be like, that varies from doctor to doctor in my experience. Just try to remember that they’re qualified and experienced in their field so their diagnosis and opinion on treatment is vital but you also should be able to have a say in what happens going forward