Going to GP on Wednesday to ask for help

[PippaMiddletonsEyeliner]

Have NC'd for this, rather than it being my first post.

I've struggled with moderate to severe depression for most of my adult life.

Along with many other things that are stopping me from living a full life, I've decided that this is the year I wake up to the fact that I can't manage the condition myself and I need some help to get on top of it.

I've been to the GP before now for depression, shortly after my dad died, but got nervous on arrival and downplayed my symptoms, so I just got referred for bereavement counselling. I've cancelled other appointments made for the same purpose.
I really don't want to bottle out again, so wondered whether writing everything down is the way to go, then I can just give this to the doctor? Do you think this is worthwhile?

Any advice on what I might expect in the consultation / as first steps would really be appreciated, thank you in advance.

[NeverKnowinglyUnderstood]

Well done! honestly knowing you need to go and get support means you are in a better place than you could be.
I went in 2008 to tell the GP I needed help as I had attempted suicide.

I was so worried about all sorts of things.. were they going to take my kids away.. were they going to lock me up in a padded cell.

I think writing it down is a super idea. as long as you can get into the room you are then on the road to recovery. even if what you write is exactly what you wrote above you have started the conversation.

I was aware that there would be procedures that needed to be followed. But then I guess I had told her some scarey stuff.
I felt nothing other than supported. At no point did I feel like I was wasting her time. I sobbed like a baby and after we got to the end of my appointment she guided me through a side door so I didn;t have to walk through the waiting room in such a state.

It has been the best thing I ever did, definately not a quick fix but now 3 years later I could not be happier with my lot.

Good luck keep in touch. I am sure it will be really positive step for you.

[moggiek]

Hi Pippa - how did it go with the GP?

[NeverKnowinglyUnderstood]

bump/// Pippa. you around?