Anonymous #1 5d

Don’t apologize at all for a long comment, I’m so glad I’m not the only one with this problem. I got a PCP for the first time in years, mentioned my issues, they told me it was anxiety and were very hurtful and genuinely gave me incorrect information. So of course I got a new PCP- but now I have to think: will they think I’m “doctor shopping”? I hope you’re able to find answers soon <3

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Anonymous #1 4d

I also have the same problem, and recently had a really traumatic experience with a healthcare professional last year who wouldn’t listen to me when I was in the hospital. My therapist wants me to get screened for OCD, and I do think I may have it, but it’s also been established that some of my symptoms are not psychiatric. I found if I’m upfront about my anxiety about not being believed and establish what I need. For me its a plan of action (like next steps if things come back negative)

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Anonymous #3 4d

The good providers seem to be more understanding of why I present so anxious in this setting after I explain that. It also helps if your therapist or psychiatrist think it is not a psych issue. What got me more tests was saying that psych referred me to my pcp. It makes it seem like it’s coming from someone else and not you (even if you are lying about it…).

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Anonymous #4 4d

I’ve found that most doctors (especially specialists) typically respond best to being told symptoms first, explain why it’s a big deal (headaches = can’t think, joint pain = can’t exercise), and only after they’ve discussed with you, ask about a specific condition (if you have one in mind). I do find priortizing symptoms (occur at least once a week) is helpful if you have like 20+ symptoms. It’s helpful to tell them about treatments you’ve tried, explain your modified lifestyle,

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Anonymous #4 4d

Doctors love to hear you’re getting enough sleep, exercising, drinking enough water, eating enough, and not feeling depressed/anxious. I try to be mindful of my responses (ex: for me 7 vs 8 hours of sleep doesn’t really matter, anxious 1x week is fine, etc.) and if it was something from a few years ago (especially psychiatric diagnoses) that isn’t relevant I don’t mention it. If they listen, I will in a follow up as an “oh, I forgot…”

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Anonymous #4 4d

I’m sorry, it’s awful you have to consider so heavily what to mention. I currently see a psychiatrist frequently and am on multiple psych meds, so there isn’t anything I can say to convince some PCPs that everything’s not “just anxiety.” Even though I’m not on anxiety meds. I will definitely try what you said about explaining why symptoms are a big deal. Thank you

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