How To Talk To Your Doctor

How To Talk To Your Doctor

Opening up about your symptoms can be tough. Here's how to find help, what your doctor needs to know, and ways to make the conversation easier.

1. Know where to start. See your family doctor or a psychologist, psychiatrist, or other mental health specialist. Some employers offer confidential assistance programs, or you can check online for local mental health hotlines.
2. Bring a loved one. Besides lending emotional support, a partner or spouse can talk about symptoms you may not have noticed and provide other valuable information. According to some research, doctors who talked to patients and a family member had a 60 percent better chance of giving an accurate diagnosis than those who spoke only with the patient. Meeting with your doctor can also help loved ones learn to cope better with your illness.
3. Ask for a complete physical. There are no blood tests for bipolar disorder, but your doctor may order them to rule out other factors such as thyroid problems, HIV, or diabetes.
4. Be open about your symptoms. Most people first seek help when they're depressed, but they may not realize their depression is bipolar. Talking about your highs and lows will help your doctor see the whole picture.
5. Know your family history. Bipolar disorder can be genetic, so be prepared to answer questions about your family tree. Again, bring a loved one to help you fill in facts.
6. Take a proactive approach to treatment. You and your doctor will need to discuss the best options for medications, talk therapy, and possible support groups. Between appointments, keep notes on your ups and downs, changes in diet or schedule, and any side effects from your meds.
7. Don't delay. Many people with bipolar disorder suffer through several episodes before ever seeing a doctor. Get help right away so you can start feeling better.