First-time visit to the psychiatrist after 고민 and 고민

I hesitated for a long time before finally deciding to visit the psychiatrist, but I went in the end. I thought there might be others like me who are 고민ing, so I am leaving this review.

 

1. Things prepared before the visit

Since it's my first visit, I was quite scared regardless of whether it's a male or female community.

I think I looked everywhere.

First, I have summarized my symptoms as much as possible.

• Since when and what symptoms have you experienced? (e.g., difficulty sleeping for several months, loss of interest in doing anything)
• When during the day it worsens (such as feeling unenergetic in the morning or feeling depressed only in the evening)
• How it affects daily life (being unable to work or having difficulty meeting people)
• Do not cry or be overwhelmed by emotions when speaking (keep rationality)

 

I was worried I might not speak well, so I briefly organized my thoughts in my phone's notes and went.

 

I don't want to go to places with many people, and if I do, I feel suffocated or mildly anxious.
Two suicide attempts (when no one was at home)
- Shortness of breath, chest pain (tight, squeezing pain), rapid heartbeat - sudden onset, occurs regardless of morning, afternoon, or night
Rejects everything others say as negative
No matter what I think about, the conclusion always leads to suicide.
Worsening during PMS period

Briefly note down the main symptoms to organize in your mind.

2. Hospital Visit & Medical Treatment Process

Since the wait time wasn't long, I went into the consultation room quickly. The doctor encouraged me to speak comfortably, so I was able to talk calmly.

• Recently, they asked about difficult experiences, whether you usually have mood swings, and if you often cry.
• You also asked about family history and past psychiatric treatment experiences.
• After listening to the symptoms and asking a few additional questions, they explained the current condition.

The important thing is to speak honestly.
If you hide or downplay your symptoms unnecessarily, it can be difficult to get an accurate diagnosis. At first, it was a bit awkward, but as I tried to speak as honestly as possible, I gradually started sharing more personal stories.

 

3. Prescription & Subsequent Plan

I received a prescription after the consultation, but since they said there might be side effects, I decided to take it slowly and get used to it.

• If you experience any adverse effects or discomfort with the medication, they told you to come back for consultation immediately.
• We decided to monitor the condition for about a month and visit again.

4. Cost & Support Information

The total cost was about 130,000 won, including consultation fees and medication costs.

Actually, I was surprised because it turned out to be more than I expected, but maybe because it was my first visit, I had a lot of tests done.
Depending on the area, you may be able to receive mental health treatment support from the mental health welfare center, so it might be good to check in advance.

5. Impressions

Since it was my first time going, I was very nervous, but I was able to consult more comfortably than I expected. I felt much relieved compared to when I was just 고민ing alone, and I thought it was a good decision to go.

I was diagnosed with severe anxiety disorder, depression, and panic disorder, and I received medication prescriptions, which greatly improved my symptoms.

I am currently undergoing medication treatment for about two months and also receiving counseling therapy.