How do you find a dr/therapist you can talk to?

[alfabetsoup]

I've been having a hard time since dd2 was born, she's now 11mos old. I don't really want to go into details but I do think I need some help. We moved to a new area about 6 months ago (part of the problem) and I don't have a dr or gyno here. I see a PA at an urgent care when I need allergy meds but I don't really feel comfortable talking to her about this. Also, I know she would just write a script for anything I asked for--great when you need a year's supply of allegra but not so much for the trickier stuff.

So how do you go about finding a good dr? I don't want to be messed around or fobbed off or overmedicated. I don't know anyone here to ask.

Thanks.

[faithsstuff]

hey there, I"m sorry I don't have an answer, just wanted to let you know you were heard and I'm in a simialar situation. I wish you all the best, and be gently with yourself
f
800 944 4ppd is the postpartum support in't helpline

[mamatolevi]

PSI is a great place to start. Other good places I'd try are mw/ob's offices as well as asking some doulas who they've heard about. Does your employer have an employee assistance program? They may be able to point you in the right direction as well. Call your former dr and see if they know anyone that may be able to help. I'd also try LLL.

If you're near a university or med school, it's worth check to see if they have a mental health program.

[alfabetsoup]

Thanks for the info. I've found some phone numbers & links that look helpful and it looks like there's quite a bit of support in my area.

Here is another question: how do you start? I'm sitting here in tears at the thought of picking up the phone and telling someone that I can't cope. I just know that if I manage to make an appointment and get to it, I'm going to completely clam up once I'm there. Or, AND WORSE, I'm going to completely lose it as soon as I say anything at all.

I don't know why but I just find it so hard to admit that everything is not perfect.

[FischK]

It is hard to admit that not all is well, but you've already done it by posting here. So, all you have to do is call one of those phone numbers and tell them the same thing.

It does not matter if you cry on the phone or during the appointment nor does it matter if you clam up. Both your doctor and your therapist will be able to deal with it.

When I was diagnosed with PPD, I cried throughout the entire appointment with my doctor as well as through a crisis session with a mental health counselor. Then, when I started counseling I was unable to say much about anything unless asked directly, and if I managed to speak I cried. Now, after almost 8 weeks on an antidepressant and 7 weeks of counseling, it is much easier to deal with it and to talk about my problems during counseling sessions or check-ups with my doctor. Good luck!

[ShineliketheSon]

Originally Posted by FischK

It is hard to admit that not all is well, but you've already done it by posting here. So, all you have to do is call one of those phone numbers and tell them the same thing.

I agree. It took me 3 days of phone tag to actually get the therapy appt made. And mainly on my part cause when they'd call back I'd hear the message but not pick up...I was relieved once it was made though. I go tomorrow, though I have been to therapy before it is hard starting with someone new. I know I'll be a basket case tomorrow morning, but am looking forward to talking. I know I'll cry through the entire appt, I guess I've accepted that and if you get a good therapist/doc they will be understanding and caring. If they aren't find another one. Don't give up after one if you don't click, there are plenty out there who will mesh with your needs and personality. Your off to a GREAT start....just keep going!

FischK: sending you ((hugs)).

[azgirl]

All I did was cry at first. After I had cried it all out, I was able to give background info and we could really started dealing with the issues I had. I just cried so much, it was hard not to be embarrassed. I liked and trusted my therapist right away, though. Good luck. It is so hard to take that first step!!

[alfabetsoup]

Thanks for the replies. I made an appt for a physical and will discuss it then. It's in 2 weeks so we'll see how it goes. It's kind of nice to know I'm not the only one dealing with this.

[ShineliketheSon]

Originally Posted by alfabetsoup

Thanks for the replies. I made an appt for a physical and will discuss it then. It's in 2 weeks so we'll see how it goes. It's kind of nice to know I'm not the only one dealing with this.

Good! If you feel really bad until then, see if you can move up your appt. I had my first therapy appt this morning, I really like her, it's going to help and I cried quite a bit, brought in my printd blog posts so that helped her to read parts I couldnt talk bout through the crying.

[Kessie's Mama]

I called the local midwife and asked who to see. She reccommended both a counselor and a doctor who has been reccommending herbs and homeopathics instead of drugs!
Also, I have been swallowing frozen bits of my placenta and that has been the BEST help.