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| *Women health>>>Depression |
Which Should I go to, a Psychiatrist or a Psychologist if I am having panic attacks & bouts of depression? |
I am a 35 year old man and I know I need to talk to one of the two. I have had emotional problems my whole life that I have never dealt with, abusive childhood, low self esteem, drug addiction and so much more. About 6 months ago though I started having these crazy panic attacks where it feels like I am having a Heart Attack and no matter what I do or say I can't make them stop. I was just hoping someone out there has the same problem and knew which would be better to go to. I am making an appointment somewhere tomorrow. Thank you In a way, the answer depends on where you live and whether you need prescription medications. Psychologists CAN now prescribe medications in many states. In many cases, psychologists are quite good at working with patients who have anxiety and depression, and if finances are an issue, psychologists' fees are usually lower. In some states, however, they cannot prescribe medications, and you'd need to see a psychiatrist for meds. Check with your family doctor. He or she may be able to help you, and if not, should be able to refer you. You've already taken the first step by realizing that you need some help. Good luck to you. The first thing you need to do is see your regular doc. Many times they can handle these issues and if not they will refer you to the right person. uhm, normally people go to a clinical psychologist first, just to talk about things, symptoms etc... then normally if it's necessary they'll referral you to a psychiatrist (able to perscribe you medicine). People with extreme disorders and feelings often see both. You need a psychologist. Psychiatrist are for people who are seriously ill, like schizophernia. Go to you GP first though, he may recommend someone. PSYCHIATRIST for sure!!!!! I second going first to your regular doctor, if you have one. They will refer you to someone locally who can get you help. If you don't have a regular doctor, I would suggest going to the health center connected with your health insurance. Failing that, many communities have a local mental health center. I would let a professional make the ultimate judgment on psychologist vs. psychiatrist based on talking to you. Definitely a psychiatrist. From what it sounds like, you need to be on medication in addition to receiving therapy. A psychiatrist can prescribe you medication (a psychologist can't). He/she can also handle your therapy needs and is not just for prescribing meds. Some people will tell you that psychiatrists are not good at therapy and are just "pill pushers." This is simply not true. A psychiatrist has gone through all of the training that a psychologist has, but also has the medical degree and the pharmaceutical expertise (and license) to prescribe meds. But that doesn't mean that that's all they are good for. They diagnose you, prescribe you medication as need be, and deal with your therapy needs. They have done residency at psychiatric hospitals and usually have a tremendous amount more knowledge in this field than do psychologits. All you need to become a psychologist (education wise) is a Bachelor's Degree. A psychiatrist, on the other hand, is a full-fledged doctor. I'm not trying to come down hard on psychologists and I know that they too save lives....I'm just giving you my opinion based on your question and what it sounds like YOU need. Talk therapy will take years before you start seeing results, but medication is what you'll need initially to feel better and start the ball rolling with the rest of psychiatric needs. I wish you a smooth road to recovery with all your issues. It's tough, but they can be overcome. Good luck!! |
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