Talking to a doctor or nurse practitioner about your health may always be nerve-wracking, but it can be particularly scary when psychiatry is involved. The sensitive nature of the underlying conditions and lingering stigmas about psychiatry can make patients feel uncomfortable. However, it’s important to push through these feelings and be honest with your provider.
Psychiatric providers have to ask many personal questions in order to do their jobs best. They may ask about recreational drugs, alcohol, thoughts of self-harm, and other deeply personal issues. Patients must know that their providers are not there to pass judgment based on these answers–they are there to help. Furthermore, they do not report drug use to anyone.
At LifeStance Health, our compassionate providers will do everything they can to make you feel at ease. Our online psychiatry appointments are encrypted and
But psychiatrists and nurse practitioners help most when patients are honest. Honesty in this situation helps keep you safe. Remember that everything you say is subject to privacy regulations, such as HIPAA. You may also consider scheduling some time for self-care after your medication management appointment, since you may have to open up about difficult topics.
If you want help from caring psychiatric professionals, contact LifeStance Health today. We are happy to answer any questions you have and adequately prepare you for any psychiatric appointments you need.