Getting The Most Out Of Appointments

The hardest step, often is asking for help. Perhaps you've told a friend or a school counsellor. Though often willing they may not know how to help you. Talking to your GP is often a good starting point or phoning the mental health unit at your local hospital, many now have specific adolescent workers. Often we are afraid of being judged or decisions made that we don't wish.

Appointments with doctors, mental health workers, or other professionals may make you feel nervous. It’s easy to forget what you want to ask or to come away feeling confused about what was said. Appointments with professionals can be very short, and sometimes you have to wait a long time to get one, so it’s important to get the most out of every meeting.

You may find the following tips useful:

* If you make an appointment to see someone and you feel uncomfortable going on your own, take a friend or family member with you. They can provide support and help you remember what was said
* Before your appointment, write down all the questions you want to ask and make sure they've all been answered before you leave
* Write down the answers you're given. If you’re given the names of other people or organisations, make sure you write down the correct contact information
* There may be a number of support or treatment options available. Explain that you would like to know about all possible alternatives
* If something is said during the meeting that you don’t understand, don't be afraid to ask the person to explain what they mean
* Ask if there are any leaflets or other types of information you can take away with you
* If the appointment is with a mental health professional or counsellor you might want to see on a regular basis, use your first meeting to decide whether you feel comfortable with them and whether they are someone you think you could trust
* If you don’t feel that you are going to get on with a particular person or professional, go elsewhere. You have the right to choose. What matters is that you get the help you need
* Don't forget, you don't have to take any help or advice if it doesn't feel right.

The last 2 points are important to me. You are the consumer, Dr's are not Gods, and not all Counsellors suit all clients. If in anyway you are not happy, satisfied or confident in the person, then shop around but be clear with your motivations. I once didn't see a counsellor as all had told me 'This guy is tough but good, he can really help', I think I was totally scared it may work (if that makes sense) and I chose a woman who was nice but not really effective.

You need to keep thinking 'I am the most important here' but its hard at a time when you are emotionally exhausted and not feeling empowered. Being informed is one of the most important steps you can take both with SH and life in general. Take a friend who knows your needs, can help 'translate' or just repeat back what was said later, if this helps you.

[taken in part from: Self Harm.Org.UK