Im 25 & for as far as i can remember ive always had mental health issues but i only started addressing them 10 years ago..which isnt really addressing as it was go get meds and not take them & store them up but anyway last year i was finally diagnosed (severe GAD) but i really think im also either Avpd or Dpd (did) but how do i go about mentioning it to my doctor without sounding like im attention seeking? Like ive always kept quiet about my "blackouts" and some of my behaviour traits etc
Hello! I’m sorry for the delay in our reply, but now I can answer I really hope I can provide you with helpful information and resources. It’s definitely confusing when it comes to our health, but it is a priority and I hope things can be discussed soon with your doctor.
It is really important to keep our health up to check, and I’m glad that you are in contact with a doctor and have a diagnosis for GAD so that you can work on it. Going to a doctor is difficult, but you have done that step before and I know you can do it again. You need to talk to your doctor, as they can provide you with much more than we can in terms of recovery techniques and therapy. Your health must come first, as you are a brave and strong human being who deserves happiness like the rest of us. You can do this, as I know you have before.
Before you do talk to your doctor however, I would encourage you to go over DID/DPD and AvPD to ensure you have all the information on what they are, how they work and how they affect you. I have a page on Dissociation which looks into why, how and what it may be from mind. It even has self care methods and real life stories which I feel could be interesting for you to read and relate to perhaps. I also have a page on AvPD, which is not a mind website but still has some important information on the symptoms and what exactly the disorder is.
Some of the symptoms I have stated below:
Perception that they are socially inept.
Constantly using ‘always’ and 'never’ statements.
Blaming others for creating a problem rather than dealing with the problem.
Catastrophizing - always assuming the worst case scenario.
Depression and mood swings.
Escaping to fantasy worlds and daydreaming about ideal relationships.
Hardly speaking when forced to participate in a social situation.
Hypervigilant - having an unhealthy obsession with the actions, thoughts and interests of others.
Passive-aggressive behaviour.
Self-loathing and self-victimisation.
Tunnel vision - can only focus on a single concern while ignoring priorities.
Symptoms may vary person to person, however your doctor can fully diagnose you and guide you where to go next. It is confusing when we are feeling lost and doubting our health, and it can be isolating. But I promise that seeking professional help will clear up the worrying for you and reassure you that you are not alone. You are never alone; we are here for you and support you fully in your recovery. You can do this, as we have friends and family who have won these battles or are continuing to fight.
Mentioning that you are struggling to your doctor may feel like attention seeking, but your health is important and it is better to ask and find our information than to sit and worry. Our getting help page may guide you in how to approach your doctor, and hopefully you will feel more comfortable with the one you have spoken to previously. This page can help spark up questions to ask, or give you an idea on what to expect when speaking to your doctor.
You can do this, and you are not attention seeking. You are concerned about your health and you have every right to be just as much as I do. I believe in you!
