Debate SSRI's - The Evidence For and Against - Page 4

Auburngirl · #31 08-04-2008, 12:39 PM

Doctors can absolutely be wrong, but I've found my bad experiences with doctors have been absolutely overwhelmed by my positive ones. And at this point I've dealt with medical systems in four countries. I only encountered the prescription and being rushed out the door scenario in the UK.

There are bad eggs, and it is worth the time to find one you feel comfortable with, who listens to you and isn't threatened by being asked questions. I found that was critical for me, I have a lot of questions, it's my body and I want to know what is going on.

When I called the clinic to start dealing with PTSD (again) the receptionist booked a longer appointment, the doctor was really considerate and gave me a lot of options - including seeing a male or female psychiatrist, estimated wait times, resources in the meantime (including herself). She actually did say she could just prescribe me drugs but didn't think that would get at the root of things, and that I was welcome to come back and receive counsellign from her - but she thought it would be best to see an expert. And when I came back for something else she checked up on how I was doing.

At a time when I was really a wreck, and embarassed and really confused about what was happening to me, she was a godsent. In the past decade there has been a (much needed) shift towards emphasising people skills in medical school and, in my experience, it is paying off. Interestingly here there is a growing preference for female doctors and, as a result, it is harder to get a female doctor.

Roo · #32 17-04-2008, 04:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by anthony

Wow Roo.... that is a long time to be on a medication. Unless a medication specialist exists here, I would maybe seek one out in your community and see what they have to say. You can always find an expert in every area of medicine and mental health, you just have to look a little usually. I think someone who specialises in medication could give you a pretty good scope and idea of your question though. Would love to hear your feedback though if you do seek such specialist out about your specific request.

Thanks, Anthony, for your thought...lately I seem to be coming across a lot of information regarding long-term use and effiacy of SSRIs. I will look more into this and discuss with my MD...it's been on my mind for a while.

lolabrigitta · #33 17-04-2008, 08:35 AM

My husband , in the Canadian Military has severe reactions to the meds he was given. He was lied too when told he couldn't get better without drugs. All they wanted to do is add more meds on top of the ones giving him bad side effects. I had to go off base to find him help. Soldier on eh! Veteran Affairs advises that cognative Therapy is more effective.