For the first time in a while, my anxiety is more than I can manage on my own without medication. On top of that, I've had chronic insomnia for over 15 years, not sleeping is a probably my biggest anxiety trigger, and I'm tired of begging my primary care doctor for ambien prescriptions. Twice before I've waited until everything fell apart and I was in a major crisis and dropping out of my life to seek help; I don't want to do that again.
I've had quite successful therapy (talk and CBT) before and been prescribed various meds by primary care doctors in the past, but I want to start managing my brain chemistry in a more proactive way. I've never seen a psychiatrist and don't know where to start. Yelp reviews? Standing on the sidewalk with a sign?
I'm in San Francisco, I have Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO insurance, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, and real desire not to have another nervous breakdown. What's my next step?
posted by anonymous
on Mar 19, 2013 -
13 answers
Recommendations for psychiatrists specializing in anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues in Boston (Financial District)?
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posted by anonymous
on Sep 27, 2012 -
2 answers
Please recommend me a psychiatrist and therapist in the Dallas area who 'specialize' in anxiety/dysthymic disorders. I don't have severe anxiety to the point where I'm a hermit or anything. I like to think of my self as a very functional social phobic. But the anxiety is still there enough to rear its ugly head. For example, I'm finding it increasingly difficult to connect with people as I get older. I've lived in Texas my entire life and all my best friends moved away after college. I haven't been able to develop friendships that are as strong as the ones I had in high school and college.
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posted by anonymous
on Apr 6, 2012 -
4 answers
Should I seek a second opinion about possible physiological sources of my fatigue, depression, and anxiety before contacting a psychiatrist?
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posted by anonymous
on Feb 23, 2012 -
16 answers
How do I pick a psychiatrist when I can find absolutely no information (besides the basics like contact info and education history) on any of the doctors in my area?
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posted by anonymous
on Dec 27, 2011 -
7 answers
I suffer from severe anxiety and PTSD stemming from an abusive childhood. I have frequent panic attacks, flashbacks, and bouts of derealization that are terrifying to me. I'm going to see a psychiatrist soon, and I'd like to know what to expect. Help?
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posted by anonymous
on Jun 30, 2011 -
10 answers
A fetish is causing me a great deal of anxiety, could anyone help me figure out how to deal with this?
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posted by Scrimshaw
on Apr 26, 2011 -
19 answers
What questions should I ask prospective therapists over the phone to vet them before making an appointment?
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posted by anonymous
on Mar 15, 2011 -
13 answers
When is it reasonable to fire your psychiatrist? Bonus question: If they can't be "fired", what's the therapeutic benefit to being forced to work with a doctor who you find unprofessional and do not trust?
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posted by grippycat
on Jan 18, 2009 -
28 answers
Does anyone have experience with Seattle Mental Health's Northwest Counseling Institute in Redmond, Washington?
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posted by anonymous
on Jan 30, 2006 -
2 answers
