Stress Management
Talking with Your Doctor about Stress
Perhaps you believe you could benefit from stress management therapy, or the physical symptoms of stress have become incapacitating. As with other illnesses, a discussion with your physician can help you to get the treatment or find the resources you need.
Talking with Your Doctor about Stress
Here are suggestions from your About Guide for effective discussions with your doctor, geared toward discussions of stress symptoms:
- Before your appointment, think things through. In what areas of your life do you believe that you may benefit from stress management therapy? Have the symptoms of stress (headaches, insomnia, anxiety, etc.) become overpowering? In what situations do these occur?
- Make notes in advance. Even the most clear-headed of us can become intimidated and forgetful when confronted with a busy physician. List your concerns and symptoms in order of importance to you.
- While you are still in preparation mode, list all medications (prescription and non-prescription) you are currently taking or even occasionally use. Write down the exact name of the medication along with the dosage; don't count on remembering everything. Many drugs have an effect on moods and hormonal levels which can influence symptoms of stress.
- Arrive on time for your appointment. The doctor is day is stressful, too, and she/he will be better able to address your needs when not harried by time constraints.
- Don not just passively answer the doctor is questions or expect him/her to "draw out" the information you want to share. Be your own advocate. State clearly that you have concerns you need to discuss.
- Be honest in your answers and assessments. Many patients tend to downplay the facts when discussing potentially embarrassing topics such as substance abuse, sexual behaviors, etc. Remember the doctor is goal is to help, not to judge. You're not going to get the help you need if you don not provide accurate information.
- Explain yourself in specific rather than general terms. Think what, when, how much, and how long. Saying, "I feel stressed out all the time" conveys very little
information. Instead, you might say, "My stress has increased so much during the past three weeks that I have headaches every morning and sleep disturbances almost every night."
- Don't be afraid to ask questions. If the doctor uses terminology that confuses you, ask for clarification. Be certain you fully understand the doctor is conclusions and recommendations before leaving.
- Finally, don't be afraid to ask for a referral to another doctor or therapist who may have more experience in treating stress-related symptoms or may specialize in this area. Physicians are aware of community resources and will be able to recommend reliable contacts.
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