Is Directness the Norm for Psychiatrists?
At 17 years old, I found myself in a psychiatric unit after a serious incident. I had taken an overdose of Xanax and consumed alcohol shortly after losing my father, which resulted in a mandatory 72-hour observation period. During my time there, I spoke with a psychiatrist who questioned me about my university applications and future aspirations. When I affirmed that I indeed had plans for my education, her reaction suggested to me that it indicated a lack of suicidal tendencies on my part. This response left me feeling rather dismissed and invalidated in my feelings. In contrast, I did find the nurses to be genuinely compassionate and supportive throughout my stay.
Answers (1)
4/3/2025, 4:40:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like your experience in the psychiatric unit was quite mixed, and it's completely valid to have mixed feelings about how you were treated during that time. The direct approach taken by some psychiatrists can sometimes feel cold or dismissive, especially when discussing sensitive topics like mental health and grief. Let’s break this down and explore your feelings and what you may find helpful moving forward.
Understanding Directness in Psychiatry
Psychiatrists aim to assess a patient’s mental state, which can sometimes lead to straightforward questioning about future plans or interests. This is often intended to gauge levels of hope or motivation, which can be important indicators of mental health. However, it’s equally important for them to validate feelings and provide emotional support, which, as you noted, you felt was lacking in your interaction.
Importance of Validation
Feeling dismissed is a common experience in healthcare settings, especially when discussing mental health. It's essential for healthcare professionals to acknowledge and validate emotions, particularly after a traumatic experience like losing a loved one. Your feelings of grief, alongside suicidal ideation, deserve to be addressed with empathy and sensitivity.
Steps You Can Take
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Reflect on Your Feelings: Take some time to sit with your feelings about your experiences. Journaling can be an effective way to express and process these emotions.
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Seek Support: Consider talking to a trusted friend or a mental health professional who can guide you toward healing and provide a validating space. Having someone who listens can significantly improve emotional well-being.
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Find the Right Fit: If you have a chance to seek mental health support again, look for a therapist or psychiatrist who emphasizes a compassionate approach. It's okay to seek out practitioners who prioritize emotional validation and a supportive environment.
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Participate in Support Groups: Engaging with others who have faced similar struggles can provide comfort and understanding, helping to normalize your feelings.
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Practice Self-Care: Focus on self-care routines that bring you comfort, such as exercise, meditation, or creative activities like art or writing.
You’re on a path of recovery, and it’s crucial to surround yourself with support that aligns with your needs. If you want to discuss more about how to find supportive professionals or need more resources, feel free to ask. Remember, your feelings are important and deserve attention and care.
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