Ruchie,
I am so proud that you have the courage to seek the professional help that you need. I work with students with disabilities everyday who are suffering from many different types of health conditions. Sadly many of them have suffered for many years with depression, anxiety, phobias and other issues on top of their other disabilities without the support of family, friends or even instructors who care about them. Students are referred to our office by instructors, RAs and other individuals who recognize there is a problem and that they care enough to help the student find the correct path. I have lost track of the number of individuals who have come in to our office discouraged because they haven't had the support all of their lives and are trying to adapt to college life, work and deal with all these other issues. In one of the articles I was just reading for work it was discussing the percentage (1 in 11) of individuals who suffer with depression for years without diagnosis. When the initial symptoms begin it can take up to 7 years before they are able to realize they need assistance. Unfortunately with college aged students they have so many changes going on that suicide becomes their only option. As I read your posting I saw many issues that are similiar to yours that some of my students face. I wish that they all could go further like you are to continue with the help they need, but also had the support of so many more individuals on their road to recovery.
I know it is easy for me to say, but know that the therapy you seek will be beneficial to you. There are few therapists out there who take advantage of their patients so don't let that scare you. It seems that we hear more about bad therapists than we do about the wonderful ones who make a difference in the lives of their patients who are now able to cope with their anxiety and phobias. Having sat in on a depression evaluation I can tell you that the process works best in being honest about how you feel and what your goals are in life. The evaluators really understand that there are times when it is hard to put into words what you need to say. Take your time...make sure they know what is going on. Additionally, one of the therapists that I admire for her work always tells her patients, if something isn't working after a few weeks let her know because change doesn't happen overnight but it does happen. She tries to make sure they are informed in the process and actively making the decisions that make their lives better. Some times medication is necessary, other times it isn't. I know it does take a bit to find what is right for you, and I have faith that it will happen for you.
Never feel like you are taking up to much space on this board or any board to deal with the issues you are facing. You have support and love here and will need that to make sure your therapy works. Please know how much I wish the best for you in your recovery and that I will be thinking and praying for you. *hugs*
Michelle
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