How to Tell Your Spouse to Talk With a Psychiatrist
- 1). Research and collect as much information on mental health problems and treatments as you can. You may need to explain things to your spouse or argue a point. The more informed you are on the subject, the better the chances your talk with him will be a success.
- 2). Work out how you intend to approach the subject with your spouse -- write it down if you believe this will help you. It is important you remain calm when you talk to her and try not to become angry or make ultimatums. There is a good chance she will be in denial, and may even believe seeking professional help is not necessary, according to a May 2010 AsiaOne Health website article.
- 3). Start by asking him how he is feeling. Tell him you have noticed his behavior has been different of late and you are concerned about him. Loss of appetite, irritability, insomnia and poor memory are some of the symptoms associated with clinical depression, according to a March 2010 WebMD website article. If he has displayed these symptoms or any different ones, inform him you have noticed and let him know of your concerns.
- 4). Recommend she make an appointment with your family doctor. The initial first step will be difficult for her, as admitting she may need help will be upsetting. She is likely to be much more open and honest with a doctor she is familiar with, says a HelpGuide.Org website article. Offer your support during the appointment if she wants it.
- 5). Write down all his symptoms, no matter how trivial. He will obviously have to add how he has been feeling, but your input will give the doctor an outsider's opinion. This will help the doctor make an informed diagnosis and prescribe any appropriate medication. The doctor may advise seeking help from a psychiatrist or psychologist. Your spouse is more likely to listen to a doctor's advice to see a professional than if you had mentioned it.
- 6). Offer your continuing support, making it clear to her that you intend to help as much as you possibly can. She is likely to feel bad about herself, and see her treatment as an indication she is a failure to her family. The only way to help her overcome these feelings is to support her and show her how important she is to you and the whole family.
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