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...but I would rather see a cat.
Cats
- Will listen no matter what I have to say.
- Are soft.
- Don't give patronizing advice.
- Are free if borrowed from friends.
- Don't secretly judge me.
- Can't speak English and therefore are incapable of talking about me to others.
- Share a love of towels and other common interests.
- Are fun to play with.
- Understand why hiding places are awesome.
- Won't dig for awkward memories and feelings.
The idea of paying someone to listen to me is depressing. It seems wrong to open up my intimate thoughts to a complete stranger. A psychologist is like a whore for emotions... You pay a whore and they will listen to just about anyone. Is that supposed to be fulfilling? I guess there's many different kinds of psychologists, but I have it my head that I'll be given missions like 'talk to a new person each day' or 'smile at strangers' (like I couldn't decide that for myself). Or maybe the psychologist will just sit there nodding his or her head and force me into a very one sided conversation (I hate talking to begin with).
The go to answer for anyone with emotional problems is 'get professional help.' I can only assume TV and movies are to blame for this automated response. Maybe a journalist wrote some article about how sad it is that so many people who are depressed refuse to see psychologists. It's so cyclical! They refuse to see the psychologist because they are sad! They are sad because they refuse to see the psychologist!
If I imagine society is like a human body, then I must be a cell which is not responding properly. In the interests of the human body, of course I'm supposed to want to respond properly to its environment! That's for the best of the body! Are the cell's interests ever considered? Well, the difference between me and a cell is that I'm sentient.
My problems are probably very trivial. Probably everyone has had them at some point. There, now half the replies to this thread will be redundant. My mum says she thinks I've been depressed since I was 10 years old. She's not really an observant person, but she might be right about that. Your brain changes when you're that age. It's supposed to change around adulthood too (the whole reasoning behind voting age), but I must be mostly thru that by now and it's probably worse than it was when I was a teenager.
Here is a reply I foresee in this thread "you probably have chronic depression; drugs might help you."
Well, I thought just having the bullet points would be a shitty thread, so there's the emodump to go with it. There's so many things one isn't allowed to talk about because it just fucks up one's life. It's usually easier to just smile and pretend you are happy... "Sometimes when you force yourself to smile it eventually becomes genuine." There's truth to that saying. I think most of this post is so negative because I'm being told there is something wrong with me. I have happy moments, I really do. It's not that bad... I'm just not happy all the time, okkaaay? Watching StarCraft: Happy. Listening to lawnmowers and people yelling at each other: Frustrated. Writing: Happy. Reflecting: Sad. If I'm sad more often than I'm happy, it's only because my life is sad, not because there is something wrong with me...
Bluurrhhg, Bllaaarg. Cat belongs to my friend. Feel free to remark upon its cuteness.
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I agree. And I'd also argue that cats are more theraputic than shrinks anyway! Most shrinks have their own serious issues.
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Wait, so are you really depressed? :O Hope you cheer up--pay a visit to the cute animals thread :3
Though nothing is a therapeutic as an actual cat...I'm allergic to them so I can't really do anything other than stare hopefully at them ><
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you probably have chronic depression; drugs might help you
Oh, the cat is soooo cute
No seriously, maybe you should listen to the advice of your parents. Shure, being at the psychologists is awkward, especially if he touches you makes you uncomfortable and feel like an idiot, but at least you will feel better (after many lessons). If you have real depressions, and I hope you have not, then even a psychiatrist won't be enough. If you're just naturally a kind of sad person, then it's okay. Some people are happy by being sad. You are unhappy when you are forced to smile, am I right? You are still young, the most important thing is to get a decent job, else you will feel even worse...
Omg, my advice sucks, but at least the cat is cute
I'm gonna change my signature.
Oh, and I forgot the most important thing. Having depressions HURTS ESPORTS! And not going to the psychologist also HURTS ESPORTS!
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United States12175 Posts
Psychologists have education and training in that field and are able to analyze behaviors and recognize patterns, similar to how a programmer is able to diagnose a software bug and recognize why it's happening and what's wrong in the code. If your parents are paying for you to see a psychologist, you might as well go. What he says may surprise you and you may learn handy ways to address any (real or perceived) psychological issues you may have.
It's up to you to decide what you want to do with the information he gives you. You can dismiss it as an incorrect diagnosis or you can entertain it and see what happens. A lot of young people get depressed, yeah, but only you know the severity.
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They can be really helpful, I think everyone should see a psychologist at some point in their lives.
We all suffer from alot of similar issues so why not see people actually qualified to help you overcome them. Friends and family might love you but they often give detrimental or unhelpful advice. Psychologists are not a cure-all but it's kind of cathartic to have an understanding, non-judgemental person sit there and listen to all your shit. You can also pick up lots of little tips (e.g. breathing/correcting irrational thoughts), some of which will stick with you, that help you manage social anxiety, perfectionism and depression (the ones I have to some extent).
Your problems are not trivial if they inhibit your ability to enjoy life. Why not see a psychologist? The same way you'd see a dentist if it was painful to eat.
One other thing, if you do a couple of sessions and have trouble opening up, try a different shrink. The ones I've been to have all been very decent people and far from patronizing, they're used to dealing with ultra-sensitive individuals after all.
Cute cat.
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Absolutely refused to ever speak to a psychiatrist/therapist of any kind, and it was the best choice I could have made. However, every person is different, so just because I am better off without seeing a therapist doesn't mean you are. Remember, there is zero point in you going if you don't want to go. If you don't want to be there, you can't be helped. Therapy is something you have to do for yourself, not other people.
Get a cat. :D
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That's unfair to call Psychologists "emotion whores". There are serious mental problems people can have that psychology helps.
But I will agree that depression is a very different matter. It's a complex problem that is different for everybody. I've seen a couple different psych's myself but only for short periods of time. I think they helped a little, there are always tidbits of wisdom you can gather from anybody. But ultimately overcoming depression takes a lot of time in my opinion and there's no quick fix. My mom tried to get me to take pills, and I tried them a couple of times, and I am absolutely and utterly against them.
Anyways, speaking from my own experience, I've made an effort to be happier and over the past few years things have improved, though I often still do feel depressed and things aren't perfect, I'm just able to manage it a lot better.
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I went to a shrink when I was having problems as a young lad with severe anger issues stemming from bullying. You'd think the solution would be, "Make the bullies stop doing their bullying." However, that option simply didn't exist in the world outside of myself, so I went. It didn't affect me right away. In fact, I felt the usual, and I emphasize usual, feelings of betrayal by my parents and the futility of the exercise.
Once I gave up resisting to my own sense of self pride and stopped making excuses, it actually started working. It is not as if they change who you are, which was my primary fear at the time. If anything, you become more 'you' than ever because you start shedding the elements that make you doubt yourself and your ability to make substantial changes in your own life.
Looking back, my problems weren't that uncommon even though they were "serious". Realistically, I wasn't being fixed as much as I was being improved past the norm. I can understand that it seems like you're going in broken and expected to come out fixed, but sometimes it's just going in unorganized and coming out fine-tuned.
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Male cats are really nice, social and fun but female cats are just agressive and well not cuddly at all.
As for psychologists I have alot of truble talking to them since I for an unknown reason look down on them as if they were inferior. Cant really explain that but I really doubt it would help to see one if you dont think it would help. Kinda like a placebo I guess.
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You're confusing a psychiatrist with a psychologist. The first prescribes you drugs, the other is more an emotional guide, helping you through your problems to either correct poor thinking or dissolve absolutes or analyze why you think the way you do.
That's for starters.
Secondly: http://videobb.com/video/T3BO0jWjUnQ1
It takes a lot of bravery to open up to a "stranger" in most cases, a psychologist won't even touch on anything important on the first appointment or even the second. Generally, they'll get to know you and help you if you want to be helped. They're only there for one reason, like a whore, and that is to appease your need to express without judgement or fear of being criticized.
My problems are probably very trivial.
No problems are trivial, purely the thought-processes behind them that make them seem trivial. Consider the idea that if these problems were so trivial, why are you so affected by them? In the grand scheme of life, your problems may be trivial in comparison to starving children and sex trafficking, but in your life, aspects and values. It might be a huge thing and an underlining issue as to why you act or feel the way you do now.
If you trust those who love you, what do you have to lose by seeing a psychologist? While a pet may soothe what ever is bothering you, a psychologist can remedy the roots of that bother.
Fuck everyone said everything I wanted to say.
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That is indeed a cute kitteh!
And I beg to differ, cats speak and alternate version of English called "lolcat". They even translated the Bible! http://www.lolcatbible.com/index.php?title=Main_Page
And concerning the rest of the post....
Your mother's concerns aren't necessarily bad. We have this idea of what is "normal behavior" and a lot of times when it deviates there might be an issue. In my RA experience it wasn't difficult to tell that someone was struggling. That doesn't mean I recommended all of them get counseling. I referred two (and one of them was a suicide risk) because the situation we'd talk about was outside their control. And therein lies the need for people like psychologists...
Ever since I was 13 I would have occasions where I'd get REALLY nervous about getting sick. Nervous to the point that I'd stop functioning. It got so bad in 8th grade I was having episodes daily. It was weird, but I just figured it's how I was and getting all worked up over something so irrational was just a weakness. It got a lot better in high school. They'd pop up every so often, but once again - this is who I am! Then my second year of college hits and I started getting these episodes nightly all winter. Then again the next winter. In fact, they escalated in to full blown panic! I haven't been officially diagnosed with General Anxiety Disorder, but I saw a therapist for a year and took medication for 2.5. Turns out having frequent anxiety attacks isn't normal after all....
But you're not me. For all we know you're fine. If that's the case then there's no harm in going to the emotional brothel, especially if you're not paying for it! Psychologists certainly don't ask you to bare your soul on the first day. It's a working relationship and as they get to know you better they start asking deeper questions. I had several instances where the therapist and I would talk philosophy!
You shouldn't be worried about medication. First of all, don't ask for it. Second, if you're diagnosed with anything and they give you pills as treatment make sure that's not the only thing they're offering. For issues like depression (and anxiety in my case) medication are training wheels. They make sure you don't fall, but at the same time they eventually come off and you need to know how to ride on your own. In my opinion, treatment for any disorder (read: anxiety, depression, and attention disorders) that hands out pills without teaching coping tricks is worthless. I got off my medication almost a year ago and in that time got through my first year of grad school. The high stress lead to a number of anxiety and panic attacks, but this time I knew what to do.
So maybe you're depressed. And maybe not. We've all got our emotional junk and the stuff that screws us up runs rampant. I think this post is evidence that you're thinking about it, so take your time.
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On June 18 2011 08:49 RedJustice wrote: Absolutely refused to ever speak to a psychiatrist/therapist of any kind, and it was the best choice I could have made. However, every person is different, so just because I am better off without seeing a therapist doesn't mean you are. Remember, there is zero point in you going if you don't want to go. If you don't want to be there, you can't be helped. Therapy is something you have to do for yourself, not other people.
Get your head out of your ass. How can it possibly hurt? You also can't know you're better off (which I highly doubt you are) if you've never tried it. Refusing to be helped is not a virtue, it's just stubborn.
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On June 18 2011 08:49 RedJustice wrote: Absolutely refused to ever speak to a psychiatrist/therapist of any kind, and it was the best choice I could have made. However, every person is different, so just because I am better off without seeing a therapist doesn't mean you are. Remember, there is zero point in you going if you don't want to go. If you don't want to be there, you can't be helped. Therapy is something you have to do for yourself, not other people.
Get a cat. :D
It's ignorance like this that make me truly question how people can live to a potential accepted by the general population. Mind you, I'm not being condescending of you personally, but rather what you're saying.
The idea that you refused to ever see a therapist and feel it was the best decision of your life is blatantly ignorant because if you never saw one, how can your actions be the best or on a comparative level if you never tried the contrasting side.
Nice Binary opposite champ, the bottom-line is, you're illusioned that it is the best decision you ever made probably by the anecdotes you've heard from those surrounding you or from the distortion of the media.
The best decision would have been to try for a session or two, if you don't like it: you can just step away and freely say that you felt more comfortable not engaging with a therapist than to do it.
Your approach is just lacking entirely.
Fuck this topic, I keep getting ninja'd hardcore
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There are far cheaper alternatives - e.g. Getting psychology self-help books out from the library. Truth be told a lot of psychologists aren't as well-read as the average person who is interested in psychology and reads up a lot on it.
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I'd venture to say the majority of psychologists become psychologists because of their own effed up minds or because someone close to them suffered from a mental illness. Of course, there are some that go into the field simply to help others, because they think they're so frickin superior in an emotionally well-balanced way. *rolls eyes*
Now let's see, psychiatrists dish out drugs - the majority of which have extremely bad side-effects, and the psychologists won't even talk to you until you see a shrink and are heavily medicated. lol
Nevertheless, when you're suffering from depression, it's not fun and some times you need a med for a jump start - the problem is, the idiots want to keep you on them forever.
When you're to the point where you can't get out of bed, you stop eating, your personal hygiene is non-existent, everything that once excited you no longer brings you pleasure - then seek help. You seem pretty content at present.
No offense to cat lovers, but dogs are more powerful in the emotional healing department. All pets are great at lifting ones spirits though.
Don't worry, be happy. lol
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You're confusing a psychiatrist with a psychologist. At what point did I do that? I'm pretty sure I know what the difference is, ya asshat. The only time I mention drugs is in my imaginary reply to my post.
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On June 18 2011 09:00 Arkansassy wrote: I'd venture to say the majority of psychologists become psychologists because of their own effed up minds or because someone close to them suffered from a mental illness. Of course, there are some that go into the field simply to help others, because they think they're so frickin superior in an emotionally well-balanced way. *rolls eyes*
Now let's see, psychiatrists dish out drugs - the majority of which have extremely bad side-effects, and the psychologists won't even talk to you until you see a shrink and are heavily medicated. lol
Nevertheless, when you're suffering from depression, it's not fun and some times you need a med for a jump start - the problem is, the idiots want to keep you on them forever.
When you're to the point where you can't get out of bed, you stop eating, your personal hygiene is non-existent, everything that once excited you no longer brings you pleasure - then seek help. You seem pretty content at present.
No offense to cat lovers, but dogs are more powerful in the emotional healing department. All pets are great at lifting ones spirits though.
Don't worry, be happy. lol
First paragraph is blatantly wrong. Where you got this particularly idea is beyond my own understanding, have you considered a therapist?
Wrong. You don't necessarily need medication due to depression (however it could be a chemical imbalance). That is the point of a psychologist/psychiatrist, to find out if you need medicine or not.
I bolded the next paragraph because it is right.
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On June 18 2011 09:01 Chef wrote:At what point did I do that? I'm pretty sure I know what the difference is, ya asshat. The only time I mention drugs is in my imaginary reply to my post.
Mm, I noticed that. Not sure why you're calling me an asshat when my intentions were purely benevolent (or why you singled that only misunderstanding out of a imitated reply similar to everyone else's with the same intentions).
Edit: I'm sorry if I implied you somehow knew less with my misreading/understanding.
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I would recommend you see the shrink once just to see what its like - it wouldn't be too hard just to try it out a one time and see how you feel about it afterwards (like a new food, right?)
I mean, there's no reason chef should be depressed because chef is awesome.
Also: I look forwards to your 7k :D
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you don't pay the guy to listen, you pay him to listen and then ask you the right questions so you start seeing your world from a different angle sort of (this is, of course, if you go to one that does his job right). i'd say just go and try it. you don't have to stay if it doesn't produce any results after like 5 sessions or something. It certainly did for me, and the best part is, since my GP attested depression, my health insurance (which is obligatory to have over here) paid :p and - no drugs involved ;D
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On June 18 2011 09:00 Arkansassy wrote: Now let's see, psychiatrists dish out drugs - the majority of which have extremely bad side-effects, and the psychologists won't even talk to you until you see a shrink and are heavily medicated. This is just flat out ignorant. Psychologists will talk to you whether you're medicated or not and the majority of drugs prescribed by psychiatrists have very minor side effects. Either you're making shit up or the state of the American health system is far worse than Australia's
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I have never liked the thought of psychologists analyzing myself, because I am a pretty critical person, and I find it insulting to think that some other person will understand myself better than I do after I talk to them for a little bit.
Maybe for other people, but not for me. If anything they are liable to get the wrong ideas about me, as I am pretty fucking abnormal.
chef you're smart enough you'll be like whatever you want to be, and if you reflect on yourself you'll figure out whatever you want to figure out
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On June 18 2011 09:02 Torte de Lini wrote:Show nested quote +On June 18 2011 09:00 Arkansassy wrote: I'd venture to say the majority of psychologists become psychologists because of their own effed up minds or because someone close to them suffered from a mental illness. Of course, there are some that go into the field simply to help others, because they think they're so frickin superior in an emotionally well-balanced way. *rolls eyes*
Now let's see, psychiatrists dish out drugs - the majority of which have extremely bad side-effects, and the psychologists won't even talk to you until you see a shrink and are heavily medicated. lol
Nevertheless, when you're suffering from depression, it's not fun and some times you need a med for a jump start - the problem is, the idiots want to keep you on them forever.
When you're to the point where you can't get out of bed, you stop eating, your personal hygiene is non-existent, everything that once excited you no longer brings you pleasure - then seek help. You seem pretty content at present.
No offense to cat lovers, but dogs are more powerful in the emotional healing department. All pets are great at lifting ones spirits though.
Don't worry, be happy. lol First paragraph is blatantly wrong. Where you got this particularly idea is beyond my own understanding, have you considered a therapist?Wrong. You don't necessarily need medication due to depression (however it could be a chemical imbalance). That is the point of a psychologist/psychiatrist, to find out if you need medicine or not. I bolded the next paragraph because it is right.
Your first paragraph, bolded above, is blatantly wrong. I bolded it to show that.
I bolded your third paragraph (which was one sentence) because I could. The point is, it's bolded now, so the letters are bigger and darker, making me right.
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On June 18 2011 09:08 travis wrote: I have never liked the thought of psychologists analyzing myself, because I am a pretty critical person, and I find it insulting to think that some other person will understand myself better than I do after I talk to them for a little bit.
Maybe for other people, but not for me. If anything they are liable to get the wrong ideas about me, as I am pretty fucking abnormal.
chef you're smart enough you'll be like whatever you want to be, and if you reflect on yourself you'll figure out whatever you want to figure out
there is no "better", there is just "different" as in "outside opinion" Assuming there was a "better" view would mean there even is a correct one to begin with. But i don't think there is. There's a lot of different views on the same thing, and none of these has to be more correct than any other. They might be just different. And sometimes, having someone else spark ideas that change your own views so you get a better understanding and awareness of your world doesn't hurt at all, actually ;P
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On June 18 2011 09:06 Scarecrow wrote:Show nested quote +On June 18 2011 09:00 Arkansassy wrote: Now let's see, psychiatrists dish out drugs - the majority of which have extremely bad side-effects, and the psychologists won't even talk to you until you see a shrink and are heavily medicated. This is just flat out ignorant. Psychologists will talk to you whether you're medicated or not and the majority of drugs prescribed by psychiatrists have very minor side effects. Either you're making shit up or the state of the American health system is far worse than Australia's
I think he's just making shit up. Or maybe he's just had an awful experience. Mine weren't anythint like that.
On June 18 2011 09:10 avilo wrote:Show nested quote +On June 18 2011 09:02 Torte de Lini wrote:On June 18 2011 09:00 Arkansassy wrote: I'd venture to say the majority of psychologists become psychologists because of their own effed up minds or because someone close to them suffered from a mental illness. Of course, there are some that go into the field simply to help others, because they think they're so frickin superior in an emotionally well-balanced way. *rolls eyes*
Now let's see, psychiatrists dish out drugs - the majority of which have extremely bad side-effects, and the psychologists won't even talk to you until you see a shrink and are heavily medicated. lol
Nevertheless, when you're suffering from depression, it's not fun and some times you need a med for a jump start - the problem is, the idiots want to keep you on them forever.
When you're to the point where you can't get out of bed, you stop eating, your personal hygiene is non-existent, everything that once excited you no longer brings you pleasure - then seek help. You seem pretty content at present.
No offense to cat lovers, but dogs are more powerful in the emotional healing department. All pets are great at lifting ones spirits though.
Don't worry, be happy. lol First paragraph is blatantly wrong. Where you got this particularly idea is beyond my own understanding, have you considered a therapist?Wrong. You don't necessarily need medication due to depression (however it could be a chemical imbalance). That is the point of a psychologist/psychiatrist, to find out if you need medicine or not. I bolded the next paragraph because it is right. Your first paragraph, bolded above, is blatantly wrong. I bolded it to show that. I bolded your third paragraph (which was one sentence) because I could. The point is, it's bolded now, so the letters are bigger and darker, making me right.
This is a really stupid post. Do you have anything to contribute, or are you here just to attack somebody and show how witty you are?\
Anyways, to the OP, as others have said, even if you don't think it will help, you might as well try it. It can't hurt, unless your shrink is absolutely awful.
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On June 18 2011 09:06 Scarecrow wrote:Show nested quote +On June 18 2011 09:00 Arkansassy wrote: Now let's see, psychiatrists dish out drugs - the majority of which have extremely bad side-effects, and the psychologists won't even talk to you until you see a shrink and are heavily medicated. This is just flat out ignorant. Psychologists will talk to you whether you're medicated or not and the majority of drugs prescribed by psychiatrists have very minor side effects. Either you're making shit up or the state of the American health system is far worse than Australia's
Sticks and stones..., as they say. lol
I think you should read the side-effects of psychiatric medications before you make that statement and how many people actually killed themselves or others whilst on anti-depressants. And yes the American health system is pretty screwed up.
Ignores the pasta kid completely - for reasons only he'd understand.
And to OP - exercise is great for depression - only you can't take a cat running with ya, can you?
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On June 18 2011 09:10 avilo wrote:Show nested quote +On June 18 2011 09:02 Torte de Lini wrote:On June 18 2011 09:00 Arkansassy wrote: I'd venture to say the majority of psychologists become psychologists because of their own effed up minds or because someone close to them suffered from a mental illness. Of course, there are some that go into the field simply to help others, because they think they're so frickin superior in an emotionally well-balanced way. *rolls eyes*
Now let's see, psychiatrists dish out drugs - the majority of which have extremely bad side-effects, and the psychologists won't even talk to you until you see a shrink and are heavily medicated. lol
Nevertheless, when you're suffering from depression, it's not fun and some times you need a med for a jump start - the problem is, the idiots want to keep you on them forever.
When you're to the point where you can't get out of bed, you stop eating, your personal hygiene is non-existent, everything that once excited you no longer brings you pleasure - then seek help. You seem pretty content at present.
No offense to cat lovers, but dogs are more powerful in the emotional healing department. All pets are great at lifting ones spirits though.
Don't worry, be happy. lol First paragraph is blatantly wrong. Where you got this particularly idea is beyond my own understanding, have you considered a therapist?Wrong. You don't necessarily need medication due to depression (however it could be a chemical imbalance). That is the point of a psychologist/psychiatrist, to find out if you need medicine or not. I bolded the next paragraph because it is right. Your first paragraph, bolded above, is blatantly wrong. I bolded it to show that. I bolded your third paragraph (which was one sentence) because I could. The point is, it's bolded now, so the letters are bigger and darker, making me right.
I'd bold anything notable you said but there isn't anything. In fact, you haven't said a single thing in relation to what I said, to the other party or the topic.
In other words, why do you matter in this topic whatsoever if you don't even have your own say or stance?
edit: now you did, finally.
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yeh, chef psychologists aren't gonna help you with a magical new realization on life really. You're a TL user, and most TL users are pretty educated...(I think lol). The people that go to the psychologist and are like "OMG I DIDN'T KNOW THIS, I JUST HAD EPIPHANY" are usually the idiots...or people with no common sense.
Soooooo...stay away from any meds they try to prescribe you, and if you absolutely have to see psychologist just get out of it what you can. If you're already OK, then you are. If not, then you might have another perspective on things or the person might be able to help you with something you didn't consider. Who knows.
gl
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On June 18 2011 09:19 Arkansassy wrote:Show nested quote +On June 18 2011 09:06 Scarecrow wrote:On June 18 2011 09:00 Arkansassy wrote: Now let's see, psychiatrists dish out drugs - the majority of which have extremely bad side-effects, and the psychologists won't even talk to you until you see a shrink and are heavily medicated. This is just flat out ignorant. Psychologists will talk to you whether you're medicated or not and the majority of drugs prescribed by psychiatrists have very minor side effects. Either you're making shit up or the state of the American health system is far worse than Australia's Sticks and stones..., as they say. lol I think you should read the side-effects of psychiatric medications before you make that statement and how many people actually killed themselves or others whilst on anti-depressants. And yes the American health system is pretty screwed up. Ignores the pasta kid completely - for reasons only he'd understand. And to OP - exercise is great for depression - only you can't take a cat running with ya, can you?
I don't understand .___.;;
And psychology =/= psychiatry. They don't both give drugs, so your view is a bit one-dimensional.
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You're my favorite poster on tl, I find it hard to imagine you having any serious defects :/. The cat is indeed adorable but a single photo leaves me wanting more. Thankfully I have a source
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HARURURUR psychiatrists psychologists screw that, that's not about Chef so that has no place here. And nice probe Torte, I see it reflects your posting quality
;p I kid I kid, cute Cat PsycHOTemplar
If it'd make you feel any better, I promise that any time I'm on TL (online) I'd be up to playing some wierd maps about waiting to Panic, if you've hear of them...
Another thing cute cat everyone has stuff they can't talk about. It's so deep down there and ingrained and bottled up that it feels it's impossible to get over, and impossible to get out. Fuck I've been there, there's been some pretty screwed shit im my life, and for quite a while there was no way I could get over it or feel any better about it, but when you can find someone to listen good things always happen:
I was having a coffe, at a cafe' OFC, with this girl I have the most drawn out, messy and tough history with, and I was supposed to be helping her with math (this advice is better than any girl-blog. I gave dat bitch math help. Bitches NEED math help. e.g. 20$ + beer = BJ), so as you can imagine neither of us were too keen to talk about math. Talk talk chat pay talk some more and suddenly it just came out and I showed her my scars on my inner arm where I'd cut and told her about it. Fucking hell I've never told anyone (IRL) about that in my life. Just sayin it could have been enough, but the great thing was that (must have been) by me opening up she was confident enough to confide in me as well, and she told me her big secret that she hid and hushed away, about dealing with anorexia leading onto bolemia and how she can't help but keep an exact tally of all the grams of fat, protein, sugar and carbs she eats, every fucking day. Now I'd never had imagined she would have been in that bad, and I really feel by the way she said it that it was as closey garded a secret as the one I'd shared with her, but by confiding in and talking with a very arrtactive member of the opposite sex someone great things can surely come.
By now you've probably blown your 7000th in here, and THB I'd much rather that it's well used to help you than just to bust out symbolic-celebration. So dude, if you've got anything to share you can always ask/tell us TL'ers (I'd stick to the BW-ers tho). If you doubt it's efficacity go and take a fucking look at DoctorHelvitica's last blogs and threads, COMEPETELY full of support and hope. So sitck with it man and hit me up any time for some BW
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On June 18 2011 09:28 bITt.mAN wrote:HARURURUR psychiatrists psychologists screw that, that's not about Chef so that has no place here. And nice probe Torte, I see it reflects your posting quality ;p I kid I kid, cute Cat PsycHOTemplar If it'd make you feel any better, I promise that any time I'm on TL (online) I'd be up to playing some wierd maps about waiting to Panic, if you've hear of them... Another thing cute cat everyone has stuff they can't talk about. It's so deep down there and ingrained and bottled up that it feels it's impossible to get over, and impossible to get out. Fuck I've been there, there's been some pretty screwed shit im my life, and for quite a while there was no way I could get over it or feel any better about it, but when you can find someone to listen good things always happen: I was having a coffe, at a cafe' OFC, with this girl I have the most drawn out, messy and tough history with, and I was supposed to be helping her with math (this advice is better than any girl-blog. I gave dat bitch math help. Bitches NEED math help. e.g. 20$ + beer = BJ), so as you can imagine neither of us were too keen to talk about math. Talk talk chat pay talk some more and suddenly it just came out and I showed her my scars on my inner arm where I'd cut and told her about it. Fucking hell I've never told anyone (IRL) about that in my life. Just sayin it could have been enough, but the great thing was that (must have been) by me opening up she was confident enough to confide in me as well, and she told me her big secret that she hid and hushed away, about dealing with anorexia leading onto bolemia and how she can't help but keep an exact tally of all the grams of fat, protein, sugar and carbs she eats, every fucking day. Now I'd never had imagined she would have been in that bad, and I really feel by the way she said it that it was as closey garded a secret as the one I'd shared with her, but by confiding in and talking with a very arrtactive member of the opposite sex someone great things can surely come. By now you've probably blown your 7000th in here, and THB I'd much rather that it's well used to help you than just to bust out symbolic-celebration. So dude, if you've got anything to share you can always ask/tell us TL'ers (I'd stick to the BW-ers tho). If you doubt it's efficacity go and take a fucking look at DoctorHelvitica's last blogs and threads, COMEPETELY full of support and hope. So sitck with it man and hit me up any time for some BW
): I h8 u.
I think overall Chef should consider seeking help of any kind. Then again, I don't know if he talks to his friends about his problems or anything.
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You should go at least once. It isn't like you're going to catch psychological issues by sitting in the lobby. Could be interesting, could be lame but will at least get your parents off your back.
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On June 18 2011 09:25 n.DieJokes wrote: You're my favorite poster on tl, I find it hard to imagine you having any serious defects :/. The cat is indeed adorable but a single photo leaves me wanting more. Thankfully I have a source
Sylvia Plath was my favorite poet.
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Sowwie Torte, I didn't mean to ruffle the <insert spirit-animal> within you, it's actually just curiosity, how come you've got that icon?
IMO it's better if you can get away with not having to pay them, but the important part of the message is TALK TO SOMEONE.
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The amount of utter ignorance in this thread is mindboggling. Seriously, just shut the fuck up if you don't have a clue about what psychiatrists/psychologists actually do. Maybe Chef could've used some good advice to clear his misconceptions on what doing psycho therapy would be like, what he got instead is horrible misinformation and utter fucking nonsense.
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Share a love of towels and other common interests. Are fun to play with. Understand why hiding places are awesome.
Those are my favorite, that cat pic is super cute to. 5/5 Chef be da man!
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On June 18 2011 09:08 travis wrote: I have never liked the thought of psychologists analyzing myself, because I am a pretty critical person, and I find it insulting to think that some other person will understand myself better than I do after I talk to them for a little bit.
Maybe for other people, but not for me. If anything they are liable to get the wrong ideas about me, as I am pretty fucking abnormal.
chef you're smart enough you'll be like whatever you want to be, and if you reflect on yourself you'll figure out whatever you want to figure out
If you were so good at figuring yourself out and then fixing things your life would be a lot better than it is. All your post is rationalizations about why you shouldn't take the chance and see a psychologist and why you don't need it, and why it wouldn't help you.
Psychologists are very, very useful. They provide the following:
1) Outside perspective. Everyone else you can talk to is biased. Your best friends want you to fail because it makes them feel better about their own failures, your girlfriend wants you to succeed at X but not Y because you might become too attractive and find a new girl. Psychologist is paid by you and you can end it any time - they want you to succeed, and if you don't feel that's how it is, change psychologists.
2) Confidentiality. Since your parents are offering (OP) to pay, make sure that the psychologist is maintaining the usual confidentiality with you and you alone. That means they share absolutely nothing with anyone else (e.g. your parents) unless you sign off on it. This is standard - if you can't get it, everything is worthless and you can't feel safe to share X because of possible repercussions when the psych tells your parents/whomever about it. If you do get this, and you will 99%, then you can share your deepest darkest things that would make people recoil at you without fear that people will actually recoil. Nobody else will know, and any psychologist who has worked more than a month has heard worse things than you can possibly tell them. You want to rape children? They probably talked to a guy who actually did, so say whatever you want. Nobody else in your life can provide this.
3) Theoretical/practical understanding of what's going on in your life and how to reach your goals. There are a lot of "just do X, then you'll be awesomer than ever before!!! also I luv cats lulz )))" Those are worthless platitudes from people that try to reduce the human condition and your life to some basic sentence: if that is possible, it's so generic and general that it isn't practical. Psychologists actually understand what is going on and to an extent why, and thus can provide ideas and information you've never thought of or realized before. This becomes more and more true the more you tell them - if they know all/most of your secrets, they can figure out a lot more what's going on that you are ignoring than your friend who only knows the "clean" version can tell you. Trust me, cognitive dissonance is very powerful: an outside perspective with most/full knowledge of what is going on in your mind can put a lot of things together that you didn't realize/ or are ignoring as a defense mechanism.
Also you can do whatever you like with a psychologist. There is no "do X today" missions if you don't want them - you are the source of the paycheck, you decide what you want. You might find though that you don't want to do something like that because you are afraid of what will happen - it's too scary for you for some reason, and you're calling it stupid/inane/useless/childish/clinical as a defense mechanism to rationalize a reason to not face your fears. Bottom line is you get to say what you want and do what you want - no psychologist is going to pressure/force you/require you to do anything you don't want. If they do, find a new psychologist.
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On June 18 2011 10:21 Orome wrote: The amount of utter ignorance in this thread is mindboggling. Seriously, just shut the fuck up if you don't have a clue about what psychiatrists/psychologists actually do. Maybe Chef could've used some good advice to clear his misconceptions on what doing psycho therapy would be like, what he got instead is horrible misinformation and utter fucking nonsense.
thank you. I love the guy who never saw a psychologist in his life and "it was the best decision I ever made." How that makes sense logically I don't know - that he is rationalizing his own choices to somehow be optimal despite having no clue about the result of choosing the other option is a great show of the irrationality of most people's thought processes and decision making processes, not to mention hindsight justification. Amazing.
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On June 18 2011 09:10 avilo wrote:Show nested quote +On June 18 2011 09:02 Torte de Lini wrote:On June 18 2011 09:00 Arkansassy wrote: I'd venture to say the majority of psychologists become psychologists because of their own effed up minds or because someone close to them suffered from a mental illness. Of course, there are some that go into the field simply to help others, because they think they're so frickin superior in an emotionally well-balanced way. *rolls eyes*
Now let's see, psychiatrists dish out drugs - the majority of which have extremely bad side-effects, and the psychologists won't even talk to you until you see a shrink and are heavily medicated. lol
Nevertheless, when you're suffering from depression, it's not fun and some times you need a med for a jump start - the problem is, the idiots want to keep you on them forever.
When you're to the point where you can't get out of bed, you stop eating, your personal hygiene is non-existent, everything that once excited you no longer brings you pleasure - then seek help. You seem pretty content at present.
No offense to cat lovers, but dogs are more powerful in the emotional healing department. All pets are great at lifting ones spirits though.
Don't worry, be happy. lol First paragraph is blatantly wrong. Where you got this particularly idea is beyond my own understanding, have you considered a therapist?Wrong. You don't necessarily need medication due to depression (however it could be a chemical imbalance). That is the point of a psychologist/psychiatrist, to find out if you need medicine or not. I bolded the next paragraph because it is right. Your first paragraph, bolded above, is blatantly wrong. I bolded it to show that. I bolded your third paragraph (which was one sentence) because I could. The point is, it's bolded now, so the letters are bigger and darker, making me right.
Actually the arguments within his reply were correct while your statements in your first post were wrong. The bold was to draw your attention to that. Bold or not, you don't know what you are talking about.
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On June 18 2011 10:46 cz wrote:Show nested quote +On June 18 2011 09:08 travis wrote: I have never liked the thought of psychologists analyzing myself, because I am a pretty critical person, and I find it insulting to think that some other person will understand myself better than I do after I talk to them for a little bit.
Maybe for other people, but not for me. If anything they are liable to get the wrong ideas about me, as I am pretty fucking abnormal.
chef you're smart enough you'll be like whatever you want to be, and if you reflect on yourself you'll figure out whatever you want to figure out If you were so good at figuring yourself out and then fixing things your life would be a lot better than it is. All your post is rationalizations about why you shouldn't take the chance and see a psychologist and why you don't need it, and why it wouldn't help you.
because that sort of thing happens instantaneously right? and because figuring yourself out isn't a developed skill?
I don't disagree with a lot of what you said, but I still don't disagree with any of what I said as well.
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Well if your mother is paying for it, why not go? Even if you don't have any issues it might give her some peace of mind. And perhaps you'll be able to better understand people who do need psychological care. In any case you'd get the opportunity to see if your stereotypes about psychologists are true.
I think one thing most people don't realize about depression is that average depression only lasts 6-18 months. There's this common misconception that depressed people are sad all the time, and that's simply not the case. People who are chronically depressed are often totally healthy for 2-3 years at a time until their next depressive cycle hits.
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I think most self-aware people are inherently somewhat depressed. Not as a general way-of-being, but just as an occasional state of mind.
Kitties, on the other hand, are consistently awesome. They are the perfect creation - they are soft, like it when we touch their softness, and then make sounds when they're happy. I sometimes equate my purring kitty to the little kid who can't hide his boner. "Uh oh, everyone knows how excited I am." But unlike the kid, they don't care because they're awesome. They just purr more loudly.
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On June 18 2011 09:19 Arkansassy wrote:Show nested quote +On June 18 2011 09:06 Scarecrow wrote:On June 18 2011 09:00 Arkansassy wrote: Now let's see, psychiatrists dish out drugs - the majority of which have extremely bad side-effects, and the psychologists won't even talk to you until you see a shrink and are heavily medicated. This is just flat out ignorant. Psychologists will talk to you whether you're medicated or not and the majority of drugs prescribed by psychiatrists have very minor side effects. Either you're making shit up or the state of the American health system is far worse than Australia's I think you should read the side-effects of psychiatric medications before you make that statement and how many people actually killed themselves or others whilst on anti-depressants. Mentally unstable people might kill themselves and others very rarely and often incidentally they will be being treated with anti-depressants at the time due to their condition. Murder is not a side-effect of anti-depressants -.-
I've been on antidepressants for several years, with 0 side effects beyond not feeling like shit all the time. There's a whole bunch of side effects with most medications that affect a very low % of users. Basically you take a course of one and if it seems to be working well stick with it. If it has 'minor' side effects affecting digestion or sleep, then you try another. I tried three before I found one that seemed to have no ill effects beyond the odd killing spree.
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Seeing a therapist REALLY helped me
Just keep switching till you find the right guy/girl. They are really smart people and some of them know exactly what to do and how they can help you.
Certain things you say like "your problems might be trivial" are real classics that psychologists can help you understand why you do and think the way you do
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On June 18 2011 08:21 Chef wrote:Cats- Will listen no matter what I have to say.
- Are soft.
- Don't give patronizing advice.
- Are free if borrowed from friends.
- Don't secretly judge me.
- Can't speak English and therefore are incapable of talking about me to others.
- Share a love of towels and other common interests.
- Are fun to play with.
- Understand why hiding places are awesome.
- Won't dig for awkward memories and feelings.
You can use the same arguments to get a cat instead of a gf.
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Ok, what the fuck is this thread. So many people in here that have absolutely no clue what they are talking about.
First of all, why in the world do people think that all the meds prescribed to treat mental disorders are terrible. To treat extreme problems requires extreme measures; for example, many drugs used for the treatment of severe bipolar disorder can have major side effects, and can even put the patient into a worse mental state. However, these are only for severe cases. Chef would be prescribed a low dosage of a safe, well documented drug. For mild cases, there is no need to try risky drugs with a lot of potential dangers. My girlfriend suffers from mild depression and GAD (generalized anxiety disorder), and she takes the lowest dosage of medication used to treat those disorders, when needed.
Second, why do people think that psychologists are something that only completely loony people can resort to? I personally have never felt any reason to go see one, but my girlfriend suffers from mild-moderate anxiety attacks when she is under a lot of pressure, as well as the previous problems I mentioned. Even though these weren't major problems by any measure, it really helped her to go to a psychologist. The one we saw was a very down to earth sort of guy, and I never felt that he pressured her into making any sort of decisions. He basically just sat down with us, listened to our thoughts on the matter, and made solid judgments based on what we told him. I never really though anything he said was out of line of my own point of view.
Many schools provide free psychiatry and counseling services, so you certainly don't have anything to lose. I feel like there's such a social stigma towards this type of thing, which is really bad considering how many people need it. It's really interesting to read through psychology textbooks and realize just how many people, even in your everyday lives, have a disorder. Many are mild, but some are game breaking in one way or another.
It's just really weird that people are quite willing to go to a regular doctor to deal with illnesses in their body, but really resistant to seeing a doctor for their mental state. It's not like mental illnesses are not contagious either. You can see this easily when you compare parents to their children, because a fucking lot gets passed down.
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That's one hell of a cute kitten your friend got there... :3
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On June 18 2011 08:34 Excalibur_Z wrote: Psychologists have education and training in that field and are able to analyze behaviors and recognize patterns, similar to how a programmer is able to diagnose a software bug and recognize why it's happening and what's wrong in the code. If your parents are paying for you to see a psychologist, you might as well go. What he says may surprise you and you may learn handy ways to address any (real or perceived) psychological issues you may have.
It's up to you to decide what you want to do with the information he gives you. You can dismiss it as an incorrect diagnosis or you can entertain it and see what happens. A lot of young people get depressed, yeah, but only you know the severity. Thats a pretty bad analogy. Psychologists are nothing like programmers because they cannot look at your "source code". They have to treat you like a black box and try to map i/o patterns to models of problems/causes. But especially with mild problems (like mild chronic depression) its hard to do that.
Really the thing suited best for really curing mild psychological problems is your mind. The more intelligent you are, the bigger problems you can tackle. JUST WORK ON IT! Set goals. Lay out paths to achieve these goals. Observe yourself walking these paths. And last but not least: observe others too.
You are your own programmer.
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I once tried to kill myself and was forced to talk to a psychologist.
It... didn't help me much to be honest. Just keep an open mind about it and know that it won't do much; rather it's going to be the first step in a series of actions fighting against your problems. And honestly you're going to think he/she is an asshole.
Just don't yell at them because that leads to more problems.
...GL to you. What fixed my depression was knowing that there are people who love me, but they just have the hardest time showing it. Everyone has people like that; don't ever think for a second that no one doesn't love you. And playing a lot of games and running. Try to keep yourself occupied with stupid shit because sometimes you think too much and your mind comes up with stupid conclusions.
Also to all the shitty posters here: Go make a shitty debate thread somewhere else because this isn't the fucking place for it.
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People actually believe that you go to a doctor to determine whether or not you need medication? With most doctors it goes something like this:
Step 1) Determine if he is depressed Step 2) If he's depressed, prescribe a drug. Step 3) If that drug doesn't work, increase the dosage (more $$$!) Step 4) If that doesn't work, prescribe a new drug.
You being depressed is an automatic qualification for drugs. Does anyone else see something wrong with that?
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On June 18 2011 23:00 shinosai wrote: People actually believe that you go to a doctor to determine whether or not you need medication? With most doctors it goes something like this:
Step 1) Determine if he is depressed Step 2) If he's depressed, prescribe a drug. Step 3) If that drug doesn't work, increase the dosage (more $$$!) Step 4) If that doesn't work, prescribe a new drug.
You being depressed is an automatic qualification for drugs. Does anyone else see something wrong with that?
Yeah, I do, because you blurred details and only skimmed half the things that happened.
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On June 18 2011 09:10 avilo wrote: Your first paragraph, bolded above, is blatantly wrong. I bolded it to show that.
I bolded your third paragraph (which was one sentence) because I could. The point is, it's bolded now, so the letters are bigger and darker, making me right.
The only thing I find funnier than this post, is Chef's ability to read people so accurately: Here is a reply I foresee in this thread "you probably have chronic depression; drugs might help you."
And, Chef, you're absolutely right:
Cats ('cept you forgot about dogs)
Will listen no matter what I have to say. Are soft. Don't give patronizing advice. Are free if borrowed from friends. Don't secretly judge me. Can't speak English and therefore are incapable of talking about me to others. Share a love of towels and other common interests. Are fun to play with. Understand why hiding places are awesome. Won't dig for awkward memories and feelings.
It's understandable that people interpret the text as they wish; however, it's pretty sad when people simply ignore the title: MY PARENTS Want Me to See a Psychologist...
Nowhere in your post did I read that YOU think you're depressed and nowhere did I see, "people of TL, please help me with your advice." All I saw was "Cat belongs to my friend. Feel free to remark upon its cuteness."
Too funny!
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You are taking SC2 ascension over BW that hard, eh??? =[
On June 18 2011 08:34 Excalibur_Z wrote: Psychologists have education and training in that field and are able to analyze behaviors and recognize patterns, similar to how a programmer is able to diagnose a software bug and recognize why it's happening and what's wrong in the code. If your parents are paying for you to see a psychologist, you might as well go. What he says may surprise you and you may learn handy ways to address any (real or perceived) psychological issues you may have.
It's up to you to decide what you want to do with the information he gives you. You can dismiss it as an incorrect diagnosis or you can entertain it and see what happens. A lot of young people get depressed, yeah, but only you know the severity.
You should listen to this for real though. No one here can know if you've got serious enough issues that merit a doc, and your parents could quite easily overreact for any kind of things (you prefering a hobby or something they don't care for... who knows) However, you yourself could be downplaying it out of your own reluctance to go see a professional. Or it could be completely trivial shit as you said, some kind of phase or whatever.
However, since it is paid for and a family member cared enough to mention it, it's kind of a no lose situation for the quoted reasons. No quack worth his salt is gonna spill your darkest bw fetishes to your parents, but if it makes you more comfortable I'm sure he'd sign something.
can't hurt to go. just don't dismiss it out of hand, but at the same time, after you go home, reflect on it and think if it is correct in anyway. You'll need more than a session or two to get any kind of progress
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Hmm... those are pretty convincing arguments. Maybe I should get a cat.
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United States22883 Posts
On June 18 2011 09:06 Scarecrow wrote:Show nested quote +On June 18 2011 09:00 Arkansassy wrote: Now let's see, psychiatrists dish out drugs - the majority of which have extremely bad side-effects, and the psychologists won't even talk to you until you see a shrink and are heavily medicated. This is just flat out ignorant. Psychologists will talk to you whether you're medicated or not and the majority of drugs prescribed by psychiatrists have very minor side effects. Either you're making shit up or the state of the American health system is far worse than Australia's Keep in mind the average TLer is completely ignorant of the distinction between psychologist and psychiatrist, just as they are between finances and economics, and politics and political science.
Chef, Excalibur_Z is a bright guy, what he said is true. It may work or it may not, but keep in mind there's probably a well trained person on the other side. That doesn't mean to concede to their opinion. Just treat it with your normal academic curiosity and see where it goes.
Arkansassy, psychologists hold PhDs. Psychiatrists hold MDs. Only one of those can prescribe medicine. In short, you don't have a clue of what you're talking about.
The end of the WebMD article puts the process nicely.
Whose Therapy Is Best?
Ask any of the three professionals who provide the best psychotherapy, they will all tell you their own specialty is the most skilled.
You could have a great therapeutic relationship, or a bad experience, with any of them.
"The professional credentials alone don't determine that someone would be helpful to any particular patient," says Rebecca Curtis, PhD, a professor of psychology at Adelphi University in Garden City, N.Y., and director of research at the W.A. White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Psychoanalysis in New York.
Nevertheless, she says experience and training matter at least as much as the therapist's personal qualities and the relationship between the patient and the provider. She advises people to interview a potential therapist carefully. Although you may want to get right to talking about your issues, "ask them specifically about their training during the initial session," she tells WebMD.
"Everybody thinks they can sit down and talk to people and be helpful," she says, "but it really helps to have a lot of experience and training."
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On June 19 2011 06:06 Jibba wrote: Keep in mind the average TLer is completely ignorant of the distinction between psychologist and psychiatrist, just as they are between finances and economics, and politics and political science.
Chef, Excalibur_Z is a bright guy, what he said is true. It may work or it may not, but keep in mind there's probably a well trained person on the other side. That doesn't mean to concede to their opinion. Just treat it with your normal academic curiosity and see where it goes.
Arkansassy, psychologists hold PhDs. Psychiatrists hold MDs. Only one of those can prescribe medicine. In short, you don't have a clue of what you're talking about.
I highlighted your opening paragraph as I believe that's an insult to the "average TLer." I mean if I were average, I'd certainly be insulted. lol
The last paragraph, in reference to me, is highlighted because you are so wrong. As a volunteer for Hospice and our local suicide hotline, I have worked with many psychologists and psychiatrists (some good friends) I can tell you that many psychologists do not hold a PhD. So in short, you don't have a clue what you're talking about.
Prior to that, when I was working toward my degree in the performing arts, students would - many times - consult psychologists for insight into characters.
I don't just spit out information that I obtained from a website. :D
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I actually see a psychologist and initially I had the same reaction as you.. I was fucking pissed at my parents and thought the whole thing was a bullshit scam. Actually I found the psychologist is legitimately helpful and gets seriously interested in trying to aid you. Its almost like having a friend who you can tell everything to without being judged.
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Cat's are so hard to take care of, I'd rather just stay insane
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On June 19 2011 08:17 Arkansassy wrote:Show nested quote +On June 19 2011 06:06 Jibba wrote: Keep in mind the average TLer is completely ignorant of the distinction between psychologist and psychiatrist, just as they are between finances and economics, and politics and political science.
Chef, Excalibur_Z is a bright guy, what he said is true. It may work or it may not, but keep in mind there's probably a well trained person on the other side. That doesn't mean to concede to their opinion. Just treat it with your normal academic curiosity and see where it goes.
Arkansassy, psychologists hold PhDs. Psychiatrists hold MDs. Only one of those can prescribe medicine. In short, you don't have a clue of what you're talking about. I highlighted your opening paragraph as I believe that's an insult to the "average TLer." I mean if I were average, I'd certainly be insulted. lol The last paragraph, in reference to me, is highlighted because you are so wrong. As a volunteer for Hospice and our local suicide hotline, I have worked with many psychologists and psychiatrists (some good friends) I can tell you that many psychologists do not hold a PhD. So in short, you don't have a clue what you're talking about. Prior to that, when I was working toward my degree in the performing arts, students would - many times - consult psychologists for insight into characters. I don't just spit out information that I obtained from a website. :D
The first paragraph is a basic generalization. Ignorance isn't bad considering it's an aspect that most don't feel the need to inform themselves (since they aren't personally affected by it). It's not an insult of their intelligence, but something that is expected and honestly understandable so long as they realize they're talking in realm they don't know or have not informed themselves on.
Many therapists don't hold a Ph. D, not psychologists and you should see why and what they can and cannot do, say or project as their "profession".
Hope this clarifies some things for you.
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United States22883 Posts
On June 19 2011 08:17 Arkansassy wrote:Show nested quote +On June 19 2011 06:06 Jibba wrote: Keep in mind the average TLer is completely ignorant of the distinction between psychologist and psychiatrist, just as they are between finances and economics, and politics and political science.
Chef, Excalibur_Z is a bright guy, what he said is true. It may work or it may not, but keep in mind there's probably a well trained person on the other side. That doesn't mean to concede to their opinion. Just treat it with your normal academic curiosity and see where it goes.
Arkansassy, psychologists hold PhDs. Psychiatrists hold MDs. Only one of those can prescribe medicine. In short, you don't have a clue of what you're talking about. I highlighted your opening paragraph as I believe that's an insult to the "average TLer." I mean if I were average, I'd certainly be insulted. lol The last paragraph, in reference to me, is highlighted because you are so wrong. As a volunteer for Hospice and our local suicide hotline, I have worked with many psychologists and psychiatrists (some good friends) I can tell you that many psychologists do not hold a PhD. So in short, you don't have a clue what you're talking about. Prior to that, when I was working toward my degree in the performing arts, students would - many times - consult psychologists for insight into characters. I don't just spit out information that I obtained from a website. :D You're still missing the point. And it is an insult towards people.
You're telling him to worry about being prescribed medication by a psychologist, when it's illegal just about everywhere in the country for them to do that. Beyond that, it seems like you don't fully grasp the difference between the two professions. To become a full member of the APA in the US, you need a PhD.
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If someone to ask me to go see a psychiatrist, I'd be hesitant as well, but after reading this blog I suggest that if your parents are paying, you should at least give it a shot.
Putting myself in your situation, I would see how you really don't want to go. I'd think that my problems are extremely personal and distinguished that it'd be difficult for some random stranger to correctly diagnose what I was going through. The media and television give a skewed perception on what these therapy sessions are really like as well.
In the end, what you have to realize is that if your symptoms correlate with patterns that have been studied and treated, then you should embrace the fact that whatever you're going through is something that many others have gone through before you. Sure, it may strip away the sense of your own special individual experiences/life, but it'd be best to traverse tough times knowing other people made it out OK.
It's like in SC (BW for your sake), imagine that you were really struggling with 3 Hatch Ling all-in. What if you're the only one who struggled with this problem, and you couldn't find ANY documentation on this build and it's screwing over your games hard. It's your own special little problem. Of course it'd drive you up the wall trying to find the solution.
But thankfully, tons of people struggled with 3 hatch ling all-ins, and there are guides and threads and wonderful liquipedia pages to help you out. If your personal problems are similar to those of others, a psychiatrist can point that out for you so you know you can extend to other resources for help.
Hope that made some sense, and best of luck. BTW love your BW blogs <3
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On June 19 2011 17:03 Jibba wrote:Show nested quote +On June 19 2011 08:17 Arkansassy wrote:On June 19 2011 06:06 Jibba wrote: Keep in mind the average TLer is completely ignorant of the distinction between psychologist and psychiatrist, just as they are between finances and economics, and politics and political science.
Chef, Excalibur_Z is a bright guy, what he said is true. It may work or it may not, but keep in mind there's probably a well trained person on the other side. That doesn't mean to concede to their opinion. Just treat it with your normal academic curiosity and see where it goes.
Arkansassy, psychologists hold PhDs. Psychiatrists hold MDs. Only one of those can prescribe medicine. In short, you don't have a clue of what you're talking about. I highlighted your opening paragraph as I believe that's an insult to the "average TLer." I mean if I were average, I'd certainly be insulted. lol The last paragraph, in reference to me, is highlighted because you are so wrong. As a volunteer for Hospice and our local suicide hotline, I have worked with many psychologists and psychiatrists (some good friends) I can tell you that many psychologists do not hold a PhD. So in short, you don't have a clue what you're talking about. Prior to that, when I was working toward my degree in the performing arts, students would - many times - consult psychologists for insight into characters. I don't just spit out information that I obtained from a website. :D You're still missing the point. And it is an insult towards people. You're telling him to worry about being prescribed medication by a psychologist, when it's illegal just about everywhere in the country for them to do that. Beyond that, it seems like you don't fully grasp the difference between the two professions. To become a full member of the APA in the US, you need a PhD. SO THATS WHAT THIS THREAD IS ABOUT NOW? Since we have finally established the clear difference between a Psychiatrist and Psychologist, its time to delve into the different degrees of psychology. Because anyone with a brain knows that to become a FULL MEMBER of the APA in the US YOU NEED a PhD. CLEARLY WHEN YOU SAID A PSYCHOLOGIST HOLDS A PHD YOU ONLY MEANT, FULL MEMBER APA.
Chef, I've been to every variety of mental health specialists and the one thing I learned is, you get out of it what you put into it. It's like anything else in life. If you go in lacking willingness and open-mindedness, surely it will be a waste of time.
Just make sure if you see a psychologist, hes FULL MEMBER APA.
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you get out of it what you put into it.
100% agreed.
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Sorry, but Arkansassy is pretty much right here. I didn't really give the necessary information for people to give me solid advice because I wasn't asking for any, I was just sharing the frustration of being told to see a psychologist lol. It is such a lazy way of trying to help someone. "Oh you're moving? You should hire movers." Thanks. Professionals or not, it's impersonal and insulting.
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There is nothing that drugs, or therapy can do that you cannot do yourself. Keep your money, make yourself happy and don't worry about anyone else.
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United States22883 Posts
On June 20 2011 01:07 Chef wrote: Sorry, but Arkansassy is pretty much right here. I didn't really give the necessary information for people to give me solid advice because I wasn't asking for any, I was just sharing the frustration of being told to see a psychologist lol. It is such a lazy way of trying to help someone. "Oh you're moving? You should hire movers." Thanks. Professionals or not, it's impersonal and insulting. What are your parents supposed to do? They're in unfamiliar territory and are highly impartial when it comes to you. I understand you have a lot of skepticism of experts and even college but it seems the brunt of your exploration is second hand.
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On June 20 2011 01:07 Chef wrote: Sorry, but Arkansassy is pretty much right here. I didn't really give the necessary information for people to give me solid advice because I wasn't asking for any, I was just sharing the frustration of being told to see a psychologist lol. It is such a lazy way of trying to help someone. "Oh you're moving? You should hire movers." Thanks. Professionals or not, it's impersonal and insulting.
You didn't really make that point clear in your OP. It read a lot more as "I have all of these misconceptions about psychologists and therefore don't want to see them!" People responded directly to that.
And you shouldn't call it a "lazy solution"; your parents aren't psychic, and they may not have the training/experience to fully understand what you're going through.
Cute cat btw
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On June 18 2011 23:31 Torte de Lini wrote:Show nested quote +On June 18 2011 23:00 shinosai wrote: People actually believe that you go to a doctor to determine whether or not you need medication? With most doctors it goes something like this:
Step 1) Determine if he is depressed Step 2) If he's depressed, prescribe a drug. Step 3) If that drug doesn't work, increase the dosage (more $$$!) Step 4) If that doesn't work, prescribe a new drug.
You being depressed is an automatic qualification for drugs. Does anyone else see something wrong with that? Yeah, I do, because you blurred details and only skimmed half the things that happened.
You're right. I forgot to add in that you might see a doctor that is unable to prescribe you meds. He might offer you therapy instead. He also may send you to a doctor that can prescribe you meds, just to make sure you have access to the drugs. I find it rather odd... mostly because I don't believe the majority of cases in depression are a result of some chemical imbalance in the brain. And even if there is, it's not like anyone actually determines it. It's just presumed.
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What misconceptions? I see a 5 page argument about the differences between psychologists and psychiatrists, and some people arguing about what their exact qualifications are... Which is something I didn't even mention in my OP. I don't perceive the posts this thread as condescending (a little presumptuous maybe), I was talking about my parents.
I said what I imagined it to be, but I also said I know that there are many different psychologists with their own methods. If you're saying psychologists don't do what I said, you're wrong because people I know who've gone to psychologists have told me about what their sessions were like. One explained that they were given those types of missions, and another said that he just got to talk about his interests (even before getting into emotional stuff).
So I don't know what to say to that... I don't feel my OP was asking for advice at all. People just read 'see a psychologist,' skim thru the post, and make an assumption about what I meant. If you read it thoroughly, I think I'm a decent enough writer to have written what I meant, and a few people got it so nuts to you. People talk very big about depression and medicine on the internet, but it's not such a clear cut field if you've had to actually delve into it. Psychology is more scientifically rigorous than it used to be, but because of that it also has to admit that the human brain is not fully understood yet, and I think it should also respect philosophical qualms about whether being happy or 'content' is actually a person's objective.
Simplify, simplify, simplify. The brain is like programming! (very generous comparison). Do you really even know the stats for the number of depressed people who actually get "better?" What is considered a success? What is the value of independence? What does one want out of one's life? These are subjective questions that one must answer for oneself. I have. I've known since the beginning that I do not want to get therapy or take drugs. I didn't make this thread to ask 'should I see a professional?' I made this thread saying 'I would rather see a cat.' lol... Why is that the wrong answer? Because I answered the questions differently than you did? That seems rather unfair.
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Have you considered the Based philosophy?
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Im guessing the US are more advanced regarding this but while there are lots of crappy psychologist who either follow obsolete knowledge (ie: Psychoanalisis/Freud) or are just new age idiots with a title (Humanist Psychology) theres are other who are actually professionals about what they do and realize treatments based on actual empirical evidence (Systemic/Cognitive).
Thinking that Psychology is just a bunch of Mumbo Jumbo is an standard defense mechanism because we are taught that we are special and unique in this world, this is actually good and builds up a healthy mind but on the downsize makes you refuse the idea of someone being able to understand you simply because he studies other people.
Give it a shot, you have very little to lose and could possibly gain a lot from it, specially now that you are young.
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Thinking that Psychology is just a bunch of Mumbo Jumbo Let me set the record and say that I have never said that, nor do I believe that. I don't know where this is coming from. I'm fully aware that modern psychology is based on the scientific method, I've taken a few psychology courses in my day, and I'm not an idiot. Just because I don't want to see a psychologist (one small part of psychology) doesn't mean it is a defence mechanism (it's ironic that you bring that up right after calling Freud obsolete) or that I'm denying the legitimacy of the entire field. You can't make a conclusion and say that the only reason I don't agree with you is because I have a defence mechanism or there is something else wrong with my perspective. That's not a strong argument, that's just bickering. I've offered good reasons why seeing a psychologist is not for me, but you're so quick to decide what's wrong with me and why I need to be fixed, why I should be more like you. What's so great about you? Maybe I like how I act, I think the way other people act is unhealthy? There's no such man I can tell you to see to try to get you to act just like me, so I'm a little defenceless here. How unfair.
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You are looking at this the wrong way.
Look at your own assumptions:
"Don't secretly judge me." "Don't give patronizing advice." "Won't dig for awkward memories and feelings." "I have it my head that I'll be given missions like 'talk to a new person each day' or 'smile at strangers' " "psychologist will just sit there nodding his or her head and force me into a very one sided conversation" "It seems wrong to open up my intimate thoughts to a complete stranger"
Cmon, man, You dont even know the guy, and you already judged him. Who said he is gonna give you a list of advices? They are gonna give you a mission? how can you posible know? They are gonna try to fix you? again, how do you know this? You dont want to change, who said they are gonna change you?
Look, it happened the same to me, my mother arranged some sessions with a psychologist, and of course i feel insulted, everybody who knows me know im not average guy, (well,yeah,im very smart)but anyways, so i went and he told me if you want talk is great but if you dont wanna talk, fine, come over another day, so i said alright i dont want to be here bye. The second time, i was more relaxed and i thou well i have a question for you, how do you supposed to handle this kind of situation where xxxx xxxx xxx?, and he would start to talk aobut his own experiences with his own family, and we started to talk a bit more.If i said to him im not interested in talking about a xxxx subject, because i think there is nothing to talk about that, he would say fine. he will never forced me to talk, or "dig" like you assume is going to happen.
All the assumptions you said, it never happened to me.
Be fair, give the guy a chance.
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why not have fun with a psychologist/psychiatrist?
imagine:
shrink: "what's troubling you lately?" me: "bisu being out of the osl...again" shrink: "OMG! I WAS LIKE 'THIS WAS SOOO HIS YEAR!'" me: "i need weed"
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On June 20 2011 03:30 shinosai wrote:Show nested quote +On June 18 2011 23:31 Torte de Lini wrote:On June 18 2011 23:00 shinosai wrote: People actually believe that you go to a doctor to determine whether or not you need medication? With most doctors it goes something like this:
Step 1) Determine if he is depressed Step 2) If he's depressed, prescribe a drug. Step 3) If that drug doesn't work, increase the dosage (more $$$!) Step 4) If that doesn't work, prescribe a new drug.
You being depressed is an automatic qualification for drugs. Does anyone else see something wrong with that? Yeah, I do, because you blurred details and only skimmed half the things that happened. You're right. I forgot to add in that you might see a doctor that is unable to prescribe you meds. He might offer you therapy instead. He also may send you to a doctor that can prescribe you meds, just to make sure you have access to the drugs. I find it rather odd... mostly because I don't believe the majority of cases in depression are a result of some chemical imbalance in the brain. And even if there is, it's not like anyone actually determines it. It's just presumed.
._________________.
because you blurred details and only skimmed half the things that happened
If I tweak my sentence, just a bit, it still rings true. You're ignoring a lot of details and steps while also speaking in a domain without any proper research? No determination of chemical imbalances? Just "presumed"?
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On June 20 2011 01:07 Chef wrote: Sorry, but Arkansassy is pretty much right here. I didn't really give the necessary information for people to give me solid advice because I wasn't asking for any, I was just sharing the frustration of being told to see a psychologist lol. It is such a lazy way of trying to help someone. "Oh you're moving? You should hire movers." Thanks. Professionals or not, it's impersonal and insulting.
Your parents are out of their depth and want to help you. How is that insulting? Swallow your pride, lots of intelligent, capable people see psychologists to help them with their problems, It's not a big deal and yet you seem so biased against them.
My parents tried to help me by talking things through but they couldn't really help me deal with them. As much as your parents might love you, and as smart as you might be, an outside, professional perspective can be very helpful. CBT and proper counselling helped me alot. I'm still the same person, just not suffering as much from old insecurities and irrational/negative thoughts (like feeling frustrated and insulted at someone offering to help you). Going on your blogs I've always thought you seemed pretty smart and open-minded but you're way off base on this one. How the fuck can you think this guy is "pretty much right"??
On June 18 2011 09:00 Arkansassy wrote: I'd venture to say the majority of psychologists become psychologists because of their own effed up minds or because someone close to them suffered from a mental illness. Of course, there are some that go into the field simply to help others, because they think they're so frickin superior in an emotionally well-balanced way. *rolls eyes*
Now let's see, psychiatrists dish out drugs - the majority of which have extremely bad side-effects, and the psychologists won't even talk to you until you see a shrink and are heavily medicated. lol
Nevertheless, when you're suffering from depression, it's not fun and some times you need a med for a jump start - the problem is, the idiots want to keep you on them forever.
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You could almost say her argument's Lacan.
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How the fuck can you think this guy is "pretty much right"?? I meant his other post about the objective of my blog, not what he thinks of the psychiatric system.
The stuff about the cat was not meant to be taken that seriously...
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On June 20 2011 11:24 Scarecrow wrote:Show nested quote +On June 20 2011 01:07 Chef wrote: Sorry, but Arkansassy is pretty much right here. I didn't really give the necessary information for people to give me solid advice because I wasn't asking for any, I was just sharing the frustration of being told to see a psychologist lol. It is such a lazy way of trying to help someone. "Oh you're moving? You should hire movers." Thanks. Professionals or not, it's impersonal and insulting. Your parents are out of their depth and want to help you. How is that insulting? Swallow your pride, lots of intelligent, capable people see psychologists to help them with their problems, It's not a big deal and yet you seem so biased against them. My parents tried to help me by talking things through but they couldn't really help me deal with them. As much as your parents might love you, and as smart as you might be, an outside, professional perspective can be very helpful. CBT and proper counselling helped me alot. I'm still the same person, just not suffering as much from old insecurities and irrational/negative thoughts (like feeling frustrated and insulted at someone offering to help you). Going on your blogs I've always thought you seemed pretty smart and open-minded but you're way off base on this one. How the fuck can you think this guy is "pretty much right"?? Show nested quote +On June 18 2011 09:00 Arkansassy wrote: I'd venture to say the majority of psychologists become psychologists because of their own effed up minds or because someone close to them suffered from a mental illness. Of course, there are some that go into the field simply to help others, because they think they're so frickin superior in an emotionally well-balanced way. *rolls eyes*
Now let's see, psychiatrists dish out drugs - the majority of which have extremely bad side-effects, and the psychologists won't even talk to you until you see a shrink and are heavily medicated. lol
Nevertheless, when you're suffering from depression, it's not fun and some times you need a med for a jump start - the problem is, the idiots want to keep you on them forever.
I love CBT! I've been a huge fan of it since the early 2000s! I've read so much and studied about it so much on my free time because it just makes no sense, it's down-to-earth and can easily be performed by yourself or with the expertise of a specialist :B!~
Chef, if you want. I'll see a psychologist if you do, we can dual-blog about it! :B
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On June 20 2011 03:39 Chef wrote: What misconceptions? I see a 5 page argument about the differences between psychologists and psychiatrists, and some people arguing about what their exact qualifications are... Which is something I didn't even mention in my OP. I don't perceive the posts this thread as condescending (a little presumptuous maybe), I was talking about my parents.
I said what I imagined it to be, but I also said I know that there are many different psychologists with their own methods. If you're saying psychologists don't do what I said, you're wrong because people I know who've gone to psychologists have told me about what their sessions were like. One explained that they were given those types of missions, and another said that he just got to talk about his interests (even before getting into emotional stuff).
So I don't know what to say to that... I don't feel my OP was asking for advice at all. People just read 'see a psychologist,' skim thru the post, and make an assumption about what I meant. If you read it thoroughly, I think I'm a decent enough writer to have written what I meant, and a few people got it so nuts to you. People talk very big about depression and medicine on the internet, but it's not such a clear cut field if you've had to actually delve into it. Psychology is more scientifically rigorous than it used to be, but because of that it also has to admit that the human brain is not fully understood yet, and I think it should also respect philosophical qualms about whether being happy or 'content' is actually a person's objective.
Simplify, simplify, simplify. The brain is like programming! (very generous comparison). Do you really even know the stats for the number of depressed people who actually get "better?" What is considered a success? What is the value of independence? What does one want out of one's life? These are subjective questions that one must answer for oneself. I have. I've known since the beginning that I do not want to get therapy or take drugs. I didn't make this thread to ask 'should I see a professional?' I made this thread saying 'I would rather see a cat.' lol... Why is that the wrong answer? Because I answered the questions differently than you did? That seems rather unfair.
You have a lot of reasons to be skeptical about therapy working for you, but you haven't really presented any reasons not to just give it a shot. A lot of people in this thread have explained to you why.
And it's silly to complain because people didn't respond to your OP in the exact way you expected/wanted them to.
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On June 20 2011 09:14 Chef wrote:Let me set the record and say that I have never said that, nor do I believe that. I don't know where this is coming from. I'm fully aware that modern psychology is based on the scientific method, I've taken a few psychology courses in my day, and I'm not an idiot. Just because I don't want to see a psychologist (one small part of psychology) doesn't mean it is a defence mechanism (it's ironic that you bring that up right after calling Freud obsolete) or that I'm denying the legitimacy of the entire field. You can't make a conclusion and say that the only reason I don't agree with you is because I have a defence mechanism or there is something else wrong with my perspective. That's not a strong argument, that's just bickering. I've offered good reasons why seeing a psychologist is not for me, but you're so quick to decide what's wrong with me and why I need to be fixed, why I should be more like you. What's so great about you? Maybe I like how I act, I think the way other people act is unhealthy? There's no such man I can tell you to see to try to get you to act just like me, so I'm a little defenceless here. How unfair.
Wait wait wait WHAT?
When did I say i knew what was wrong with you, or that there was even anything "wrong" with you at all. I wasnt talking about you specifically when I said rejecting psychology is a defense mechanism I was talking about EVERYONE, thats why I used WE.
Seriously chill a little.
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Well, if it helps I totally get what you're saying and would much rather see the cat too
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You should go.
As much as you find it weird now, that person will never judge you, unlike opening up to friends.
I've been to one session, started talking, and the damn doc started asking the most stupid hard questions every time I tried to explain why I thought I was there. She never tried to judge me or fix me, just asked the the things I was avoiding asking myself. I knew about them I just never wanted to think about those issues, just held them away. After a bit of holding back and once she explained it's nothing so special, a lot of people have some issues (even her, apparently they have to visit a psychologist themselves before being allowed to practice and I suppose even while they practice) I gave up defending and opened up.
Was quite nice being able to talk to someone not just about minor stupid things but about all the hidden stuff, my impossibility to concentrate, my thoughts about suicide, my issues with my parents. Then being called an idiot (not directly but the question she asked made me realize it) and being fully in agreement.
It was a pretty nice deal. I used to think I was pretty good at analyzing myself but those 2h still helped me break what I would consider my last ego walls. At least now I am even more aware of my issues and can sort of handle them even if I refuse to fix them yet.
Remember, as hard as some of the things you're asked seem to be to answer, try to move towards just answering them as much as you can. And as openly and completely as you can. Shrinks are pretty much the only ones you could ever so completely open up to (as long as it doesn't involve a murder spree I suppose). Also helped that she told me it all was completely private.
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you haven't really presented any reasons not to just give it a shot Maybe those reasons are about my personal life, and like I said I didn't given enough information? I'm not telling the internet specifics hahaha. My reasons are my own, do you really need them? Does it really matter to me if you approve of them?
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That cat is really fucking cute. Ive gone to personal psychiatrists and couple psychiatrists. Plural on both accounts. More often then not they are good. They just ask the right questions and don't judge you. You seem to think hes going to be critical and post his bias understanding in the paper. Most likely he will never mention anything to anyone ever. The best ones don't even come up with a conclusion. They let you find it. Your friend is very lucky to have such a cute cat.
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Chef, you don't need to bitch with these guys about ne nature of different psycho-analysits and what they can perscribe. It's about you, fuck the rest /engage-shameless-self-promotion so you don't need to get huffed over people not caring cuz some still do so stick to that instead of persnicetyness.
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I'm really confused.
What kind of replies were you looking for Chef?
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The big issue people have with attempting therapy is the idea that they need help. That their own minds are incapable of discerning the problems or issues plaguing them and being able to solve them. An outside perspective is usually always a good thing.
I'm not saying that you should see one, because I don't know your issues, but it could be beneficial. I had an interesting experience with one, as I wanted to see if I was Bipolar, but upon asking a basic question, they didn't have the correct answer, so I never went back.
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Chef, just go. You're a girl, right? Then you probably have 1000000 problems that need fixing. This person will probably help you and make you a better person.
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If you were expecting people to tell you to fuck it and not go, sorry. Most people understand what a psychologist is and how they could possibly help. Is there a real problem if a complete stranger that is compelled to keep your conversations private learns some of your secrets and possibly helps you learn some secrets even you didn't know? Is there any danger in getting an outside opinion? Didn't you learn by now that debugging your own creations is worthless and inefficient?
As for drugs, if you don't want them, avoid them. I doubt anyone can force you to take them if you don't want to/you think they'll change you for the worse.
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On June 20 2011 03:39 Chef wrote: What misconceptions? I see a 5 page argument about the differences between psychologists and psychiatrists, and some people arguing about what their exact qualifications are... Which is something I didn't even mention in my OP. I don't perceive the posts this thread as condescending (a little presumptuous maybe), I was talking about my parents.
I said what I imagined it to be, but I also said I know that there are many different psychologists with their own methods. If you're saying psychologists don't do what I said, you're wrong because people I know who've gone to psychologists have told me about what their sessions were like. One explained that they were given those types of missions, and another said that he just got to talk about his interests (even before getting into emotional stuff).
So I don't know what to say to that... I don't feel my OP was asking for advice at all. People just read 'see a psychologist,' skim thru the post, and make an assumption about what I meant. If you read it thoroughly, I think I'm a decent enough writer to have written what I meant, and a few people got it so nuts to you. People talk very big about depression and medicine on the internet, but it's not such a clear cut field if you've had to actually delve into it. Psychology is more scientifically rigorous than it used to be, but because of that it also has to admit that the human brain is not fully understood yet, and I think it should also respect philosophical qualms about whether being happy or 'content' is actually a person's objective.
Simplify, simplify, simplify. The brain is like programming! (very generous comparison). Do you really even know the stats for the number of depressed people who actually get "better?" What is considered a success? What is the value of independence? What does one want out of one's life? These are subjective questions that one must answer for oneself. I have. I've known since the beginning that I do not want to get therapy or take drugs. I didn't make this thread to ask 'should I see a professional?' I made this thread saying 'I would rather see a cat.' lol... Why is that the wrong answer? Because I answered the questions differently than you did? That seems rather unfair.
Sorry about taking part in that, I get riled up easily when it comes to psychology because there are so many misconceptions about it out there and everyone seems to think they know what they're talking about.
From this post I completely understand why you don't want to see a psychologist. It's your own decision and if you choose not to want therapy, nobody should pester you about it, at least not if you're still doing relatively fine, which you seem to be. Besides, therapy likely isn't going to have much of an effect if you're not committed to it.
Just know that if you ever do want help, therapy is one way that's worth considering and I or hopefully people more knowledgeable than me can help you with choosing a therapist for you that does stuff you find reasonable and not the things you describe in the OP.
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the more pressing issue: do all those shoes belong to your friend?
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