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Got my first Assessment tomorrow - face to face

Mweekie6852

Heya,

I am really anxious at the moment as I have got my first assessment tomorrow and it's a face-to-face one.

I was on the shortlist for cancellations and had a phone call last week (coincidentally on my way to my UC appointment). 

Apart from taking Mum with me and my medical history notes - I really don't know what else to expect.

It's a 2.5 hour appointment - and I know that until I feel comfortable, I probably won't actually speak - usually I let Mum start off until I feel able to.

Would it be an idea to maybe take a fidget item with me so I can have something in my hands for something to keep my anxiety down?

Half of me wants to just curl up under my duvet and cancel the appointment - but the other (slightly more rational) half of me knows I need to go and I have been waiting just over 3 years for an appointment.

What can I expect to be said at the appointment? 

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Mweekie xx

Parents

  • Hi there,

    I recently had my assessment, and like you, considered cancelling the appointment up until the actual day. However, I reminded myself that it was normal anxiety, plus I’d initiated the referral, and what’s the worst that could happen? I’d self diagnosed - hence curious re the outcome. Additionally, it took so long to get the final appointment, I knew going back to square one wasn’t an option. Plus, I’d prepped for the appointment well in advance, made a list, decided what to wear... On the day, I took along a notebook and pen, that I’d made related notes in prior, however I mainly used it to make the odd note/doodle, which always relaxes me - the pen was an ideal fidget gadget! On arrival, after a short wait, I saw a psychiatrist, who asked me about my background from childhood to adulthood. Followed by a psychologist who engaged in general everyday conversation, and direct observation. Overall, it was far less invasive than I’d expected, found it rather simplistic in approach. I asked for a break in between clinicians, glad I did, as it took around 3 hours. Just remember, that you’re in control, and ultimately it’s your choice to attend. Best of luck!

Reply

  • Hi there,

    I recently had my assessment, and like you, considered cancelling the appointment up until the actual day. However, I reminded myself that it was normal anxiety, plus I’d initiated the referral, and what’s the worst that could happen? I’d self diagnosed - hence curious re the outcome. Additionally, it took so long to get the final appointment, I knew going back to square one wasn’t an option. Plus, I’d prepped for the appointment well in advance, made a list, decided what to wear... On the day, I took along a notebook and pen, that I’d made related notes in prior, however I mainly used it to make the odd note/doodle, which always relaxes me - the pen was an ideal fidget gadget! On arrival, after a short wait, I saw a psychiatrist, who asked me about my background from childhood to adulthood. Followed by a psychologist who engaged in general everyday conversation, and direct observation. Overall, it was far less invasive than I’d expected, found it rather simplistic in approach. I asked for a break in between clinicians, glad I did, as it took around 3 hours. Just remember, that you’re in control, and ultimately it’s your choice to attend. Best of luck!

Children
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