Who Should We See First? – what this story teaches, the signs and what to do

From the book – Chapter 2: Psychology, Psychiatry and Counselling

Who Should We See First?

Anita, twenty-six, had been having panic attacks on her commute to Bengaluru for three months. Her heart pounded, her hands tingled and she was sure she would faint. Her family argued about what to do. Her uncle said she needed a psychiatrist, which frightened her. Her aunt said a counsellor would be enough. A cousin said only a clinical psychologist was proper. Anita felt more anxious about choosing than about the attacks.

Her friend Zoya suggested starting with the family doctor. Dr Rao checked her heart, blood pressure and thyroid, and found nothing physical. He explained the different helpers in plain words. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose and, if needed, prescribe medicines. A clinical psychologist is trained in assessment and talking therapies. A counsellor helps people work through stress, relationships and life changes. 'These are not rivals,' he said. 'Often they work as a team.'

What this story explains

This story shows the differences between psychiatrists, clinical psychologists and counsellors and how the family doctor can act as a gateway. It also shows that a team approach is common.

How to recognise it

Repeated episodes of intense fear with racing heart, breathlessness or dizziness.
Avoiding places or situations out of fear of another attack.
Confusion in the family about which professional is the right one.
Symptoms lasting weeks or months and interfering with work or travel.
Physical causes not yet checked.

What to do

Start with a family doctor to rule out physical causes.
Ask the doctor to explain which type of professional fits your problem.
Ask about training, registration, experience, fees and cancellations before starting.
Book a first session and treat it as a trial; you may change helpers if the fit is poor.
Share relevant information between professionals, with your permission.
Practise what you learn between sessions.

Do and don’t

Do	Don’t
Do ask what training the helper has.	Don't choose a helper only because someone shouted loudest.
Do ask how confidentiality works.	Don't assume a psychiatrist means 'madness'.
Do give a method a fair trial.	Don't skip the physical check.
Do tell each professional what the others advise.	Don't stop treatment suddenly without discussing it.
Do bring a trusted person if it helps.	Don't be shy about asking questions.

Read the full story

Read the full chapter – Chapter 2: Psychology, Psychiatry and Counselling

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Shloks

Bhagavad Gita 14.5 – Sattva, rajas, and tamas — qualities born of material nature (prakriti) — bind the eternal soul to the body, O mighty-armed Arjuna.
Bhagavad Gita 4.34 – Know that by approaching with respect, by questioning, and by service. Those who see will teach you.

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Who Should We See First? – what this story teaches, the signs and what to do