@hopeful33250 , Teresa, that says it all! I have often wondered if my awesome PCP would have come to the conclusions he has. If I had not thoroughly answered his questions. Every time I see him he says "So tell me what's going on"

And I do! I used to paint a rather rosy picture, lest I be thrown into a padded room with those cute little straight jackets. (Make mine lavender, please!) But leaving out details of our stories doesn't really solve our problems, now does it? We must be straightforward with our medical practitioners. That means we search and research, check out the reviews on his/her website. We Google and study, and keep a detailed log of any symptoms we are having. Honestly, dont they always say, "So how long has this been going on?"

You don't want be be found guessing and fumbling around for those kinds of details. Good physicians base a lot of their judgements on how we "present." If we haven't shown enough interest to help our own selves, they frequently conclude it is simply not an issue and move on. Sadly, to our detriment.

I used to be terrified going to see the doctor. Any doctor. Now, I view it as an opportunity to learn and to share. Mindfulness helps here, as well. So, take a few deep, cleansing breaths, and walk into that waiting room with confidence. We can do this! You just be you. That is more than enough. And you are worth it!

Mamacita