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Why does a psychiatrist give a drug test? What next?
Mental Health | Last Active: Mar 22, 2023 | Replies (13)Comment receiving replies
I imagine that is a variable answer, depending on what meds they are thinking of, of if they are worried if there is something else in your system. I'd ask. You and your shrink will work much better together if you are honest and ask questions.
Any doctor worth their degree should be able to explain their reasoning. It's the beginning to understanding you condition at a more fundamental level, I think. Good luck!
Replies to "I imagine that is a variable answer, depending on what meds they are thinking of, of..."
The purpose of the drug test for a new patient would be to assess your honesty firstly. And if you’re seeing the therapist for drug related issues a base line is needed. I would expect a therapist to ask about your drug use both legal and recreational as these have an effect on our mental health as well as our physician health. So if you provide incorrect info regarding this question and your drug test shows differently it will come up in treatment. Establishing a trusting relationship with your therapist is paramount to receiving good therapy to reach your goals. The testing is not meant to cause you problems but only to assist you to getting better. The therapist will not stop or decide to not see you because you got this wrong, It’s only a fact now known only between you and your therapist and a beginning of a positive relationship.
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What Cherip posted.
They NEED TO KNOW what is going on inside your body as well as your head ere they can rightfully prescribe ANYTHING.
I would not continue with ANY 'care provider' who did not want to know COMPLETELY what is driving my systems.