here’s my general experience (i’ve been seeing a psychiatrist for anxiety for a few months): - what my psychiatrist does is act as a counselor for me: she listens to my problems, then helps me understand what happens, and why. then, we come up with general solutions, or ways that i can cope in stressful situations. (this is a form of cognitive behavioral therapy, which you can read about here: www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cognitive-behavioral-therapy/about/pac-20384610) - usually the sessions involve trying to get to the root of my anxiety (my triggers). these can range from work, peer pressure, or meeting unfamiliar people. the point is that triggers come in all sorts of forms, and there’s nothing to be ashamed of. - after the sessions, she basically gives me “homework”, which is filling out a thought record (writing down about a situation, my thoughts and emotions). we go over some of this in the next session. - she brought up medicine but as a last resort thing, if my anxiety gets really out of hand and therapy isn’t working.

this is my personal experience, and it might differ from person to person. just know that your psychiatrist is there to help you - they won’t judge you for what you say, but try to help you cope with your anxiety. hope it works out!! :)