How people cope when their psychiatrist stops working?

Hi @Kindcrystal

You're very lucky to have had a psychiatrist who would see you so often. They are a dying breed

That is true. I suppose multiple medication trials with wild side effects at low doses and the support I’ve needed is what it is. It’s expensive but I’m almost a year without an admission although that’s been touch and go too. Multiple attempts at finding a GP who could help out with a shared care arrangement just failed. I know people cope with much worse such as sudden illness or death of their psychiatrist. Was hoping someone on here had some experience to share.

Hey @Kindcrystal

I have been seeing my psychiatrist for 27 years I think. I was very lucky to have had her. She is now of retirement age. And just took several months long service leave. I'm not sure if she is coming back. I think this is going to be a very difficult transition for me. I have tried to build up a team around me. So I have a new case manager and also a psychologist, I was lucky to find a good GP. My options are limited in terms of getting a new psychiatrist because I see her through the public system and you are kind of assigned who you are assigned. I think take your time to meet with and find a new one. And try and work on building an auxiliary team around you if you can. Also, give yourself time to grieve the relationship with your psychiatrist if you can. I know my psychiatrist has been an important person in my life for a long time now.

Thanks for this. It feels like a very uncertain time. I hope you get someone else equally helpful too.