If you already have a mental health provider, call and ask to set up an appointment to talk about PTSD treatment options. Do not have a provider? Here are some tips on how you can find one: Where to Get Help for PTSD.
Talking about Treatment Options
Here are some tips on how to talk with your provider about which PTSD treatment is right for you:
Tell your provider about your preferences. Remember: You know more about what is important to you than anyone else. Do not be afraid to speak up!
Do I have a say in which treatment I get?
What if I don't want to be involved in the decision?
Some people feel nervous about asking their provider questions. But it is your provider's job to make sure your questions get answered. Visit the FAQ section of this decision aid to get answers to common questions about PTSD treatment and select which of these questions you want to talk about with your doctor.
Are there any questions that are not OK to ask?
Ask if you can record the visit on your cell phone so you can listen to it later. Or, take notes.
If your provider uses words or abbreviations that are not familiar, ask for an explanation.
Ask for resources (like brochures or websites) that can give you more information about PTSD treatment.
Ask if you can bring someone with you to your first appointment. A loved one may be able to help you ask questions and remember the answers.
Tell your provider what you want to get out of treatment. Check any of the goals below to add them to My Summary.
Manage my stress
Move past my trauma
Do things I enjoy
Other goals
If you have concerns about treatment, mention them to your provider. He or she may be able to help you think of a way to address them. If you need extra time to talk about your concerns with your provider, ask for it–or ask for another appointment.
Commonly Asked Questions
If your provider does not offer the treatment you want, ask to be referred to another provider who does. Or, if it is important to you that you continue to work with your provider, you may decide to try a different treatment. Ask you provider which evidence-based treatment he or she offers. You may be able to come up with something you can both agree on.
If your provider recommends a different treatment, ask why. He or she should give you a good explanation. If you do not agree with the recommendation, you may decide to find a new provider who can offer you the treatment you want.
Everything doesn't work for everyone and having a variety of choices is helpful."
Maureen Z.
Here are some additional steps you can take to help you make the best decision for you:
If you feel comfortable, talk with family members about your interest in seeking treatment so that they can offer their support. Sometimes the people who know you best can have good ideas about what treatment might be a good fit.
Other people with PTSD have probably wondered about the same things. Visit the AboutFace website to watch Veterans talk about PTSD and how treatment turned their lives around.
Still have questions? Click Next to get some answers.