Overcoming Trust Issues in Mental Health Treatment: A Personal Journey

Q: Overcoming Trust Issues in Mental Health Treatment: A Personal Journey

Hello Ning： Trust is a two-way street; you must first trust your physician and cooperate with them in order to gradually build a mutual trust relationship. <br>A physician's inquiries usually indicate a desire to understand and are not necessarily a sign of distrust, so it's advi

Emotional instability

I regret some actions I took during a period of severe depression.
Now that my depression is not as severe, I worry about my doctor's lack of trust in me.
I tried therapy at another hospital but felt it wasn't a good fit, so I returned to my original clinic.
However, I had previously been noncompliant with medication and had a distrustful attitude towards my doctor.
When I returned, the doctor discovered that I had overdosed on medication last November, which was found when I used my health insurance card.
Since my diagnosis of depression, I have had three instances of overdose, and the doctor asked me if I was sure I would take my medication as prescribed and not secretly reduce the dosage.
I am willing to face the awkward situation, but I fear reverting to a pathological state of depression.
What concerns me now is the possibility of stopping treatment before it's complete, which has happened twice at that clinic.
Additionally, the doctor does not trust that I won't overdose again, so I have to return for weekly appointments.
When I enter the office, the doctor still relies on the previous diagnosis, and it has been several months—shouldn't there be a possibility for reevaluation? These thoughts are troubling me.

Ning, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/08

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello Ning: Trust is a two-way street; you must first trust your physician and cooperate with them in order to gradually build a mutual trust relationship.
A physician's inquiries usually indicate a desire to understand and are not necessarily a sign of distrust, so it's advisable to avoid overthinking.
Weekly follow-up visits are typically based on safety considerations, and understanding this can often make it easier to accept.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2017/02/08

More Info

Overcoming trust issues in mental health treatment can be a challenging journey, especially when past behaviors have led to a breakdown in the therapeutic relationship. It’s understandable that you feel apprehensive about returning to a provider who is aware of your previous struggles with medication adherence and overdose. However, it’s important to recognize that healing is a process, and rebuilding trust takes time and effort from both you and your healthcare provider.

First, it’s crucial to acknowledge the impact of your past experiences on your current mindset. Severe depression can cloud judgment and lead to actions that you may later regret, such as not taking medications as prescribed or even overdosing. These actions can create a cycle of distrust, not only between you and your healthcare provider but also within yourself. You may find it difficult to believe that you can follow through with treatment, which can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness and despair.

To begin rebuilding trust, consider the following steps:
1. Open Communication: When you return to your provider, be honest about your feelings and concerns. Express your worries about their trust in you and your fear of falling back into a depressive state. This transparency can help your provider understand your perspective and tailor their approach to better support you.

2. Set Realistic Goals: Work with your provider to establish achievable goals for your treatment. This could include a medication schedule that feels manageable for you or regular check-ins to discuss how you’re feeling. Setting small, attainable goals can help you regain a sense of control over your treatment.

3. Regular Follow-ups: While weekly appointments may feel burdensome, they can also provide a structured environment for you to discuss your progress and any challenges you face. Regular follow-ups can help your provider monitor your adherence to the treatment plan and adjust it as necessary, which can foster a sense of accountability and support.

4. Therapeutic Alliance: Building a strong therapeutic alliance with your provider is essential. This relationship is built on trust, empathy, and collaboration. If you feel that your current provider is not adequately addressing your needs or concerns, it may be worth exploring other options. Finding a provider with whom you feel comfortable and understood can significantly impact your treatment experience.

5. Self-Compassion: It’s important to practice self-compassion throughout this process. Understand that recovery is not linear, and setbacks can happen. Instead of being hard on yourself for past mistakes, focus on the progress you are making now. Celebrate small victories, such as attending appointments or adhering to your medication schedule.

6. Support Systems: Consider seeking support from friends, family, or support groups. Sharing your experiences with others who understand what you’re going through can provide additional encouragement and reduce feelings of isolation.

7. Psychoeducation: Educate yourself about your mental health condition and the importance of medication adherence. Understanding how medications work and their role in your recovery can empower you to take an active role in your treatment.

8. Mindfulness and Coping Strategies: Incorporate mindfulness practices or coping strategies into your daily routine. Techniques such as meditation, journaling, or engaging in creative outlets can help manage anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

In conclusion, overcoming trust issues in mental health treatment is a multifaceted process that requires patience, communication, and self-awareness. By actively engaging in your treatment and fostering a collaborative relationship with your provider, you can work towards rebuilding trust and achieving a more stable mental health state. Remember, it’s okay to seek help and support along the way, and you are not alone in this journey.

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