Your health history tells a story. Surgeries, illnesses, and medications are all used to determine how a doctor or therapist can guide you to health. It is essential to fill out the medical history form completely or answer as truthfully as you can when asked about your health.
What Does My Medical History Say?
Your medical history gives the medical staff an idea of your past and present health. In addition, illnesses like cancer or diabetes can determine how your therapist will treat your mental health issues. For example, many cancer patients have post-active treatment anxiety or depression. When therapists know about their diagnosis and cancer treatment, they can help identify potential triggers. Therapists can also address the root cause of a mental health disorder; in this example, the reason is cancer.
A complete medical history will also include your parents’ health histories and sometimes grandparents’. For example, if you have a family history of depression, your therapist can consider that when you’re in an individual session. Health histories are roadmaps to your mental and physical health.
Why Should I Give a Complete History?
Think of people like puzzles. When you’re putting together a puzzle, you like to have all the pieces because, without those pieces, you won’t have a complete picture of the puzzle. Your medical history is an essential part of the puzzle that is you. Doctors, nurses, or therapists can’t see the whole picture if they don’t have all the pieces. You decrease your chances of addressing all your issues by not telling them about a particular medication, past trauma, or medical problem.
If you fail to mention previous prescriptions and how you reacted to them, your doctor or therapist won’t know what you have or haven’t tried. Instead of giving you medicine that can help you, they may unknowingly prescribe something ineffective. Or, worst-case scenario, if you don’t put down medications that cause you to have allergic reactions, they won’t know not to give you that medication.
What if I’m Ashamed or Embarrassed by My Health History?
People who work in the medical field have heard and seen a lot; there is very little that will shock them or cause them to judge you. Therapists dedicate themselves to your mental and physical well-being. When you share your psychological and physical health history, you give them insight into your emotional state.
Your past doesn’t determine who you are, nor does your health. Whether you overdosed, acted on suicidal ideations, or used shopping as a way to feel good, tell your therapist. Individual and group sessions are helpful if you are open and honest.
Furthermore, keep your therapist or doctor updated on anything that has changed since the last time you saw them. Updates on your health are crucial for proper treatment. While you may think something is inconsequential, tell your therapist and doctor anyway.
Your medical history is a roadmap to your mental and physical health. Doctors and therapists use your history to determine the best course of treatment. Without a complete medical history, you leave your therapist in the dark about potentially significant parts of your life. An essential part of sharing your health history is finding a therapist you’re comfortable talking with. The Guest House in Ocala, Florida, believes a comprehensive medical history is essential to therapy tailored for your unique situation. Our therapists provide judgment-free care so you can feel safe and comfortable during your stay. Call us at (855) 483-7800.