How Do I Explain This to My doctor….Or Would He Think It’s Just a Lame Excuse?

Question by Tr: How do I explain this to my doctor….Or would he think it’s just a lame excuse?
Basically, I’m in a specialized program for gambling addiction. It was really hard to get admitted into it, because there are stringent requirements. It is also in a beautiful part of the mountains. It also has a lot of hidden perks, like counseling and all around general help in daily living.

Here is the problem: I’m kind of scared to start treatment, because it will run its course, the people might not like me, and it may eventually come to an end (discharge). The weird thing is, I’m feeling much better being IN the program, even though I haven’t even started treatment yet! I just feel so secure knowing it is there if I need it. I have felt 50% happier just knowing I’m in the program, even though I haven’t actually begun anything yet.

If I start treatment, I’m afraid I’ll get worried about what the counselors think (I have social phobia), the treatment will run its course and someday come to an end.

How do I explain to my doctor that I’m actually feeling better being IN the program, even though I haven’t even started treatment? I want to delay the start date indefinitely, but the program directors expect you to begin treatment as soon as you are admitted.

How can I explain that I feel good knowing that I’m “in” and that in itself has made me feel loads better, but I don’t want to start yet? Or would he think it is a cop out?

Best answer:

Answer by iris054
Just print out what you just wrote, and hand it to your doctor. That should do it. You can’t get benefit from treatment unless you are open, so good for you for pursuing this.

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