Why do we put of going to the doctors?

I think a lot of us are guilty of neglecting our health in some way. Whether it’s putting off that smear test or not getting that niggle in your hip checked out.

At the time of writing this, I’ve just booked an appointment to get a mole checked out that has changed slightly in colour. I have a fair few moles on my back and stomach and I’ve thought about getting them checked out for a long time. I’m finally pulling my finger out and getting it done.

We’re all guilty of not going to the doctors when we know we should. But why?

It’s embarrassing.

Sometimes we can be a bit embarrassed. Sometimes we have to get our bits and bobs out for medical staff – a smear test, a lump in your balls – all these can be something we put off because we don’t want to get naked in front of a stranger.

But you have to remember that these are medical professionals who deal with this stuff all the time.

Get over it and get yer bits out!

We hate uncomfortable conversations.

Sometimes we might be a bit worried what to say or how to express ourselves if it’s a delicate subject. If your problem is to do with mental health, you could struggle to talk about how you have been feeling and downplay it.

It might be a physical problem, but something you’re uncomfortable talking about, like wanting Viagra Connect or having an embarrassing problem with your toilet habits!

The best thing to do is 1) get over it, trained medical professionals, blah blah and 2) write down how you are feeling, how it has been impacting your life and what you hope to get out of the appointment.

ASK for what you want. If you’re depressed and want to try an anti-depression, ask. If you think counselling will help you, ask.

It’s inconvenient. 

Getting an appointment is hard work. I’ve just booked one for 18 days away. At a time I’m supposed to be at work, so I have to ask to leave early or change my shift. It’s just not convenient to have appointments to go to.

You know what else isn’t convenient though? Getting skin cancer that could have been prevented by having a mole removed.

We are afraid of wasting doctors time. 

This is something I fear a lot – I’m afraid that the doctor will think my illness isn’t anything serious and I’ve basically wasted their time. Especially when I’ve called up for an emergency appointment!

But you know what? I pay my taxes and national insurance. I’ve worked since I was 15. If I think something is wrong with me, then I am going to try and find out what it is so I can put my mind at ease.

Our doctors aren’t helpful. 

How many times have you heard people say that their doctor doesn’t take them seriously or doesn’t do anything to help with their problem?

If you’re not satisfied with the service your doctor is giving you, ask to see a different doctor. If that fails, join another surgery!

Remember, we only have one life, so it’s important to get anything you might be a concern checked out!