Question: I have a male primary care who is treating my depression. My husband, who sees a psychiatrist, thinks I should see one, too, since they know more about all the conditions and medications and all that. Is he right, or am I ok to keep seeing my primary care? I think I’m doing fine, but I guess my husband thinks I could do better.
Anne Fenton, MD: My guess is that you wonder if your husband may be right. If that is the case, there is no harm in consulting a mental health professional. I am sure your primary care would have no problem referring you to someone for a second opinion. Our job in the medical profession is to help people in the best way possible. We know this often includes referring our patients to people whose opinion and expertise may prove to be more helpful to our patients.