How to find a RLS Psychiatrist?

[BarryO]

Does anybody know of an easy way to find a psychiatrist that specializes in RLS, maybe even by locale? For example, is there some sort of psychiatrist registry or directory that lists specialties? I struck out using a basic Google search. Insights appreciated!

[ViewsAskew]

Not that I know of, sorry to say.

[Frunobulax]

Does anybody know of an easy way to find a psychiatrist that specializes in RLS, maybe even by locale? For example, is there some sort of psychiatrist registry or directory that lists specialties? I struck out using a basic Google search. Insights appreciated!

Not trying to be nosy, but why are you looking specifically for a psychiatrist? Neurologists are better trained for RLS treatment, as many psychiatrists tend to forget about the somatic diseases. If you want a differential diagnosis between a psychiological and a neurological condition I'd always suggest the neurologist. I suffer from a somatic disease that is frequently misdiagnosed as depression, and (sorry to say so) my opinion on (most) psychiatrists is, well, better not put it into words or the mods would have to intervene

If you're looking for RLS-compatible medication, I suggest getting the book by Buchfuhrer "Clinical management of Restless Legs Syndrome" which has an extensive list of drugs (including antidepressants) and whether they are harmful or beneficial for RLS sufferers. Its target audience are probably doctors, but it's quite readable in my opinion. (Not sure if there is a similar book that is newer, Buchfuhrers book is from 2013.)

[badnights]

I would imagine it's difficult to talk about any psychiatric issues with a psychiatrist who doesn't understand WED/RLS, when you have WED/RLS and it's ruining your life. It colors everything you do. The burden of having to explain it and to correct the psychiatrist's misconceptions would be very draining (and would take up a lot of paid-for time).

[BarryO]

Yep badnights, that's the point. At my worst, after a couple months of sleepless nights, depression was setting in and really making it hard to cope. I'm surprised how many doctors of all ilks claim to know RLS but really don't. If we wait until desperation sets in to wish for psychiatric therapy, we're far too exhausted to "doctor shop" in hopes of eventually finding one that really "gets it." I'm fortunate to have come through it, in part because of insights of this forum, and finally finding a drug that works (an opioid).

Wouldn't it be nice if there was some sort of direct path to legit psychiatrists with RLS speciality for those who are nearing the end of their tolerance?! We can hope. Maybe such a registry will be created as the whole WED/RLS body of knowledge grows. In the mean time, I hope desperate sufferers (and their loved ones) will remember this forum. It helps!

[badnights]

A registry of therapists - not just psychiatrists - would be wonderful!

But we can't even get a reliable registry of neurologists, GPs and sleep specialists who are knowledgeable about WED/RLS. The Foundation is trying (the registry can be accessed under "Find a healthcare provider" on the Treatment page of the rls.org website), but since doctors self-report to the registry, you still have to vet the names you find there.

I'm glad you've gotten onto a med that works. Life is such hell without ----

[ViewsAskew]

I am hopeful that my nieces and their children won't have to go what we have...but the thought that we could be treated easily anywhere about anything? Cannot even imagine it.

Husband and I were thinking of places to retire - and then the reality of leaving Dr B set in...

[badnights]

Ya, I hear you. I'm afraid to move because I don't know if I'll find another doctor who gets it (despite her continual balking at iron infusions)/