How do I start conversation with Dr?

[WoodysHat]

I've made an appointment with my GP for Friday to tell him about my anxiety, and I think, possible PND.

Just having made the appt is making me feel even more anxious, I've had to admit to DH that I'm really not coping. Feel close to tears all the time and I just know that as soon as I walk into my GP's room and he says 'how are you' I'm going to break down. Nothing wrong in that I guess but I want to tell him how I'm feeling rather than just turning into a blubbering mess :(

So, what do I say? This is my first appt for this so he won't have any prior knowledge as such. He is a lovely man, easy to talk to and I know him well so why am I struggling with what to say?

Help!

Well done for making that appointment

Speaking it out loud somehow makes it more real. Plus, you will probably get a sympathetic reaction which you know will make you cry = feel less in control.

Perhaps you could write down your symptoms, thoughts, feelings while you are feeling calmer so that you can hand them to him if you clam up.

I've not had PND but a bout of similar symptoms led me to my GP some years ago. I remember telling him that I needed to talk to someone about stuff that I wasn't coping with. I was swallowing tears but IIRC he made a couple of calls and got some counselling set up without asking me lots of questions, for which I was grateful.

You've made a step in the right direction so hang on in there.

Can you write down how you are feeling and take it with you.
When you go in plan to say something like 'I'm not coping very well, I wasnt sure how to say it so I've writtten something down' and knowing what you will say and that its not a lot to remember (as it will all be written down) should hopefully ease your anxiety about the appt a bit
Good luck

I would write down want you want to say. I had to do the same a few weeks ago when I walked in I burst into tears but he understood and was fantastic. Try not to worry I know it's easy for me too say but the doctor will help.