What to say to GP

[Sorryshesgone]

I have an appointment with my gp. I have never asked for any help with mental health issues before but lately have been so anxious and low in mood.
Now I am second guessing myself that there is even anything wrong with me, it's all my own imagination and also worrying about having mh issues on my medical records. Feeling sick with worry about going to the gp about my worrying!!

Oh I have felt that exact feeling!

If you’re scared to vocalise it, write it and show the gp. Even show them this post?

What you’re feeling is real and shouldn’t be underplayed. You can do this.

Write down exactly what you would like them to know and hand it to them. A common problem is leaving the office having not told them something you really needed them to know.

Good luck.

I was feeling exactly the same way a week ago, OP. But I actually found it much easier than I thought I would to talk once I got in there. I just said I’d been struggling with feeling really anxious lately, like I was constantly worrying/on edge and couldn’t ever relax, and that it was feeling really overwhelming. Then she asked me a few questions about myself, whether I’d tried any treatment in the past, and what coping strategies I normally used. She was so understanding and didn’t make me feel like I was wasting her time at all. In my case, I was then prescribed antidepressants, because I’ve had CBT counselling in the past (privately, not through the NHS), and didn’t feel the techniques were enough at the moment.

As others have said, writing down your key points in advance is a good idea, then you can either give it to your GP to read or use it to remind yourself of what you wanted to say. Just be honest, and remember they want to help you. Good luck!

Thanks everyone for your advice. Really do appreciate it!

Just checking in.. how did you do?