What do I need to ask or say to the Dr?

[silverstraw]

I have an appointment tomorrow with the Dr and I am not sure what to say. I am struggling with anxiety and low moods and stomach pains which I think are being caused by the anxiety. These appointments always go so fast and I never feel I can articulate myself properly. What do you think are the most important things to say or to ask? I am worried just being given a quick prescription for something or other (I am quite worried about possible side effects).

Why don't you write it down ?
Tell them you're
1.anxious and feeling low in mood.

1. Having stomach pains and not sure if it's linked.

Yes that's a good idea thanks.

I was wondering if there are things I should ask about any possible medications they might offer, are they hard to come off is the only thing I can think of at the moment.

See what they say.
They may offer anti depressants or some meds for anxiety.
There are lots of different ones.
Maybe try a Google before you go ?

Yes, good idea, thanks.

Hello, I remember feeling the same several years ago when I went to the GP about anxiety for the very first time.

Antidepressants is an ove used general term for a few different type of medications. I really think people should stop using the term. SSRI (Selective serrtonin reuptake inhibitors) are the most commonly prescribed these days I think.

Look at the NHS pages on antidepressants and Anti anxiety medications. It explains things well.

Also have a think about if you feel it is both anxiety and depression or more one than the other and share that with your doctor.

I would say:

• I have been feeling X
• it effects me in the following ways and give examples of thoughts feelings and possible physical symptoms
• then ask what the options available to you are.

Hopefully they will tell you about both therapy and meds available. If they suggest a particular medication, ask them why they have chosen that one.

It can feel really scary but it is the best thing I have ever done for myself. I took them for 16 months, coming off was easy enough. They don't fix you, they are a tool to help you get there yourself. But they don't suit everyone.

Thank you! That's really clear. Also so glad it was a good choice for you. I have been putting off this appointment for a very long time.