Will the GP read a note from my family?

[RadiatorDial]

I have really poor MH. I’ve always suffered with anxiety but never really told anyone other than close family who see what a wreck it makes me. I mentioned it to the GP once and they gave me pills that didn’t suit me, so they just said try mindfulness.

My health anxiety is through the roof. I struggle with any kind of change to my daily routine. I’m recently physically disabled and flat broke.

I’ve got an appointment with my GP next week to check in about my disability. It’s stressing me out to the point it causes me to vomit.

My brother wants to write me some notes (from him) to give to the GP about how much I suffer/find life difficult. He said he can articulate it better than I can. He can’t come with me as he lives abroad.

Can I give the GP these notes? Will they read them? Will it make me look ridiculous? I can’t say these things myself because I get so stressed in the appointment that I just want to get out asap.

Has anyone got experience of giving the GP something like this?

Yes definitely, if you're happy with the notes and want to share them. Or could you make some notes for yourself?

Yes, they’ll read them (and with your permission will scan them onto your notes).

Yes of course they will definitely read them. Try not to worry, remember it’s the GPs job and they hear about this stuff all the time. So many people struggle with mental health just like physical health.

Just be as open and honest as you can. Notes are a great idea so you don’t forget anything. You could even email them to the surgery before your appointment if you are really anxious about it.

hope it goes well x

I am sure the GP would read the notes from your sibling. But would it perhaps be more helpful if he were able to go to the appointment with you? He could then be supportive for you, and relay the information first hand. GL.

OP has already said that her brother lives abroad.

@RadiatorDial when I was having a really bad time last year I took a note to my GP as I couldn’t articulate my problem without bursting into tears. She read it and added a copy to my file.

I’m a GP. I’d be very happy to read a note like this so long as you were comfortable with me having it - it sounds like it would be helpful. Have you had any thoughts about what sort of support you might find helpful from the GP? For example would a referral for therapy help, or would you want to try any different medication if it’s suggested? Sometimes worth thinking about it in advance because it can be so tough to process things once you’re there. Good luck.

Thank you all for your replies. He wrote a note which was quite detailed and I didn’t think the GP would read it. That stressed me out!

I told the GP my update first then have them the note to add to the file. So at least it’s there on record.

I appreciate your reassurance, thank you everyone.x