Anxiety - but can't get the words out to tell GP

[ThomasShelbysBunnet]

I know that I've always been a 'worrier' ever since I was small, but over the last number of years it's really developed fully into the throes of anxiety.
I had a GP appointment on Tuesday and was trying to steel myself to open up about it, but ultimately I just couldn't bring myself to say the words. My heart rate was sky high, and she took my blood pressure for the other medication I was there for, and I suppose I hoped she would notice and ask me, but instead she was talking about the schools going back.

How can I overcome this? I need help.

Sorry you're dealing with anxiety, it really is awful.

Is there anyone you could take with you who could just explain at the start of the appointment. The hardest thing is saying those first words. Alternatively, I've heard of some people writing a few things down and giving a note to the doctor. Use the note to explain that you're struggling with anxiety and that find it hard to say. The GP should then ask the 'right' questions and it might be easier to talk then.

for you.

I need to go the GP for my anxiety as it’s not getting any better. I had a panic attack all day Saturday at the thought of having to go and talk about it

The only plan that I’ve come up with is to take a trusted friend. She already know about my anxiety and has seen me panicking. She can help me when I freeze up and tell the GP nothing is wrong!!

Take someone with you to act as an advocate

Write it down and give to GP either at or before the appointment

Tell the receptionist when booking and ask her to make a note on your appointment booking (where I work we can put notes/reason for the appointment etc)

Telephone consultation if you'd find that easier than face to face

Write it before hand & pass the note to GP - book today, they want to help.

No one really knows the extent of it at all really, not even my DH. I've very much seen as a strong capable person IRL, and I've not done anything to dissuade people from that opinion. I'm like that duck who is frantically paddling to keep my head above water

Write it down. Symptoms, thoughts etc. The hardest part is the first bit. I rehearsed and rehearsed as I felt so stupid saying it out loud. The nurse prac I told was amazing. All the GPS I've seen since. It's incredibly common. You are not alone. Xx

I go as a chaperone / advocate for a friend in the village - not so much anxiety - but because they forget all of the symptoms and this order that things have happened in and also because they feel embarrassed talking about bleeding and other symptoms. I can also help by remembering what the doctor said, question anything that doesn't make immediate sense and then write it down for my friend when we leave in order to avoid later confusion. It seems to work well and has actually sped up the referral process by having someone who pushes just a little harder rather than being quietly accepting. If taking someone isn't possible, write down what it is that you want to say. Doctors would rather understand what's wrong with you and would be perfectly happy with however you choose to communicate it.