Getting Help—How To Deal With the Initial Appointment
Before you go to see your GP or Mental Health Clinician for the first time, it may help to know how to prepare. Many people feel frustrated following their first appointment because they feel they haven’t expressed themselves clearly due to the stress and pressure they experience when meeting a new clinician for the first time. This section will help you clearly express how you are feeling and hopefully therefore, receive suitable treatment.
You may like to make notes in response to the following points/questions:
First, think about what it is that is bothering you:
- Write a few sentences about how you have been feeling and what effect it is having on you.
- How long has it been bothering you?
- Has it changed?
- Has it got worse?
If there are significant events or dates when something related happened write a brief note to remind you.
If you have relevant notes or test results, bring them with you.
Bring along a list of all medication you are currently taking, including dose and frequency.
Think about any questions you may like to ask.
Think about the outcome you would like:
- Do you need something clarifying, such as a formal diagnosis?
- Do you want assistance to help you change the way you are feeling?
- Do you need help dealing with a current crisis?
Remember, you can bring a family member or friend along for moral support if you wish and with very few exceptions, your consultation will be confidential and no information will be released without your prior consent.
