How do I discuss my mental health needs with my doctor?

Are you concerned about your mental health?Do youwant todiscuss it with your doctor but you're not sure how to initiate this conversation?

• Write down symptoms you're feeling and how your mood is affecting your day-to-day life.

• Write down key personal information, including upsetting events in your past and any current major stressful events.

• Make a list of medical information, including other physical or mental health conditions and the names and amounts of medications, herbal remedies, or supplements you take.

• Take a family member or friend along to your appointment if you need someone there to support you.

Ask your doctor any questions that apply to your situation:

• What type of mental health concerns might I have?

• Why can't I deal with my mental health concerns on my own?

• How do you treat my type of mental illness?

• Will counseling or psychotherapy help?

• Are there medications that might help?

• How long will treatment take?

• What can I do to help myself?

• Do you have any brochures or other resources that I can have?

• What websites do you recommend?

Initiate the conversation by stating how you're feeling. Here are some examples of how to begin that conversation.

I think I may be depressed. I have been down lately and have lost interest in the things I used to enjoy.  I feel tired all of the time.  I am not well. I’m surviving.  I’m hanging in there.  I feel off.

I have been feeling anxious lately. Small things are causing me to freak out. I worry about everything. I am so worried that I cannot sleep at night. I have this feeling of dread and doom.

Do

• State your concerns as clearly and plainly as possible.

• Be as open and honest with your doctor as possible.

• Refer to your notes.

• Try to understand the diagnosis process.

• Lean on your support person if you brought them with you.

Don't

• Suddenly deny your symptoms because you're uncomfortable with the conversation.

• Give up before treatment has begun.

• Forget to take notes about the conversation and review them after the appointment.

• Follow up with the treatment plan.

• Follow up with your doctor if you have questions.

• Schedule another appointment if you weren't able to be completely honest with your doctor.

• Be patient.

• Request a second opinion if you're not pleased with your doctor's diagnosis or treatment plan.

• Get more information about your diagnosis and treatment plan.