Anxiety Disorder Doctor Appointment — What to Prepare
Anxiety disorders are common but often misunderstood. Many people feel ashamed discussing anxiety, or worry their symptoms aren't "bad enough" to warrant treatment. Anxiety has real physical symptoms, interferes with daily functioning, and is highly treatable. Your GP needs clear information about when anxiety started, what triggers it, and how it affects your life.
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What to tell your doctor
- 1When anxiety started: suddenly, or gradually over time
- 2What situations or thoughts trigger anxiety: work, social, health, separation
- 3Physical symptoms: racing heart, chest pain, shortness of breath, trembling, sweating, dizziness, stomach issues
- 4How often anxiety occurs: occasional, frequent, constant
- 5Whether you have panic attacks (sudden intense fear with physical symptoms)
- 6How anxiety affects daily life: work performance, relationships, sleep, ability to do activities you enjoy
- 7Any avoidance behaviours: places or situations you avoid due to anxiety
- 8Previous treatments or coping strategies you have tried
- 9Family history of anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions
Questions to ask your doctor
- Q1.What type of anxiety do you think I have?
- Q2.Should I have any blood tests or physical assessment?
- Q3.What treatment options are available: medication, therapy, both?
- Q4.What medications help anxiety, and what are the side effects?
- Q5.How long does it take for medication to work?
- Q6.Would talking therapy (CBT) help my anxiety?
- Q7.What can I do right now to manage anxiety symptoms?
- Q8.Is there a link between my anxiety and physical symptoms (palpitations, dizziness)?
Don't forget to bring
- ✓Detailed description of what anxiety feels like: thoughts, physical symptoms, triggers
- ✓When it started and what was happening in your life at that time
- ✓List of any substances or medications you use
- ✓Sleep pattern and quality
- ✓Family history of mental health conditions
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