Working well with your healthcare team

Being prepared for your appointment

Because there is often a lot to cover during your initial GP appointment, it's a good idea to be well prepared. It can be helpful to think about a few things ahead of time and write down some notes to take with you including:

• A list of your symptoms, when they occur and whether anything seems to make them better or worse.

• What has caused you to feel stressed or anxious? Include any major life changes or stressful events you've dealt with recently. Also include any traumatic experiences you've had in the past.

• Any other health problems you may have. Include both physical conditions and mental health issues.

• A list of all medications you're taking. Be sure to write down the doses and include any over-the-counter vitamins or supplements.

Your appointment time with your doctor is limited. Preparing a list of questions may help you to remember everything you want to discuss. You may want to ask:

• What's the most likely cause of my symptoms?

• Are there other possible situations, psychological issues or physical health problems that could be causing or worsening my anxiety?

• Do I need any medical investigations or other tests?

• Are there any changes I need to make to my lifestyle?

• Should I see a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health specialist?

• Would medication help?

• Are there any leaflets/reading materials I can take home with me? What websites do you recommend visiting?

• What support groups are there and what services do they offer?

Common questions you may want to ask

1. Is this really Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

   It’s important to make sure your symptoms are due to GAD and not another condition. GAD is often accompanied by other problems such as depression, other anxiety disorders or substance abuse. For treatment to succeed, it’s important to get help for all of the problems you’re dealing with. The healthcare professionals you meet are trained in making accurate diagnoses and will help you get appropriate treatment.

2. How long will the treatment(s) take to work?

   This depends on the treatment in question. Some of the medications can improve symptoms quickly while others can take 2-4 weeks to show any effect. Many of the psychological therapies can take a few weeks to show any improvement.

3. What if I don’t feel better?

   If you don’t feel better you should go back to your doctor to discuss other options. Don’t give up as there are options out there to suit every one. Ask your GP about the services that are available in your area.

4. What are my treatment options?

   Before you begin any form of treatment, your GP should discuss all your options with you, outlining the pros and cons of each, while also making you aware of any possible risks or side-effects. You and your GP will make a joint decision about which treatment is most suited for you, taking into account your circumstances and preferences.

5. Do some medications have side-effects, and if so what are they?

   Though generally well tolerated, all GAD treatments may cause side effects in some people.

6. What relaxation techniques might help?

   There are a range of different relaxation techniques that you might find useful. Progressive muscle relaxation can help you release tension and take ‘time out’ from your worries. The technique involves systematically tensing and then releasing different muscle groups in your body. As your body relaxes, your mind will follow. Other techniques include deep breathing and meditation.

7. What talking therapy / IAPT services are available locally?

   This depends on where you live in the UK, as the way these services are offered varies from place to place. Your GP, as well as local and national support groups will be able to give you more information on the services in your area.

8. Are there local support groups I can join?

   This depends on where you live in the UK. Your GP and Anxiety UK will be able to advise you on the local support groups that exist in your area. Don’t forget that online support groups are a really convenient resource.