Preparing for an appointment

If a medical evaluation rules out physical causes for your behavior, your primary care provider may make a referral to a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist.

Take a family member or friend along to your appointment, if possible. With your permission, someone who has known you for a long time may be able to answer questions or share information with the doctor that you don't think to bring up.

What you can do

Before your appointment, make a list of:

• Any symptoms you or your family noticed, and for how long
• Key personal and medical information, including current physical or mental health conditions, personal or family history of mental illness, traumatic experiences, or major stressors
• All medications you take, including the names and doses of any medications, herbs, vitamins or other supplements
• Questions you want to ask your doctor to make the most of your appointment

Some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What is likely causing my symptoms?
• What are other possible causes?
• What treatments are most likely to be effective for me?
• How much can I expect my symptoms to improve with treatment?
• How often will I need treatment, and for how long?
• Are there medications that can help? Is so, what are the possible side effects?
• Is there a generic alternative to the medication you're prescribing?
• Are there any printed materials I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask any other questions during your appointment.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions, such as:

• What are your symptoms?
• When did you or your family first notice these symptoms?
• How are your symptoms affecting your life?
• Have relatives or friends expressed concern about your behavior?
• Do you have any close relationships?
• If you're not satisfied with work, school or relationships, what do you think is causing your problems?
• Have you ever thought about harming yourself or others? Have you ever actually done so?
• Have any of your blood relatives, such as a parent or sibling, been diagnosed with or treated for mental illness?

Be ready to answer these questions to reserve time to go over points you want to spend more time on.