Preparing for an appointment

You may start by contacting your doctor. After your initial appointment, your doctor may refer you to a mental health professional who can help diagnose your symptoms and provide a treatment plan.

You may want to ask a trusted family member or friend to be present for your appointment, if possible, to help you remember key information.

Here's some information to help you prepare for your appointment.

What you can do

Before your appointment, make a list of:

• Any symptoms you've been experiencing and for how long. Your doctor will want to know the extent to which these symptoms are affecting your daily life, including work and personal relationships.
• Your key personal information, especially any additional major stress or change you've experienced since your loved one died, such as serious illness, significant family disruptions or financial problems.
• Medical information, including other physical or mental health conditions with which you've been diagnosed.
• All medications, vitamins, herbs or other supplements you're taking, and the dosages.
• Questions you'd like to ask your doctor.

Some questions to ask your doctor or mental health professional include:

• Do you think my symptoms are more severe than what's typical after a loved one's death?
• Do you think psychotherapy would help me?
• Are medications available that could improve my symptoms?
• What are the possible side effects of those medications?
• What self-care steps are most likely to help me?
• Are there local support groups or online support groups that might help me?
• How long do you expect it will take me to feel better with treatment?
• Will I eventually feel like myself again?

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

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor or mental health professional will likely ask you a number of questions. Be ready to answer them to reserve time to go over any points you want to focus on. Questions may include:

• How often do you think about your deceased loved one?
• Do you believe you could have prevented your loved one's death?
• Do you ever wish that you had died along with your loved one?
• How well are you functioning in your daily life, such as work, household maintenance and relationships?
• Have you experienced any other major stresses, changes or loss since your loved one died?
• Have you had trouble eating or sleeping since your loved one died?
• How much social support would you say you have, such as from relatives, friends or a church community?
• Have you been diagnosed with any medical conditions?
• Have you ever been treated for mental health conditions? If yes, what type of therapy was most beneficial?
• Have you ever thought about harming yourself or others?
• Do you drink alcohol or use recreational drugs? If so, how often?