How to speak to your GP

A good starting point is to make a list of things you want to talk about. This can be how you’ve been feeling, what you’re struggling with, or questions you want to ask. Writing things down can help you think about how you’re feeling and prepare you for the appointment. You can take the list with you so you remember what you want to say, or you can hand it to the GP at your appointment.

You can use docready to build a checklist of what you want to talk about. They have different topics you can choose from to create a list that you can take with you.

You might find it helpful to chat with someone you trust, like a friend or family member, about the appointment. Try practising what you want to talk about and questions you want to ask to help you feel comfortable talking about your mental health in the way you want to.

You could also ask someone you trust to come and wait with you before your appointment. If you want to, they can come into the appointment with you. But talk to them beforehand about how you want them to support you. Remember, there is no pressure to take someone into your appointment - it is up to you.

Making your voice heard is important, and it's your right to speak up. You know best how you’re feeling, so don’t be afraid to tell your GP what you want.

Below are some tips to help you feel in control of your appointment.

If you want to take medication for your mental health, discuss this with your GP.

They will discuss with you why you want to take medication. They may offer alternative treatments, which you can chat through. If they do talk about other options, this doesn’t mean they’re ignoring what you want, but you can always ask to speak to another doctor for a second opinion if you disagree.

If you are offered medication but you don’t want to take it, that’s okay. Talk openly with your doctor about what concerns you have and whether there are any other options for you. It is important that you feel comfortable with your treatment.

If you’re already on medication and don’t want to take it anymore, it's important to speak to your doctor before you decide to stop. It is your choice to stop, but the GP can explore with you alternative treatments or dosage options so you can make an informed decision. They'll also help you plan a gradual stop and avoid withdrawal effects.

For more information about taking medication for your mental health, have a look at our guide to medications.

If you want to talk about getting counselling or therapy with your GP, they’ll speak to you about your mental health, what options there are, and the next steps for you. If you and your GP decide counselling is the best option, they’ll organise a referral.

The services available will depend on your age and location. If you are under 18, your GP is likely to refer you to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). This referral can mean that you might be put on a waiting list. The GP might suggest other ways you can be supported while waiting for counselling.

If you’re already doing counselling and you’re not happy with it, you can speak to your counsellor. If you’re not comfortable discussing it with your counsellor, you can also speak to your GP. You can talk to them about why you’re not happy with the counselling and what you want to change.

It’s okay if you’re not happy with the counselling. Those sessions are a space to support you. For more information on counselling and what to do if you are unhappy with the sessions, have a look at our counselling and therapy page.