What's it like chatting with my GP?
Your GP will likely ask about:
- How you've been feeling lately, sometimes using simple questionnaires.
- Anything that's been on your mind, such as recent events, stress, or emotional changes.
- Your sleep, appetite, and daily routine.
- A bit about your medical history and maybe your family’s too.
- You might have a quick check-up, like blood pressure, weight, or possibly a blood test.
If you feel nervous, emotional, or unsure what to say, that's completely normal. You don’t need to explain everything perfectly. Simply saying, “I’m struggling and don’t know where to start” is more than enough. Your GP will guide the rest.
Before You Go: What Might Help
A little prep can really help:
- Write down how long you’ve been feeling this way, and any patterns you’ve noticed.
- Bring notes or screenshots from a mood tracker or journal if that works for you.
- If it helps you feel more confident, it’s completely fine to take someone along with you.
What if I feel fobbed off?
It can be disheartening to finally speak up and feel like your concerns aren't taken seriously. If this happens, remember that you can:
- Ask to speak with a different GP at the same practice.
- Clearly mention that you’re struggling with your mental health, as this can change how things are prioritised.
- If needed, raise your concerns with the practice manager. You deserve to be heard and supported.
What can I expect after our chat?
This depends on what comes up in your appointment:
- Check-ins: Your GP might want to see you again over the next few weeks before suggesting a plan.
- Diagnosis: You might be given a diagnosis like anxiety or depression. This may take time or involve a specialist opinion.
- Lifestyle changes: You could discuss small changes to your sleep, exercise, or diet that could make a difference.
- Referrals: Your GP might refer you to therapy, local mental health services, or other support options. They’ll usually explain how long this might take and what happens next.
- Medication: If medication is suggested, your GP will talk through it with you so you can decide together whether it’s something you want to try.
Driving? Some mental health conditions need to be reported to the DVLA. This is mostly a safety formality. Here's how that works.
Don’t want medication?
No problem at all. Medication is only one option. You won’t be pressured to take it. Be honest about how you feel and ask about other possibilities like talking therapies, peer support, or lifestyle-based approaches. Your GP should respect your choices and work with you to find the right fit.
Worried about getting emotional?
It’s completely normal to cry, freeze up, or lose your words during the appointment. GPs are used to this and won’t judge. You can pause, take a breath, or even write things down and hand them over if talking feels too hard in the moment.
Will my chat stay just between us?
Yes, most of the time it will. Your GP is bound by confidentiality. The only time they might share anything is if they’re seriously worried about your safety or someone else’s. Even then, they will usually let you know and talk about it with you first.
What about my medical records?
Every appointment adds a new entry to your NHS record, which is kept secure and private. Only professionals involved in your care can see it, and only when necessary. If you're curious about what’s written, you have the right to request access at any time.
Follow-up care: What happens next?
You might get a phone call, text, or letter about a follow-up appointment. If you’ve been referred elsewhere, it could take a little time to hear back. If things get worse or you don’t hear anything, call your GP again or contact 111 for advice.
Prefer to stick with the same doctor? Just ask. Most GP surgeries will try to make this happen if you let them know.
Not sure about getting a diagnosis?
That’s perfectly okay. Some people feel relief when given a diagnosis. Others feel it doesn’t quite reflect their experience. You can always ask for more information, request time to think, or decide not to have a formal diagnosis added to your records.
What if I'm a young adult or teen?
If you're under 18, there might be a few different rules. But you still have rights, and your opinion matters. GPs are trained to support younger people too. Want to find out more?