Prepare for Your Appointments
Speaking with a health care provider about how you’re feeling is an important step toward feeling better. Preparing for your appointments helps you make the most of your time.
Turn each appointment into progress
When you’re living with depression or another mental health disorder, every appointment is a chance to take a step forward. Taking the time to prepare can make these moments more productive and less stressful. By writing down your questions, tracking your symptoms, and reflecting on how you’ve been feeling, you help your health care provider see the full picture of your experience.
Appointments are most effective when they’re two-way conversations. You should feel heard, informed, and supported in making decisions about your care. Planning ahead helps you share openly, stay organized, and leave each visit with a clear understanding of your next steps.
Before your first appointment
Before your appointment, take a moment to think about why you scheduled the visit. You can use the Getting Ready For Your First Appointment worksheet (PDF) to organize your thoughts. These notes can help your provider identify patterns and gain a better understanding of your situation.
Consider writing down your responses to questions such as:
- Do you ever feel extremely happy or energetic for extended periods?
- Do you or your family members have a history of similar symptoms or other health conditions?
- Do your symptoms affect your daily life, sleep, or appetite?
- Do you use alcohol or drugs? Have your habits changed?
- Have you experienced major life changes or stress recently?
- Have you had thoughts of suicide or self-harm?
- How long have they lasted? Are they constant or do they come and go?
- What, if anything, seems to make you feel better?
- What medications or supplements are you taking?
- What symptoms have you experienced recently?
- When did you or loved ones first notice your symptoms?
During your appointment
Talking about your feelings can be hard. Being open helps your provider understand what you’re going through and offer the best care possible. Share details about both physical symptoms (like headaches or sleep problems) and emotional symptoms (like sadness, anxiety, or loss of motivation).
If you’re seeing a new provider, it’s okay if it takes time to build trust. If the fit doesn’t feel right, you can ask for adjustments or a referral to someone new. You deserve a provider who listens and supports you.
Questions to ask about treatment
Asking questions shows you’re being proactive about your care. Here are some examples you might use depending on your treatment plan:
Ask these general questions about treatment:
- Are there any books, videos, or websites you would suggest?
- Can my loved ones be part of my care plan?
- How can I manage my other health conditions alongside this treatment?
- What alternatives are available?
- What might be causing my symptoms?
- What treatments do you recommend and why?
If your provider recommends therapy or other treatments, ask:
- How long until I start to feel better?
- Is it covered by my insurance?
- What can I expect during the process?
- Why do you suggest this treatment for me?
It’s important to tell your provider about any prescriptions you’re currently taking to help prevent possible drug interactions. If your provider recommends a new medication, be sure to ask:
- Are there generic options that are just as effective?
- How should I take it, and what precautions should I take?
- What is the name of the medication, and what does it do?
- What side effects should I be aware of?
- When might I expect results?
At future appointments
Stay open about your progress, side effects, and emotional changes. This helps your provider adjust your plan as needed. If the cost of seeing a provider is a concern, ask if they offer options like sliding-scale fees or less frequent visits. Some employers also offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that cover mental health care.