Don’t wait for a health care provider to ask about your mental health—take the initiative and start the conversation yourself. Being proactive can help you get the support you need sooner. If you’re unsure where to begin, consider discussing your mental health concerns during an appointment with a primary care provider (PCP). This is often a doctor, but could also be a physician assistant or nurse practitioner. Mental health is a vital part of overall health, and people experiencing mental disorders may also be at greater risk for other medical conditions such as heart disease or diabetes. In many primary care settings, you might be asked questions about anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts. However, even if your provider doesn’t bring it up, you can take this opportunity to speak openly. A PCP can connect you with a mental health professional for further evaluation and care. Additional resources, such as the NIMH’s Find Help for Mental Illnesses webpage, are also available to assist you in finding the right treatment or provider.
To make the most of your visit, it’s helpful to prepare in advance. Because health care providers often have limited time, thinking through your concerns ahead of the appointment can ensure you address what’s most important. Write down the specific questions or issues you’d like to discuss. Bringing a written list can help you stay organized and focused during the conversation. Additionally, make a complete list of any medications you’re currently taking—including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, vitamins, and any other treatments—as this information can help your provider make better-informed decisions. It’s also valuable to review your family’s mental health history. Some mental illnesses run in families, and knowing about any conditions among your relatives can help assess your own risk, identify early warning signs, and guide preventive care.
When it comes time for your visit, you might find it helpful to bring a trusted friend or relative along. Managing mental health concerns can feel overwhelming, and having someone by your side can provide emotional support. They can help you take notes, remember key details from the discussion, or even offer insights into how you’ve been feeling. While some people prefer to have a companion present throughout the entire appointment, others may choose to speak privately with the provider first, then invite a support person to join when treatment recommendations are discussed. Either approach is perfectly valid—choose what makes you feel most comfortable.
During your conversation with the provider, being honest is essential. Your health care provider can offer effective help only when they have a full and accurate understanding of what you’re going through. Remember that what you share is confidential and protected by law—it won’t be shared without your permission. Describe your symptoms clearly and specifically: when they started, how severe they are, and how often they occur. Be open about any recent life changes, major stressors, or traumatic events that might be affecting your mental health. Common symptoms of mental illness include persistent sadness or anxiety, feelings of hopelessness, irritability, fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, and physical complaints such as headaches or digestive issues without an apparent cause. Thoughts of death or suicide should always be shared with a provider, as they require immediate attention.
If you have any doubts or questions, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. Understanding your diagnosis and treatment options is key to making informed decisions. If a treatment doesn’t feel right for you, speak up—there may be alternative approaches to consider. It’s not uncommon to try a few options or even seek a second opinion before finding what works best for you. Mental health treatment is not one-size-fits-all, and it often takes time and collaboration to develop a plan that meets your needs.
Taking that first step—starting the conversation—is a sign of strength. With preparation, honesty, and support, you can work with your health care provider to find a path toward better mental well-being.