✅ How to Prepare for Your First Mental Health Appointment

Write Down Your Concerns

• • What symptoms or struggles are bringing you in? (e.g., anxiety, low mood, trouble sleeping)
• • How long have you been feeling this way?
• • Is anything making your symptoms better or worse?

Make a List of Your Medications

• • Include prescriptions, over-the-counter meds, and supplements
• • Mention any past medications for mental health (if applicable)

Know Your Family History

• • Any family history of mental illness, substance use, or suicide?
• • Family patterns can help inform your treatment plan

Think About Your Goals

• • What do you want help with? (e.g., coping with anxiety, improving mood)
• • Are you open to therapy, medication, or both?

❓ Questions You Can Ask Your Mental Health Provider

General Questions

• • What type of therapy or treatment do you recommend for what I’m going through?
• • How long will it take to start feeling better?
• • How often will we meet?
• • What should I do if I feel worse between appointments?

If Medication Is Discussed

• • What are the benefits and possible side effects of this medication?
• • How long does it take to work?
• • Can I take this with my other medications?
• • What if I want to stop taking it?

Therapy-Specific

• • What kind of therapy do you practice? (e.g., CBT, DBT, trauma-informed)
• • Have you treated people with similar concerns to mine?
• • What does a typical session look like?

💡 Tips for a Successful First Visit

• • Be honest — even if it feels awkward.
• • It’s okay to bring notes or a list.
• • You don’t have to share everything at once.
• • You can ask for a break or pause the conversation.
• • If the provider doesn’t feel like the right fit, it’s okay to switch.