October is Health Literacy Month, and in mental health care, the most important information often comes from you. Putting feelings into words can be hard, especially in a short appointment. A little preparation helps your provider understand what you are going through.
Be specific
"I've been stressed" can mean many things. Details help:
- What it feels like: heavy, numb, on edge, irritable, racing thoughts, a pit in your stomach
- How often: every day, a few times a week, only at night
- How long: when it started and whether it is getting better or worse
- What it affects: sleep, appetite, work, school, relationships, things you used to enjoy
- What helps or makes it worse
Use a scale
Rating your mood from 0 to 10 each day for a week or two gives your provider a clear picture. The questionnaires you fill out at visits, such as the PHQ-9 and GAD-7, do the same thing in a standard way so changes can be tracked over time.
Mention your body, too
Depression and anxiety often show up physically: headaches, stomach trouble, a racing heart, tiredness or changes in sleep. These details matter, and some physical conditions, such as thyroid problems, can look like mood symptoms.
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Bring notes
Write down your top concerns, your questions, any medicines and supplements you take, and anything that has changed since your last visit. It is fine to read from your phone.
Ask, then say it back
Before you leave, make sure you know what the plan is and why. Repeating it in your own words, such as "So I will try this for four weeks and we will check in," catches misunderstandings while there is still time to ask.
Be honest, even when it is hard
Your provider has heard it before, and honest answers lead to better care. That includes thoughts of self-harm; telling your provider is how you get help, not a reason for judgment.
Sources: Healthy People 2030, Health Literacy; Health Literacy Month.
Our providers see adults in person in West Ashley and by secure video anywhere in South Carolina, including counseling. Request an appointment; new patients are often able to be scheduled within a week of requesting an appointment.
This article is general health information and does not replace advice from your own provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Describe what you are feeling, how often and for how long, what it affects and what helps or makes it worse. Bringing written notes is helpful.
Start with what you notice in your body or your routine, such as sleep, appetite or energy, and rate your mood from 0 to 10. Your provider will ask questions to fill in the rest.
Yes. Headaches, stomach problems, a racing heart and tiredness can be part of depression or anxiety, and some physical conditions can mimic mood symptoms.