Stage 6 · Lesson 5 of 7
What to say at a first appointment
Many people do not book because they do not know what to say. You do not need the right words. A simple start works: "I have been feeling low and anxious for about two months, and it is affecting my studies and sleep."
Before the appointment, write down what you have been feeling, for how long, what makes it better or worse, how it affects sleep, eating, studies or work, and any thoughts of self-harm. Your weekly check-in notes from stage 1 help here. Mention any medicines you take and any physical health problems.
Write your questions too: how confidential is this, what happens next, how many sessions might I need, what does it cost? It is fine to say you feel nervous.
Common trapdownplaying how bad it is because you want to seem fine.
A question to check yourself and an AI practice session come when you add the roadmap to your account. Add it
Resources for this stage
Start with
- GuideFreeMind: mental health information and support
Mind
What different talking therapies involve and what to expect from them
Practise
Keep handy
Also worth your time
Struggling right now? If you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself, contact local emergency services or a crisis line: Find a helpline (any country), Umang (Pakistan), Tele-MANAS, 14416 (India).