Santé mentale 101 | CAMH

For lots of us finding the words to ask for help can be a real struggle even when we're feeling well but if you're trying to open up about your mental health for the first time it can feel even harder for many of us our GP is the person we have that first conversation with but they are also often someone we hardly know and can be really busy this can make us feel uncomfortable talking about our deepest and most personal feelings you may have been worrying more than usual maybe you're finding it hard to enjoy life or you're not sleeping if you're having any thoughts and feelings which are making your day-to-day life difficult it's always okay to ask for help here are some ideas on how prepare give yourself lots of time to get to your appointment so you don't feel rushed or stressed write down what you want to say in advance find words or phrases that represent how you feel or print out any information that helps you describe what's going on for you if you have a lot to say ask the receptionist for a longer appointment taking the time pressure off might help you to relax and open up about how you feel ask a friend or family member who knows you well to come with you they can back you up if you're feeling nervous or unsure of what you're saying be honest and open tell the doctor how you're feeling what does it been like being you over the past few months don't worry about fitting in with any particular diagnosis use the words and descriptions that feel natural to you there's no secret passwords to getting help no specific things you need to say or do there is no wrong way to tell someone how you're feeling try not to worry that your problems are too small or unimportant everyone deserves help yes everyone yes you for more information on getting support from your GP including what to do if you don't get the help you need go to mind or go to UK / find the words and don't forget to like share and subscribe to help us make sure everyone the mental health problem gets the support and respect they need.