At Your Appointment

Anxiety Appointment Guide

Ask the right questions at your next doctor’s appointment. Answer two questions below to personalize your appointment guide.
  • Please describe the symptoms and issues you’re having that led you to schedule this online appointment. Start at the beginning of this current episode and tell me how and when things have changed and progressed.
  • Are you keeping a symptom diary to track your anxiety? Can we review it?
  • How often have you noticed anxiety symptoms? More days than not?
  • Do you find yourself avoiding situations due to your anxiety?
  • How often do you drink alcohol or use recreational drugs?
  • Are you feeling sad, depressed, disinterested in life, or worthless?
  • Describe your symptoms. Do you experience nervousness, restlessness, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, digestive problems, or sleep problems?
  • When did you first notice your symptoms? Did a loved one bring any symptoms to your attention?
  • Are your symptoms constant or do they come and go?
  • Would you describe your symptoms as panic attacks?
  • Does anything seem to trigger your symptoms?
  • Do you have a family history of anxiety or other mental health problems?
  • What side effects have you noticed with your medication?
  • What is your main concern about your symptoms?
  • What new symptoms are you experiencing?
  • Do my symptoms mean I have an anxiety disorder?
  • How do you diagnose anxiety disorders? What are the criteria?
  • Could another condition be causing or contributing to my anxiety?
  • How do you treat anxiety disorders?
  • Do I need to see a psychiatrist, therapist or counselor?
  • How long does it take for anti-anxiety medicines to start working?
  • What are the side effects of anti-anxiety medicines?
  • What is the next step if my current treatment doesn't help me?
  • Who should I or my loved ones contact in an emergency?
  • What programs can help me quit alcohol or drug use?
  • What should I do if I forget to take my medicine?
  • Are my new or different symptoms related to anxiety or something else?
  • What is the best treatment plan for my anxiety?
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Last Review Date: 2018 Nov 7
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
  1. Anxiety Disorders. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anxiety/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350967
  2. Screening for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Anxiety and Depression Association of America. https://adaa.org/screening-generalized-anxiety-disorder-gad