How to Talk to Your Doctor About Anxiety (Even If You Feel Nervous to Bring It Up)

Written By Emily Pico

Talking to a doctor about anxiety can feel intimidating. Many people worry they’ll sound “dramatic,” “overly sensitive,” or like their concerns aren’t serious enough. Others don’t know where to start or feel anxious about talking about anxiety—which is incredibly common.

Here’s the good news:
Your doctor talks about anxiety every single day.
And you deserve support for what you’re experiencing.

Below are therapist-informed strategies to help you feel more confident, organized, and grounded when discussing anxiety with your doctor.

1. Start by naming the purpose of the visit

You don’t need a perfect script. A simple, direct opening helps your doctor understand what to focus on.

Try saying:
“I’ve been experiencing anxiety, and I’d like to talk about what’s been going on.”

This gives your doctor a clear direction and communicates that this conversation is important.

2. Describe your symptoms in concrete terms

Instead of trying to explain “I feel anxious,” talk about what that actually looks or feels like for you.

You can share:

  • Physical symptoms: racing heart, stomach aches, muscle tension, dizziness

  • Emotional symptoms: worry, dread, irritability, fear something bad will happen

  • Cognitive symptoms: trouble concentrating, overthinking, difficulty making decisions

  • Behavioral symptoms: avoiding certain situations, trouble sleeping, pacing, crying spells

The more specific you can be, the easier it is for your doctor to understand the full picture.

3. Prep notes before the appointment

It can be hard to remember everything when you’re anxious. Jot down:

  • When the anxiety started

  • How often it shows up

  • What triggers it

  • How it affects your daily life

  • What you’ve already tried (sleep, exercise, therapy, mindfulness, etc.)

You can bring your notes and even read from them directly. It’s normal, and many doctors appreciate the clarity.

4. Tell your doctor how anxiety impacts your functioning

Doctors use this as a key measure for treatment planning.

Examples:

  • “I’m having trouble getting through work.”

  • “I avoid driving because of panic.”

  • “I’m waking up multiple times a night.”

  • “It’s hard to take care of my kids when the anxiety spikes.”

This helps your doctor understand that the anxiety is not just uncomfortable—it’s disruptive.

5. Share any family history or past experiences

If anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health conditions run in your family, mention it.
If you’ve tried medication or therapy before, share what helped and what didn’t.

Example:
“I took an SSRI years ago and it helped, but the side effects were rough.”

This helps your doctor tailor recommendations.

6. Ask the questions you’re truly wondering about

It’s okay to ask:

  • “Could this be anxiety or something else?”

  • “Would medication be helpful?”

  • “What lifestyle changes might ease symptoms?”

  • “Should I see a therapist or psychiatrist?”

  • “How long does treatment usually take?”

A good doctor won’t rush you—they’ll guide you.

7. Be honest about what you are and aren’t open to

If medication scares you, say so.
If therapy feels overwhelming, name it.
If you’re unsure what you want, that’s okay too.

Try:
“I’m open to options, but I want to understand the pros and cons.”

Your doctor can’t support you well without knowing your comfort level.

8. If you feel dismissed, ask for clarification or a second opinion

Most doctors want to help, but if something feels off, you can say:

“I’m feeling a little brushed off. Can you help me understand your thinking?”

Or, simply:
“I’d like a second opinion.”

Your mental health deserves thoughtful care.

9. Remember: anxiety is a medical issue, not a personal failure

You’re not “just stressed.”
You’re not supposed to “handle it on your own.”
And you’re not burdening anyone by asking for support.

Talking to your doctor is a proactive, responsible step.

Final Thoughts

Anxiety is treatable, but you don’t have to diagnose yourself, minimize your symptoms, or guess what to do next.
Your doctor can help you create a plan that feels realistic, compassionate, and tailored to your needs.

Taking the first step—even if your voice shakes—is an act of care for your future self.

Emily Pico
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