Wanting to run away *SH trigger*

[JustEM]

It doesn't matter if it takes you ages to write the list. Some things just really are worth taking the time out for and right now improving your health is absolutely paramount. So take the time and write that list.... You're worth it.

Try not to worry too much about your GP appointment. You'll be opening up to somebody who already knows in advance that you're apprehensive and for that very reason has actually offered to give you as much time as possible in your appointment. That in itself is reassuring. Your GP sounds very considerate, perceptive and caring to me.

You also won't be telling the GP something that they haven't heard before. They're not there to judge you but only to help you. It's their job to help.

Perhaps you could firstly just write down (for the benefit of your own healing) absolutely everything possible that you think could go on the list. That way, you'll be getting everything out of your system first and this might feel like a great release for you. From there, then you could bullet point the main most important parts on a different list for the Doctor. I hope that helps.

There's no pressure to have to tell the Doctor absolutely every detail. For example, I have anorexia and if I went to the GP to explain my symptoms it would be enough for me to say 'I'm restricting my food intake' without needing to describe every single behaviour and reason behind this. I would just add to what level I was restricting (e.g. Severely, slightly) and how often (e.g. Every day, now and again.) The same idea could be applied to whatever struggles you are facing right now, perhaps? I hope that makes sense and helps you a little?

You could always hand the list to the Doctor to read if you didn't feel comfortable talking all that much.

Take care of yourself. Hope you have a nice weekend.

Em x