A first appointment with a psychiatrist can feel like a big step. Doing a little preparation means you’ll spend the consultation talking about what matters, not wrestling with a microphone. Here’s a simple checklist.
The day before
Check your confirmation. Make sure you know the date, time and how to join the video call. Save the link somewhere easy to find.
Test your equipment. Join a video call with a friend, or open your device’s camera app, to confirm your camera and microphone work. If you’re using a laptop, check the browser has permission to use them.
Gather your information. Your psychiatrist will ask about many areas of your life and health. It helps to have to hand:
- the names and doses of any medicines you take, including over-the-counter and herbal ones;
- your GP practice details;
- any letters from previous mental health assessments;
- dates of important events, such as when symptoms started or any previous treatment.
Decide what you want to say
It’s common to go blank once the call starts. Spend ten minutes writing down:
- The main problem in a sentence or two, in your own words.
- How it affects you – work, relationships, sleep, eating, concentration.
- What you’ve tried and what did or didn’t help.
- What you’re hoping for – a diagnosis, a medication review, a second opinion, or simply understanding what’s going on.
- Your questions, so you don’t leave without asking them.
You don’t need to be articulate or tell your story in order. Psychiatrists are used to piecing things together; honesty matters far more than polish.
Set up your space
- Privacy first. Choose a room where you won’t be overheard. If home is busy, a parked car works surprisingly well.
- Light your face. Sit facing a window or lamp rather than with a bright light behind you.
- Steady the device. Prop your phone or tablet up rather than holding it, so you can talk naturally.
- Use headphones if you have them, for privacy and clearer sound.
- Charge up and plug in if you can. An initial assessment usually lasts about an hour.
During the call
Your psychiatrist will guide the conversation. Expect questions about your current symptoms, past mental and physical health, family history, alcohol and drug use, and your day-to-day life. They will also ask about safety, which is a routine part of every assessment and doesn’t mean they assume anything about you.
If the connection drops, rejoin using the same link. If you need a moment, say so – it’s fine to pause.
Afterwards
Jot down what was agreed while it’s fresh: the likely diagnosis, any medication and how to take it, and when your next appointment is. If you gave consent, a summary will be sent to your GP.
Ready to book? You can arrange an initial psychiatric assessment without a GP referral.
This article is general information, not personal medical advice. If you are worried about your mental health, speak to a doctor. In a crisis call 999 or NHS 111.
Ready to talk to a psychiatrist?
Book a secure video consultation with Happy Clinic. No referral needed, and appointments are often available within a few days.