Talking about mental health with your primary care doctor is an important step in managing your overall well-being. At Summit Health, we understand that discussing your mental health may seem challenging – you may feel nervous or be unsure about how to start this discussion with your doctor. But rest assured, our care team is dedicated to guiding and supporting you every step of the way.

Daniela Accurso, MD, a family medicine physician at Summit Health offers advice for how you can have conversations about mental health. She also explains the different ways your primary care physician can help you on your journey towards health and wellness.

Why it's important to talk about mental health

Mental health is an important part of your overall health and should be treated with the same level of importance as physical health. Your primary care doctor is trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions. By engaging in open discussions about your mental well-being, you’ll receive personalized guidance, support and a tailored care plan to address both your physical and mental health.

“We are the first point of contact for all patients, and we are well trained in diagnosis and treatment of many mental health conditions,” explains Dr. Accurso. “Many times, patients are unable to connect to a specific mental health service or provider, whether it’s because there may be a long wait or because they don’t have access in their region. As a result, primary care doctors assume a leading role in the management of mental health illness.”

How to prepare for the conversation

You might feel more comfortable talking about your mental health if you prepare for the conversation. Dr. Accurso highlights the importance of open communication.

“It’s not easy for anyone to talk about their mental health,” she says,” so it is imperative that the patient and primary care doctor establish an honest and trusting relationship.”

Here are some tips to help you prepare:

• Take some time to think about how you’ve been feeling and any changes you’ve noticed in your mood or thinking. Write down any questions or concerns that you want to address.
• Consider bringing a trusted friend or family member for support. Their presence may offer you additional comfort.
• Prepare a brief history of your mental health, including any triggers, diagnoses, or treatments you’ve experienced. Sharing this information with your primary care doctor is valuable in helping them understand your journey and develop a plan to best support you.

Tips for talking to your primary care provider

• Be transparent and open. They are there to help, so it's important to be honest about how you're feeling. Share any symptoms you're experiencing, even if you're unsure if they're related to a mental health condition.
• Share background. Discuss information on your mental health background, such as when you first noticed symptoms and how they've been affecting your daily life.
• Ask questions and engage in conversation. Don't be afraid to ask questions about your mental health or treatment options.

Discuss treatment options

Your primary care doctor can discuss various treatment options with you, such as therapy, medication or lifestyle changes. Together, you can decide on the best approach for managing your mental health.

What to expect during the appointment

During your appointment, you will likely be asked questions about your symptoms, medical history and lifestyle. They may also perform a physical exam to rule out any underlying medical conditions and coordinate care to specialists for further evaluation.

Remember to follow up

After your conversation, schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss how you're doing and to make any changes to your treatment plan if needed.

Mental health: a common reason for primary care visits

Dr. Accurso explains that it is very common for primary care physicians to treat both depression and anxiety, amongst other mental health conditions. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians “approximately 40% of visits for mental health concerns occur in primary care offices.”

“There is a close relationship between us and the patient, and a certain degree of trust and openness which makes it easier for patients to speak to us about their mental health concerns. We also can closely follow patients and ensure that follow-up visits are in place before patients walk out the door,” she adds.

Dr. Accurso might refer patients for follow-up care. “We will involve specialists if we feel that the patient needs an extra level of isolated attention and support for their mental health problem after we have provided all the support that we can,” she says.

Summit Health provides a wide range of services for their patients seeking specific care and support for mental health. Our behavioral health department consists of board-certified psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists and social workers who provide support in all areas from mental health to substance abuse. Our pharmacists are also on hand to assist clinicians in medication management if there are questions about side effects, interactions or other potential complications related to medical treatment.

The benefits of seeking help

Seeking support from your primary care doctor offers many benefits, especially as we age. They’re familiar with your medical history, so they can understand how both your physical well-being and mental health connect.

“Your mental health is just as important as any of the physical health problems you may have. Make it a priority to discuss mental health concerns with your PCP. We are here to listen, support, and guide you,” says Dr. Accurso. “The more we know, and the more open patients are, the better we can medically treat you and give you the help you may need.”

It is important to remember that you are not alone, and help is available. If you want to discuss your mental health, make an appointment with a Summit Health primary care physician today.