Too nervous to schedule doctor appointment

As someone with social anxiety, i know exaclty what you're going through. If there isn't anyone to book an appointment for you and you end up doing it, just remember:

-Try not to focus on any physical symptoms your anxiety may make you feel

-Anxiety is much less noticeable than you think

-Even if they do notice, it doesn't mean you'll be badly seen. We all experience it, you're not unusual.

-Just because you feel anxious, doesn't mean you're performing badly.

-You're not the center of attention. The receptionist will probably not care as much as you will about this call.

-Concentrate on the conversation going on, not on your performance.

-Don't replay parts of the conversation on your mind, just concentrate on what's being said at the moment.

-In 6 months time, you'll probably completely forget about this call. The receptionist? She'll probably forget about it a couple minutes after you called because you're gonna do just fine, just like anyone else ?

I used to have horrible social anxiety, still do but in different manifestations.  You need to ask yourself what is the worst thing that can happen if you do make that phone call, you might stutter? Someone might judge you? What are you really worried about? Then you need to remind yourself that it doesn't matter...even if you fall flat on your face in front of a group of people and make a fool out of yourself, what does it matter??? I know it is easier said than done but remember you are going to see the doctor to help you with your anxiety, even if you do stutter or feel stupid it is going to benefit you in the long run, and the doctor is there to help you.  The receptionist is just someone who is paid to answer the phone, she is a person just like you, who knows what she struggles with outside of doing her job.  I would try my hardest to keep your appointment and to find a therapist, maybe one that makes home visits at first until you feel more comfortable. Just remember you are in control of all of this, if you don't like the doctor you can find another one, if the medication doesn't work, you can try others.  Good luck to you

 

Hi, I often find it helpful if I write down in advance what it is I want to say and then I have it in front of me when I make the call. I often get aphasia which is a side affect of a stroke I had and some days I struggle to put 2 words together but it does not stop me from talking on the phone as I find it is easier than talking to a person. I just say word by word what I want . There are a lot of people who have a stammer or who stutter so the receptionist will be used to it and remember she can not see you on the other end of the phone and will have forgotten how you sounded by the time she takes the next call. Best of luck and I hope it all works out for you. Take care x

Try writing down what you need to say. I do this on a daily basis my thoughts and feelings so I can relay this back to doctor instead of rambling which don't make sence.