How effective is GP consultation for generalised anxiety disorder?

Your GP may ask how long worry has been present, whether it is difficult to control, and how it affects sleep, concentration, work, relationships, and daily tasks. They may discuss physical symptoms such as muscle tension, restlessness, stomach upset, or a racing heartbeat. A conversation about mood, panic, alcohol, medicines, and other substances helps shape a safer assessment.

The GP may also consider physical conditions that can resemble or worsen anxiety. The consultation is not a test you pass or fail; it is a starting point for choosing practical support, talking therapy, medicine, or a combination based on your needs.

Write down the worries that occupy you, situations that intensify them, sleep changes, physical symptoms, and ways anxiety is limiting your routine. Bring a list of medicines and supplements. If speaking feels difficult, take notes or ask someone you trust to help you remember what you want to say.

Your GP can agree on a review plan and explain how a referral or talking therapy works. If medicine is discussed, ask about expected changes, common effects, interactions, and what to do if you want to stop it.

Seek urgent help if you may harm yourself, cannot stay safe, feel detached from reality, or anxiety comes with severe chest pain, collapse, or serious breathing difficulty. Contact emergency services when immediate danger is present, and tell the GP promptly about thoughts of self-harm even if you have no plan.

Ask whether your symptoms fit generalised anxiety disorder, what physical checks may be useful, which therapy options are available, how progress will be reviewed, and who to contact if your symptoms worsen.