# How should I prepare for my first mental health appointment?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/how-to-prepare-for-a-mental-health-appointment
For: Patients | Mental health care | Last reviewed 23 July 2026

**Answer:** Before your first appointment, jot down your main concerns, when they started and how they affect sleep, work, relationships and daily life. Note any medicines, alcohol or substance use, past treatment and physical health conditions, and write down questions about confidentiality, fees and next steps. You do not need a perfect explanation or complete records, as the provider should help structure the conversation. If there is immediate danger, do not wait for the appointment.

### What to note and bring

- A short timeline of symptoms and any changes in sleep, appetite, energy or daily functioning.
- Current medicines (a list or the containers), alcohol or substance use, and any previous treatment.
- Physical health conditions, major life events and the people who support you.
- Questions about confidentiality, diagnosis, treatment options, fees, cancellations and follow-up.

### What happens in the first session

The provider will usually ask about your concerns, history, daily life, physical health and safety, and should explain confidentiality and their role. You can ask why a question is relevant, and you may be able to bring a trusted person, depending on consent and clinic policy. The first visit may not end with a final diagnosis, but it should end with a clear plan for next steps.

> **Important:** Do not wait for a scheduled appointment when there is immediate danger, suicidal intent or inability to stay safe.

> **Important:** If there is immediate danger or a medical emergency, contact emergency services now. In Kenya, call 999, 112 or 911. Outside Kenya, use the emergency number for your location.

## Related questions

- [Are psychiatric medicines addictive?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/are-psychiatric-medicines-addictive)
- [Can adults have ADHD, and how is it diagnosed?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/can-adults-have-adhd-and-how-is-it-diagnosed)
- [Can alcohol, cannabis or other drugs cause mental health problems?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/can-alcohol-cannabis-or-other-drugs-cause-mental-health-problems)

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**About Tymira Health:** Tymira Health is a healthcare technology company based in Nairobi, Kenya. It builds Tymira360, a practice management and EHR platform for mental health, physiotherapy and dental providers, clinics, hospitals, NGOs and insurers across Africa.

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