Thanks for your question. When you go to your annual appointment, a lot of people expect to be asked questions about how they are physically feeling. For instance, you may be asked if you are having any pain. However, research shows there are many things that can affect your physical and mental health other than physical body concerns or symptoms. That is why health care providers take a “social history.” This includes questions about who you live with, school, things you like to do for fun, job(s), nutrition and exercise, relationships, sexual health, mental health, and safety. Often these questions will be asked confidentially to respect your privacy.​