GPs - What to expect from your doctor
A GP is a doctor that can give you treatment and care for your physical and mental health. This section explains how a GP decides what treatment and care to give you. And how to prepare for a GP appointment.
- GPs can provide treatment for mental health problems and offer long-term care and support.
- You can ask if there is a GP at your surgery who has an interest in mental health problems.
- It can help to write down a list of things you’d like to talk about with the GP. Such as symptoms or side-effects of medication.
- A GP will ask you about your mental and physical health and may make a diagnosis.
- A GP can refer you to a psychiatrist if they need to.
- You can change GPs as long as you are within their catchment area.
This section covers:
- How can I prepare for a GP appointment?
- What happens at an appointment?
- What happens next?
- What should I do if I have any problems?
- What if I am a carer, friend or relative?
- Other ways of getting help
These pages are created by Rethink Mental Illness' Advice Service in accordance with the Information Standard. Last reviewed in October 2016. Next review October 2019.
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