We spoke to Dr Amina Al-Yassin, one of our practicing GPs, to share some tips and advice for getting mental health support from your doctor.
“You probably know that doctors can help with all sorts of things, from infections to contraception, prescriptions to referrals. But did you know that they’re just as much there for your mental health as they are for your physical health?
"I’m a GP, which stands for General Practitioner. GPs are doctors who are trained to help patients of any age with any type of physical or mental health issue.
“Your GP can offer advice and refer you to other services that might help, like counselling, social prescribing, or CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services).”
As a GP I see lots of patients who want to talk about their mental health. We are really used to these conversations, we don’t find them embarrassing or awkward, and we usually have lots of ways to help.
Dr Amina Al-Yassin
GP
“I know that reaching out can sometimes feel difficult, so here are my top tips for getting the help you need:”
1. Remember that mental health is just as important as physical health
“Your GP won’t think it’s awkward or embarrassing to talk about mental health. They’ve most likely helped lots of young people with similar concerns before. They’re here to help, not to judge.”
2. You can book an appointment yourself
“You don’t always need an adult to book for you. You can call the surgery and some surgeries let you book online. If you feel your situation is urgent, let the receptionist know.”
3. Choose a GP you feel comfortable with
“Many doctor surgeries let you ask for a specific GP. You can check the practice website to see if someone has a special interest in young people’s mental health or ask the receptionist to recommend an extra friendly GP! If it’s an emergency you may need to see the next available GP, but if it isn’t there may be a bit more choice.”
4. You can ask to be seen on your own or you can bring someone with you if it helps
“You can ask to speak to the GP alone, or you can bring a family member or friend with you. Ask for whatever makes you feel more comfortable.
“You can also usually choose between a phone or face-to-face appointment.”
5. Write things down if talking feels hard
“If you're feeling nervous, jotting down your thoughts before your appointment can help. You can give the GP a note to read or even show them a message on your phone.”
6. Be honest about how you’re feeling
“Try to explain things as clearly as you can. But if you’re struggling, that’s okay, you could simply say, "I’m finding it hard to explain, but I just don’t feel right."
7. Give examples of how it’s affecting your life
“Giving examples can help your GP understand what you’re going through. You might say, "I’ve been finding it hard to concentrate at school," or "I don’t enjoy things I used to."”
8. Mention any physical symptoms
“Mental health issues can sometimes cause physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, tiredness, or other physical symptoms. Letting your GP know about these can be very helpful.”
9. Ask questions - it's your health, and you have choices
“If your GP suggests treatment, a referral, or medication, it’s okay to ask how it works, what the side effects might be, or if there are other options.
“You don’t have to decide on the spot, you can usually take time to think and get back to them.
“You can ask the GP to send you information by text or email to read through at home to help make your decision.”
10. Don’t be afraid to mention self-harm or suicidal thoughts
“If you’re struggling with these feelings, your GP will take you seriously. You won’t be in trouble, and it’s important that they know so they can offer the right support.”
You can find more advice and support by clicking the button below.
11. Follow up if you need to
“If things don’t improve or you feel like there’s more to say, book another appointment. GP appointments are usually short (around 10 minutes) and it’s common to need more time in another appointment. You can request to see the same GP again or ask for someone different.”
12. Remember, it’s confidential
“What you discuss with your GP is private. They will only share information if they think you're at serious risk and even then, they should talk to you about it first.”
I hope these tips help you to talk to your GP about your mental health! Remember, you are not alone and there are people, including your GP, who want to help.
Dr Amina Al-Yassin
GP
Mental health support for young people
Everyone has mental health and it’s something we should all take the time to look after. Sometimes our thoughts and feelings can feel difficult to manage. If you’re struggling with how you feel, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Help and advice is available for you.
How to access support
There are lots of types of support, so it’s all about finding out what’s going to be best for you. Understanding what and how to access this support, without all the big words, is a good place to start. We’ve got lots of information about this below.
Looking after yourself
Self-care looks different for everyone, but in its simplest form it means looking after yourself. The important thing with self-care is not what you do, but how it makes you feel.