What World Mental Health Day Means to Me as a GP

As a General Practitioner (GP), World Mental Health Day holds profound significance. This day powerfully reminds us that mental wellbeing is an integral part of overall health and that there is no health without mental health. A survey by Mind stats that 40% of GP appointments involve Mental Health.

In my role, I see patients with mental health issues every day. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress affect my patients’ lives and can also exacerbate physical health problems. Many people still hesitate to talk about their mental health struggles, fearing judgment. That is why days like this are crucial—they give us a platform to encourage open dialogue, raise awareness, and challenge stigmas.

World Mental Health Day also highlights the importance of early intervention. At Teladoc Health, we actively check in on our patients’ mental wellbeing, offer resources and ensure they feel supported. Where appropriate, we refer patients directly to our Mental Health service so they can access our expert team quickly.

If we can promote awareness and understanding earlier, we can help more people before they reach breaking point.

Personal quotes from a selection of Teladoc Health GPs:

“World Mental Health Day as a GP to me means we are acknowledging mental health as a real health concern, just like any physical illness, and therefore, it’s important to increase awareness of how important it is to reach out to your GP and know there’s help there. It’s also important for us as professionals to look after our colleagues as we all too often don’t consider the impact of our job on our mental health.”

“Mental health issues have touched me personally. I will never forget the compassionate GP I spoke to when I first reached out for help. The initial consultation is so important as it has probably taken a lot of courage for the patient to come forward. We must continue to talk about mental health and raise awareness.”

“As a GP, World Mental Health Day highlights my role in promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma. It’s also a reminder for me to take care of my mental wellbeing so I can be of greater support to my patients.”

 

“World Mental Health Day” reminds me as a GP that mental health and well-being awareness needs to remain a priority for clinicians. Health professionals continue to play an important role in reducing stigma around this important issue by helping those who feel isolated and don’t know what to do or who go to, especially at the time of crisis in their lives.”

Watch Debs talk about GP consultations in this short video