Summary
Many general practitioners (GPs) in England believe that mental health issues are often over-diagnosed, turning normal life stress into medical conditions. They find it hard to get help for patients who truly need mental health support. The Health Secretary has called for a review to understand the increasing demand for mental health services and identify areas lacking support.
Key Facts
- A BBC survey of over 5,000 GPs in England found 442 out of 752 respondents think mental health problems are often over-diagnosed.
- GPs are concerned about normal life stresses being turned into medical problems.
- Many GPs find it difficult to get adequate support for patients with actual mental health conditions.
- One in five adults in England report a common mental health condition like anxiety or depression, with higher rates in 16-24 year olds.
- GPs identified 19-34 year olds as needing the most support for mental health issues.
- Nearly all surveyed GPs reported spending more time on mental health issues now than before.
- Practical issues like housing and finances also negatively affect mental health.
- The Health Secretary ordered a review to investigate rising mental health service demands and service gaps.
