General Practice Mental Health Practitioners
General Practice Mental Health Practitioners are part of the multi-disciplinary (MDT) team within a GP practice.
They work with patients to help improve mental health and wellbeing through early intervention, prevention and management of mental health issues, using a range of approaches to achieve this.
Good mental health is just as important as good physical health. One in four people in Northern Ireland will experience problems that negatively affect their mental health. While the things which affect mental health can be very complex, there are many things that can be done to help support mental wellbeing.
The mental health practitioner can provide a patient with the tools and appropriate support that will enable them to improve and maintain good mental health and wellbeing.
The mental health practitioner is an expert who can:
- Provide an initial assessment
- Advise on management of mental health
- Offer short term treatment
- Direct a patient to appropriate services
- Refer a patient to specialist mental health services
Who is this service for?
This service is for patients who are concerned about their mental health and wellbeing.
Examples include:
- Stress
- Coping with bereavement
- Addiction issues (alchohol/drug/gambling etc)
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
- Panic attacks
- Excessive worrying or negative thoughts
How do I make an appointment?
This MDT service is currently only available in the Derry/Londonderry, Causeway, Newry & District, West Belfast, Down, Ards & North Down areas. Please contact your GP Practice within these areas to book an appointment.