People’s Experiences of Accessing & Talking to Bury GP’s About Their Mental Health

Summary

We received 118 survey responses and met with 8 mental health groups. From the survey results 81% of respondents had approached their GP about their mental health concerns in the last 12-18 months, with just under 60% seeking help within 3 months of becoming concerned and 17% waiting for over a year before seeking help.

Prior going to their GP the survey results showed that service users managed their condition in multiple ways through the help of family and friends, self-diagnosis, selfmedication, on-line advice and via local charities/groups. However, some people chose to ignore their condition reaching crisis point before seeking help. Feedback indicated the lack of crisis care support and advice, as being a major area of concern for service users.