ABSTRACT
Approximately one-third of all patients who consult their GP are likely to be seeking help for the emotional distress associated with a physical illness, or for what can be termed a ‘life problem’. Patients with emotional problems have been shown to attend their GP more frequently and show an increased demand for other medical services. In addition, studies have shown that patients with psychosocial problems are more likely to turn to a GP rather than the psychiatric or social services. In consequence, the majority of emotional problems experienced by patients are treated by GPs or by another member of the primary care team without referral to the mental health services. These details are documented in greater detail in Chapter 2.
