A recent survey of over 2400 general practitioners and GPs in training by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has found that mental health conditions continue to be the most common reason that people see their GP. This finding is reinforced by supplementary data from major national bodies, including the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) and the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). 

GPs reported that the top three reasons for people coming to see them had shifted in recent times. While musculoskeletal problems such as back pain are still common, and women’s health consultations have increased – mental health is consistently leading, and many doctors are concerned about what it means for the future. The main mental health issues reported were anxiety and depression, followed by emotional or behavioural responses to stressful situations. Additional data sources suggest that substance use is a closely related concern that frequently co-occurs with other mental health conditions. 

Mental health challenges are inherently complex, often take root during adolescence, and can be amplified when substance use is involved. Addressing mental health, substance use and behavioural issues requires a comprehensive assessment of a person’s situation and needs. This highlights why another finding of the survey is important: a growing number of GPs see themselves as working within multidisciplinary teams which bring together various kinds of expertise.

Seeking help from a GP for early identification is crucial, as intervention delivered sooner in life consistently leads to better long-term outcomes. 

Online and telephone support and information are available from Beyond Blue and Lifeline on 13 11 14.