Accessing mental health support for GPs in Scotland

Recognising when you might need support

Working as a GP is rewarding, but high workloads and emotionally demanding work can affect your wellbeing. It can sometimes be difficult to recognise the signs of stress or burnout in yourself.

Common signs include:

• feeling constantly overwhelmed or exhausted
• losing interest in activities you usually enjoy
• feeling irritable or cynical about your work
• difficulty sleeping or concentrating

If you recognise these signs, please know that confidential help is available. Seeking support is a professional responsibility and helps you provide the best possible care for your patients.

Where to get confidential support

There are several free and independent services for doctors in Scotland. They are not connected to your employer or the GMC.

Confidential mental health services for doctors

These services are here to provide the support you need, whenever you need it.

• NHS Scotland Workforce Specialist Service (WSS)—Provides confidential mental health assessment and treatment for all regulated health staff in Scotland. It is a self-referral service run by a team that understands the pressures of healthcare work. Contact the NHS Scotland WSS on the National Wellbeing Hub.
• BMA Counselling and peer support—Alongside their 24/7 counselling line, the BMA runs a peer support service, connecting you with another doctor for confidential conversations. Discover more about the BMA’s counselling and peer support services.

Peer support networks

These groups allow you to share your experiences and find support from other doctors in a safe and structured environment.

• Doctors in Distress—UK-wide charity providing confidential, facilitated peer support groups in a safe and structured environment. Visit the Doctors in Distress website.
• Doctors Support Network (DSN)—A confidential peer support network for doctors and medical students, run by doctors with personal experience of mental health concerns. Find out more about DSN.

Community and professional networks

These organisations provide essential support, advocacy, and a sense of belonging.

• BAPIO (The British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin)—Supports doctors of Indian origin and other minority ethnic backgrounds. Learn more about BAPIO.
• The Disabled Doctors Network—A peer-led forum for doctors and students with experience of disability or chronic illness. Find out more about the Disabled Doctors Network.
• GLADD (The Association of LGBTQ+ Doctors and Dentists)—A support network for LGBTQ+ doctors, dentists, and students. Discover how GLADD can support you.
• Medical Women's Federation (MWF)—The largest body of women doctors in the UK, providing mentoring and networking.Find out more about the MWF.

Information and self-help resources

• RCGP GP Wellbeing Hub—A comprehensive online hub with resources, articles, and toolkits on improving wellbeing. Find out how the RCGP GP wellbeing hub can help you.
• NHS Inform 'Mind to Mind'—Scotland's national health information service, providing reliable information and self-help guides on mental wellbeing. View Mind to Mind resources on the NHS Inform website.
• National Wellbeing Hub—A directory to help you find local help and support. Find help and support in your local area.