How effective is GP consultation for depression?

A GP can ask about mood, loss of interest, sleep, appetite, concentration, energy and daily functioning. They may consider physical conditions, medicines, alcohol or drugs affecting mood. The discussion should include self-harm or suicide thoughts because this changes urgency. Options may include talking therapy, medication, self-care guidance or referral. Follow-up tracks progress rather than relying on one conversation.

Note changes in sleep, appetite, work, relationships and activities. Bring medicines and mention previous episodes, helpful treatments and side effects. Be direct about suicidal thoughts, self-harm, severe anxiety, agitation or unusually high energy with little sleep. Follow the plan and report worsening symptoms or difficult side effects.

Get urgent help if you may harm yourself, have made a plan, cannot stay safe, or have severe confusion, hallucinations or extreme agitation. Stay with someone trusted if possible. An immediate safety concern needs emergency services or an emergency department, not a routine appointment.

Ask which treatments fit your symptoms, when improvement will be reviewed, which side effects require contact, how to access therapy and who to call outside appointment hours.