NHS tells GPs: Give patients mind experts

DOCTORS’ surgeries are being urged by NHS chiefs to employ mental health therapists.

The therapists would be able to focus on issues, including anxiety and depression, commonly found in those with long-term physical illnesses such as diabetes.

NHS England is encouraging GPs to bring mental and physical services under one roof, avoiding the need to travel for treatment that can put patients off seeking help.

It comes after a poll of more than 1,000 GPs by the charity Mind found two in five patient appointments now relate to mental health.