Terry hangs his washing up

Depression

United Response is committed to early intervention to stop more serious problems from occurring.

We have piloted work with some GPs at Primary Care level to support people who have newly been diagnosed with depression or anxiety. A skilled mental health support worker has been on hand in the GP practice to give practical advice to people about their illness and their medication.

This has meant that patients have had better knowledge of what depression is and what they might be able to use as coping strategies. It has also meant that those people have been able to ask questions about their medicine and any side effects. This has led to more people taking their medicine as well as seeking other types of support from the community.

There is evidence to suggest that this increases the likelihood of a shorter recovery time and decreases the likelihood of hospital admission.

Other benefits

The project has meant that for GPs their patients understand their diagnosis better. Feedback has shown that fewer people became more depressed following their diagnosis. GPs have been able to offer a better service to their patients.

For PCTs, this has meant less expenditure on medication due to the likelihood that patients have not felt as distressed by their diagnosis having had the opportunity to speak to the support worker.

We are looking to develop this further and would welcome any interest. Please contact the relevant divisional office if you are interested in discussing or commissioning this service in your area. Go to divisional contacts.