Young adults' perceptions of GPs as a help source for mental distress: a qualitative study.
BACKGROUND
Few young adults with mental disorder seek help from a GP.


OBJECTIVE
To explore young adults' perceptions of GPs as a source of help for mental distress.


METHODS
Qualitative interviews.


METHODS
Bristol and surrounding areas, UK.


METHODS
Males and females aged 16-24 years screened as 'cases' with probable mental disorder (GHQ [General Health Questionnaire]-12 score> or =4) or describing past episodes of mental disorder (n = 23) were sampled purposively according to help-seeking behaviour. Semi-structured interviews explored help-seeking choices. Transcripts were analysed using thematic, constant comparison and case study analysis.


RESULTS
Most young adults did not value or recognise GPs as a source of help for mental disorder or distress. They thought that GPs deal exclusively with physical illness, lack training in mental health, are unable to provide 'talking' therapy, and may be dismissive of those consulting with mental distress. A prescription for antidepressants was seen as the most likely outcome of a consultation, but young adults wished to avoid this and so rarely consulted. Encounters with GPs could challenge or reinforce these perceptions.


CONCLUSIONS
Negative perceptions about the value of consulting a GP for mental distress may explain low rates of help-seeking among young adults, including those with severe distress. Young people require a better understanding of GPs' role. It is also necessary to address evidence reported elsewhere that some GPs also experience uncertainties about what they can offer within the constraints of primary care.
Biddle
Lucy
L
Department of Social Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK. lucy.biddle@bristol.ac.uk
Donovan
Jenny L
JL
Gunnell
David
D
Sharp
Debbie
D
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001294:Attitude to Health; D005194:Family Practice; D005260:Female; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology*; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012938:Social Perception; D013240:Stereotyping; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires