A survey of professional help sought by patients for psychosocial problems

A sample of patients aged 25-75 years was drawn from one general practice. The patients were sent a postal questionnaire to ascertain whether they had had a personal or emotional problem in the last 10 years and whom they had confided in. Of the 396 respondents 281 (71%) admitted to having had such a problem. It was found that significantly more women then men had had a problem. Of these 281 individuals, 94% had confided in someone, mainly friends and relatives, 47% had consulted one or more professionals or agencies and 37% had confided in their general practitioner. Although the majority had found the contact with the agency or professional helpful, those with depression/anxiety or problems following a bereavement were less likely to feel that they had been helped. The provision of practical advice, sympathy and support were most often mentioned as being helpful. This study demonstrates the important role of the general practitioner in the management and treatment of psychosocial problems.