Working as a doctor is demanding, and can be incredibly emotionally draining. Our mental health is more likely to suffer than in any other profession1. A recent survey by the Medical Protection Society revealed that 85% of doctors have experienced mental health issues2. Common problems were stress, anxiety and low self-esteem.

Here we list all the support groups specific to the medical profession that doctors can turn to in times of need.

Counselling/Mental Health services

BMA Counselling

A confidential, 24/7 telephone counselling service. Free of charge to all doctors and medical students

DocHealth

A new, confidential, not for profit, psychotherapeutic consultation service with senior clinicians. It is open to all doctors – they are located in London but also available nationally via Skype.

Doctor’s Support Network

A fully confidential, friendly, self-help group for doctors with mental health concerns.

Health for Health Professionals Wales  

A face to face counselling service for all doctors in Wales. It provides doctors with access to a BABCP accredited therapist in their area.

Occupational Mental Health Service (PHP HEE London)

Provides doctors and dentists working in the London Deanery area with emotional support and briefor longer term psychotherapy. Fully confidential

NHS Practitioner Health Programme

A free confidential service for doctors and dentists who have mental or physical health concerns, or addiction problems. Available nationally.

NHS GP Health service

Confidential mental health support for GPs and GP trainees.

Royal Colleges

Association of Anaesthetists – wellbeing and support

Royal College of Surgeons – peer support and signposts to other available resources

Royal College of Psychiatrists Support Service  – confidential support and advice telephone helpline for members or associates of the college.

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Addiction

British and Doctors and Dentists Group

A service for recovering alcoholic and drug dependent doctors, dentists and students

Sick Doctors Trust

Confidential 24/7 support and help for doctors, dentists and students concerned about their use of alcohol or drugs

For a comprehensive list of all support groups available to doctors, including a list of charities for financial hardship, visit the BMA here. https://www.bma.org.uk/advice/work-life-support/your-wellbeing/sources-of-support

References

• BMA. Doctors’ health matters. 2007. www.bma.org.uk/images/HealthMatters_tcm41-146805.pdf.
• https://www.medicalprotection.org/uk/articles/85-of-doctors-have-experienced-mental-health-issues-reveals-medical-protection-survey

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