Depression in adults with a chronic physical health problem: recognition and management

Who will provide my treatment for depression?

Most people with depression are cared for by their GP, as are most people with a long-term physical health problem. Your GP might involve other healthcare professionals, such as a nurse or a mental health worker, in your care. If a hospital doctor is providing care for your physical health problem, they may also be involved in some aspects of your care for depression if they are experienced in treating mental health problems. If treatment and support from a specialist mental health service would help you, you could be referred to a psychiatrist, psychologist or mental health nurse. But people who have specialist care usually continue to receive care from their GP as well. Very occasionally people with depression need to be admitted to hospital.

If you are seeing a number of different healthcare professionals for the treatment of depression and your physical health problem, there should be a plan that identifies who is responsible for different aspects of your treatment and care. You should be given a copy of this 'care plan', as should your family or carers (if you agree).