GP not helping - where to go from here?

[ScarlettChaos]

I’ve been struggling with poor MH which has worsened considerably in the past few weeks. I’ve been seeing a private counsellor who thinks I need to see a GP about my MH as I’ve been SH and just feel like I’ve had enough.

Filled out an e-consult last week, got a phone call from receptionist next day who booked me a telephone appointment for 8 days later. I wanted an appointment sooner really but I appreciate GPs are busy. Have spent past week just trying to keep myself safe and distracted.

Was expecting phone appointment today but no phone call came - instead a I got a text saying look after yourself with a sick note attached (an identical sick note to one that was issued on Monday).

Where do I go from here? GP must think I don’t need any help or medication or anything. I’m not sure I can push back and try for another appointment, which may be yet another week a way. A week feels like such a long time when constantly plagued with dark thoughts. I’m trying to stay safe but it’s exhausting. Feels like a sign from the universe saying I’m not worth bothering with.

I'm sorry you are feeling like this. Call the GP and tell them you need an urgent appointment xx

I’m so sorry you are getting such terrible treatment by your GP. It is no reflection on your need, it is just because the NHS is in such a dire state.
You definitely are worth bothering with, please don’t give up.
As the PP said ring back and ask for an urgent GP appointment and make it clear how desperate you are feeling. Good luck xx

Did you put the SH on the e-consult? That's shocking they wouldn't even call you. Especially as you waited 8 days, so it's not like they squeezed you in last minute on the day.
Call them back and stress that you need a phone call at the very least. If you can, I'd recommended stating specifically that you are worried about keeping yourself safe.

Call 111 if you need to. And I think you should also be able to self refer to talking therapies.

I’m a GP. I think there has probably been a misunderstanding or miscommunication somewhere along the line - please call the surgery back, tell them you were expecting a consultation, tell them you’re having thoughts of self harm and ask for an urgent contact. This isn’t a sign that you don’t deserve help, you really really do.
I realise your GP will be shut now, if you don’t feel safe between now and when they open please call 111 or go to A+E, this does matter and you do deserve help. There’s also the Samaritans you can talk to or SHOUT https://giveusashout.org/ if you’d rather text

Take care of yourself, things can and will get better.

Yes, I mentioned the SH on the e-consult. The e-consult also made me fill out a questionnaire PHQ9 which I scored 26 on, and GAD7 questionnaire which I scored 16 on.
Logically a miscommunication/misunderstanding is the most likely explanation especially given the sick note. Though it feels more like a sign that I should just acknowledge I’ve reached the end.
I just can’t stop crying. My anxiety is through roof at the thought of having to phone the GP. I would do another e-consult as you don’t have to talk to anyone but I don’t think I can wait another week.
I can’t call Samaritans but I could maybe try the text one.

You poor thing, I can feel the distress in your post. I promise there is help out there for you. Is there anyone else you trust to talk to the GP for you? You could maybe fill in an e consult saying what you’ve said here and that you find it really hard to talk so you’re going to get someone to help you… then they can maybe call and say how hard it’s been and ask for someone to look at your e consult sooner rather than later?

Hang on in there x

Please follow this up with your GP. I'm dealing with the same and it's treated as an emergency each and every time I call. I'm fortunate that my GP is really kind and considerant.

The text Samaritan helpline has really helped me. Please use it, but expect to spend 90 mins online.

I'm working on de-escalation. My therapist has asked me to only self-harm once per day for now. It's hard, but I'm trying. I wish you all the best.

How about calling the mental health crisis line instead? Usually there’s a number to call and they’ll assess you and can get you the right service. Stay safe

Managed to speak to a GP this morning. They were very kind, prescribed medication and have referred me to the community mental health team. They’ve also booked me in for a blood test and said they’ll call me again next week.

That’s great news @ScarlettChaos. I’m so pleased you are getting the help you need and deserve. Well done for contacting the GP again.

I’m so pleased to hear it. This is how it should be. Hoping you feel better very soon, just take things day by day or even minute by minute for now