The RCGP is launching a GP-focused learning module on mental health in children and young people, in conjunction with the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.
The module – part of the MindEd initiative – is available on the ‘e-GP’ RCGP learning portal, and links through to two further modules on the MindEd website specifically designed for GPs wanting to get more in-depth knowledge.
The module uses case studies to explore mood and behavioural problems in young patients and the potential barriers young people face when seeking help, suggesting steps GPs can take to make it easier for patients to access help.
The launch of MindEd, which was funded by the Department of Health, comes as a survey of over 2,000 UK adults reveals that 87% would turn to a GP for help and advice if they had concerns about a child’s mental wellbeing.
The RCGP has called for a greater emphasis on training for GPs in mental health in children and young people and is making mental health its second ‘enduring priority’ from April.
