Need Help
Doctors are notoriously bad at seeking help. We tend to be high achievers with high expectations of ourselves and a culture which values resilience and independence. For some of us, seeking advice and support does not come naturally, but it is a key part of professionalism and maintaining a healthy, enjoyable career. This page provides some ideas as to where to look for help when you need it. Your need may be simply for someone to talk over career or learning plans, or it may be something more serious. Whichever, the phrase "Doctor, heal thyself" is very bad advice.
GP Tutors
The GP Tutors are an excellent source of pastoral care and impartial advice. They are keen to help guide your learning, but have a wider role in providing support. A confidential ear outside your practice and immediate circle of friends can be very useful.
BMA
The BMA provides help and advice on a wide range of employment, partnership and management issues, but it also provides the BMA Counselling Service and Doctors Advisory Service tel: 08459 200169 and information and links to a wide range of resources, charities and support organizations at their Doctors' health and wellbeing website
Doctors' Support Network
The Doctors' Support Network (DSN) is a warm, friendly self-help group for doctors with mental health concerns. Tel: 0870 321 0 642 or call their peer support helpline: 0870 765 0001
Royal Medical Benevolent Fund
Depending on individual needs and circumstances, RMBF is able to provide grants, loans, information, advice, clothes parcels, payments to assist with domestic and financial crises or help with childcare and other costs.
Royal Medical Foundation
The Royal Medical Foundation, a medical benevolent charity assists UK medical practitioners and their dependants who find themselves in financial hardship.
Samaritans
Samaritans is available 24 hours a day to provide confidential emotional support for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which may lead to suicide.
