Yes, for mild to moderate anxiety and depression. A video consultation gives more time than a standard appointment, and much of what helps is the conversation rather than the prescription.
What we cover: what is actually going on and for how long, whether something physical is contributing — an underactive thyroid and anaemia both cause symptoms that look like depression — talking therapy options, and whether medication is appropriate.
Talking therapy is at least as effective as medication for mild to moderate symptoms, and NHS Talking Therapies takes self-referrals without going through a GP. That is free, and we will point you to it.
If we start an antidepressant, we will book a review. The first two weeks are frequently worse before better, side effects are commonest early, and people who are not warned about that stop in week two and conclude it did not work.
What needs more than us: psychosis, bipolar disorder, an eating disorder, severe depression, or anything needing a mental health team.
If you are having thoughts of ending your life, please do not wait for an appointment. Call 999 or go to A&E, call 111 and select the mental health option, or call Samaritans free on 116 123 at any hour.