GPs predict ‘huge surge’ in patients with PTSD

GPs are adapting the techniques they use to diagnose and care for veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in readiness for a ‘huge surge’ in patients with the condition as a result of coronavirus.

Previous pandemics including SARS and Swine flu have resulted in an increase in stress symptoms, incidence of PTSD, depression and adjustment disorders within communities. During the current lockdown, GPs are already anecdotally reporting a rise in the number of patients with anxiety, depression and trauma symptoms, particularly in those who have pre-existing physical and mental health conditions – and they predict that this will escalate rapidly as lockdown restrictions are lifted and patients try to deal with their experiences.

The Royal College of GPs has reworked its learning materials - initially developed to help GP practices provide targeted support to military veterans returning from war zones and trying to adjust to civilian life – to create specific resources for family doctors helping their patients come to terms with the pandemic and its aftermath.

PTSD during and after lockdown includes vlogs, screencasts and a PTSD screening test. One section deals specifically with the unique mental health needs of key workers, particularly health and social care professionals who have been on the frontline of the NHS and other public services during the pandemic.

Martin Marshall, chair of the RCGP, said: “We are already seeing the huge toll that this pandemic is taking on people’s health, mentally as well as physically, but we also know that a significant number of patients have chosen not to use the NHS during the pandemic, perhaps for fear of getting the virus, or because they don’t want to burden the health service during a time of crisis and emergency.

“This will inevitably create a huge surge in mental health conditions, including cases of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. It is crucial that GPs and their teams have as much support as possible to help them pick up the pieces and care for their patients in a post-Covid world, with all it will bring.”