Stress in general practice. How can GPs cope?

BACKGROUND

Excessive stress can cause both physical and psychological health problems in GPs, and can lead to decreased quality of patient care.

OBJECTIVE

This paper examines the range of coping strategies available to GPs and suggests several support mechanisms.

DISCUSSION

Coping strategies include talking to family and peers, problem solving and specific stress management techniques. GPs might need to be taught how to be patients themselves. Divisions can provide support groups for stressed GPs. The profession and government must consider how extra demands on general practice, coupled with further financial pressure, can lead to excessive strain.