GPs Report Significant Rise in Mental Health Certificates for Workplace Issues
A recent newsGP poll reveals that 82% of General Practitioners (GPs) have observed a significant increase over the past two years in patients seeking medical certificates for depression, stress, or anxiety related to workplace issues. This growing trend is attributed to a combination of factors, including existing health system challenges, a shortage of mental health services, and heightened public awareness of mental health conditions.
"The healthcare system's strain significantly impacts GPs, who manage a growing number of mental health presentations." – Dr. Karen Spielman, Chair of RACGP Specific Interests Psychological Medicine.
She also notes a general rise in depression and anxiety within the wider community.
Community-Wide Mental Health Challenges
The findings align with the RACGP's 2025 Health of the Nation report, which identified mental health as the primary reason for 71% of patient visits to general practices—an increase of 10% since 2017. Anxiety, depression, and stress were the leading conditions reported.
Increased public awareness of anxiety and depression may also contribute to the rise in GP consultations, with more individuals seeking help, even if a clinical diagnosis does not always follow.
Workplace Stress Intensifies
Fair Work Commission data supports the notion of increased workplace distress, showing a 27% rise in worker lodgements for the 2023–24 financial year, reaching 40,190. This marks the highest figure since 2010.
"Dr. Spielman suggested that workplaces may be contributing to the issue due to increased financial distress and employment insecurity, leading to more presentations to GPs and a rise in presenteeism (working while unwell)."
GPs: A Crucial Frontline for Support
Patient experiences, like that of "Charlotte," highlight the crucial role GPs play in providing comprehensive support. This includes developing health plans, issuing referrals to psychologists, prescribing treatments, and assisting with sickness benefits, often extending beyond standard consultation times.
Recommendations for Alleviating Mental Health Strain
To address the growing problem, Dr. Spielman recommends that GPs utilize tools such as The Healthy Mind Platter for managing psychological distress.
She also advocates for workplaces to implement simple yet impactful measures. These include allowing employees to take one or two days off without requiring a medical certificate and facilitating time off for medical appointments, aiming to alleviate mental health stress and reduce pressure on the GP workforce.