GP comments to mentally ill people

Snap out of it I can only help if you're suicidal

And 44% reported discrimination from their GPs - even though they are supposed to be the first point of call for help.

Nearly a fifth of people felt that they could not tell their GPs about their mental health problems.

Some also reported that GPs had attributed physical health problems to symptoms of mental illness.

Family problems

Many people had received unhelpful or damaging advice from relatives, such as "pull yourself together". Other sufferers said they were thought to be acting, or were considered stupid or unreliable.

Three-quarters of respondents said they would not disclose mental health problems on application forms for jobs for fear of discrimination. More than half would not tell their work colleagues.

If people are experiencing discrimination or are being told to 'Pull yourself together', then their chances of accessing good support are diminished

Ruth Lesirge, director, Mental Health Foundation

Ruth Lesirge, MHF director, said the report highlighted the stigma and discrimination faced by people with mental health problems, and also raised serious questions about the role of the GP.

She said: "It is the doctor who can ensure that you receive appropriate services and treatment. If people are experiencing discrimination or are being told to 'Pull yourself together', then their chances of accessing good support are diminished.

"With one in four of the UK population experiencing mental health problems in any one year, we have to change our attitudes and build on the good services and support that are available."

The MHF recommends:

• All GPs should have ongoing training to develop their understanding of mental health problems
• The new Disability Rights Commission should give priority to addressing discrimination in relation to people with mental health problems
• The Government and all agencies which promote mental health should join together to deliver a comprehensive anti-discrimination campaign