Public health
Reducing inequalities in mental health outcomes through targeted non-pharmaceutical interventions
A systematic review of non-pharmaceutical primary care interventions for common mental health disorders identified 13 studies for inclusion (10 evaluated social prescribing interventions, 2 collaborative care and one a new model of care).
Wellbeing improved in groups that were socioeconomically deprived.
Inconsistent, mainly positive effects were reported for anxiety and depression.
One study reported that the least deprived population benefitted most from these interventions.
WiseGP actions:
Have you considered targeting the work of your social prescribers towards the most deprived populations in your practice?
Have a look at this WiseGP blog which shares the innovative work of a GP and their wider team in Slough, gathering data on the socioeconomic needs of their population to support interventions to improve their health and wellbeing. https://www.wisegp.co.uk/post/tackling-health-inequalities
Read more about the evidence informing this GEM here:
https://bjgp.org/content/73/729/e242
Getting our patients to be more active
Inactivity is linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and poor mental health. We need to focus on motivating inactive patients to get moving. Parkrun has been an effective way to promote activity, with the community aspect and social connections made being particularly valued by slower runners and walkers.
WiseGP actions:
1. The RCGP set up the parkrun practice initiative to link GP surgeries with their local parkrun. Why not consider signing up your practice if you’re not already involved?
2. Invite your staff to join you in travelling to work by walking or cycling for a week and share your activity on your practice social media accounts to set an example to your community, improve the wellbeing of your practice staff and help the environment.
Read more about the evidence informing these suggestions here:
https://bjgp.org/content/72/722/414
