New health survey reveals concerns around mental health support

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP has today said that Scotland needs world-class mental health services after a new survey revealed people who received treatment or advice for a mental health reason rated their experience worse, compared to those who received treatment or advice for other reasons.

The Scottish Government's Health and Care Experience Survey 2023/24: Mental Health Analysis found that:

• People receiving treatment or advice for a mental health reason reported contacting their GP more often in the last year than any other patients.
• 16% of people who went to their GP for mental health advice or treatment had contacted their GP more than 10 times in the previous year.
• People who received treatment or advice for a mental health reason were less likely to rate their experience positively, compared with those who received treatment or advice for other reasons.

Mr Cole-Hamilton said:

“The Scottish Government's own report is showing that mental health care in this country is not good enough.

“The SNP have repeatedly raided tens of millions from the mental health budget, adding to the desperation of everyone trying to get help. When people cannot get the support they need, issues are more likely to spiral and place unnecessary pressure on other services like GPs and A&E departments.

“Scotland needs world-class mental health services, and that’s why my party has set out plans to tackle the continuing crisis. By delivering more support for staff and installing more mental health professionals close to where you live, we can make sure everyone gets the care they need fast.”