We are delivering DeStress training to General Practices across diverse settings encompassing diverse poverty-affected populations and learning how to optimise its impact for patients and for GPs. We are undertaking the research across three Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) regions in England; South West Peninsula (PenARC); North Thames (ARC NT); and North West Coast (ARC NWC). After 18 months, all regions across England will be offered the optimised training resources.
The training aims to change consultation culture away from ‘quick fix’ antidepressant prescribing towards a more scientifically robust personalised bio-psycho-social approach to providing support. This approach aims to improve trust and engagement with low-income patients, fosters shared decision-making with patients around treatment and support (including social interventions to address mental distress), co-creates continuity in support, and recognises and seeks to build on personal strengths.