BACKGROUND: Psychological issues are common presentations in general practice. The COVID-19 pandemic has created a 'perfect storm' for the deterioration of mental health. General practitioners (GPs) are ideally placed to provide supports for people with mental health issues. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this article is to provide an overview of management approaches for mental health issues, paying attention to fostering resilience and lifestyle factors, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic period. DISCUSSION: While feelings of fear and anxiety are expected in these uncertain times, some people may experience an exacerbation of a mental illness or develop a mental health issue for the first time during the COVID-19 pandemic. A list of resources available to GPs is provided, and case studies are used to demonstrate how these resources can be used to support assessment and management during the COVID-19 pandemic.
General practitioner management of mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic