We, the undersigned, call for urgent reform in how GP practices in Northern Ireland handle mental health crises.

Too many people in desperate need are being turned away, ignored, or told to “call back tomorrow” — even when they openly say they are struggling with suicidal thoughts or severe depression. This system is failing people when they are at their most vulnerable.

A real story:
A patient recently went to their GP in crisis. At the reception, they explained they were struggling with their mental health. Instead of receiving help, they were told to call the next morning. Even when they insisted it was an emergency, they were dismissed and left feeling humiliated and invisible.

The patient later said:

“I was struggling, but no one listened. I left feeling ignored and invisible. Today I managed to clean my kitchen — a small thing, but it gave me hope. Still, no one should have to rely on their own strength when help is meant to be there.”
This is not an isolated incident — it happens far too often, and lives are at stake.

We demand:

Mental health treated as urgent: Reception staff must recognise crises and never dismiss someone in distress.
Walk-in crisis support: People in mental distress should never be told to “just call tomorrow.”
Clear mental health pathways: GP practices must provide immediate signposting to crisis teams, counselling, and same-day support.
Accountability: Practices should be reviewed to ensure patients are treated with dignity, compassion, and urgency.
Mental health emergencies are just as serious as a broken bone or chest pain. Every patient deserves timely help — lives depend on it.

Ps. This is NOT the full story people go through. I will add more here to make You understand how important it is.

Sign now to demand immediate change in Northern Ireland’s GP mental health system. No one in crisis should ever be turned away again.