Therapy & Support / Advice & next steps
When to speak to a GP about wellbeing
It is completely normal to feel nervous about speaking to a GP. Preparation can help you feel more confident and ensure that the most important information is shared clearly.
Quick answer
Speak to a GP when emotional or behavioural changes are persistent, worsening, causing significant distress, affecting sleep or daily functioning, or raising concerns about safety. A GP can consider physical and mental-health factors and explain current referral or support options.
What this means
Prepare specific examples, duration, impact and any relevant medication, sleep, pain, school or safeguarding information. Tell the GP about communication or sensory adjustments needed for the appointment. The GP may not resolve every education issue, so school support should continue alongside health assessment.
The goal is to provide a clear picture for the GP. They may ask about development history, school reports, or recent changes. Being clear about the outcome you hope to achieve will help the GP decide on the most appropriate next step.
Remember that clinical help is one piece of the puzzle. Schools, SENDIASS, and the Local Offer can often provide support for the educational or social aspects of the concern while health matters are addressed.
Questions to ask
What possible physical and mental-health factors need considering? • What should we do if symptoms worsen? • Who provides follow-up and how will school be involved?
Local Northamptonshire route
Use the child’s registered GP and current NHS pathways; do not rely on old waiting-time or referral information. Education support remains through school, with separate Local Offer and SENDIASS services in North and West Northamptonshire.
Free support and useful links
External free resource
West Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in West Northamptonshire.
External free resource
North Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in North Northamptonshire.
External free resource
Northamptonshire Local Offer
Local SEND information, services and support routes for children and young people.
External free resource
GOV.UK SEND information
Official information about special educational needs, EHC plans and support.
External free resource
IPSEA
Free SEND law information and resources for parents and carers.
External free resource
Council for Disabled Children
National resources and information about SEND support and policy.
Professional help is available if you need it
GP and NHS support are appropriate starting points. Private care is optional and should not delay urgent help. Check professional registration and how information will be shared with existing services.
What happens next?
Keep the agreed safety and follow-up plan. Contact the service again if symptoms worsen, risk changes or expected follow-up does not occur.
Support that may help
GP, School SENCO, SENDIASS.
Related guidance
SEND Lantern provides general information to help families understand possible next steps. It does not replace legal, medical or local authority advice.
Independent guidance for families
SEND Lantern is an independent guidance platform operated by SEND Lantern Ltd. We help families explore special educational needs and disabilities support, possible next steps and relevant services. SEND Lantern is not part of the NHS, a local authority, a school or any individual service provider. Information on this website is general guidance and should not be treated as medical, legal or educational advice.