Speak to a CQC-regulated GP from home and, where clinically appropriate, receive a private antidepressant prescription the same day. No long waits and no need to travel to a surgery.
Yes. A CQC-regulated private GP can assess your symptoms by secure video or phone call and, where it is clinically appropriate, issue a private antidepressant prescription online. The prescription is sent electronically to a UK pharmacy so you can collect or order delivery quickly. The process is legal, safe and follows the same clinical standards as an in-person GP appointment.
tapGP offers online mental health assessments with GMC-registered doctors who can discuss your symptoms, review your medical history and decide whether antidepressant medication is the right option for you. A prescription is only issued when the doctor considers it safe and appropriate to do so.
Our GPs carry out an individual assessment with every patient. The information below gives a general guide to suitability and does not replace a clinical decision.
You may be a good candidate for an online antidepressant consultation if any of the following apply.
An online GP consultation may not be the right route for everyone. Please consider the following.
There are several routes to accessing antidepressant medication or support for depression in the UK. This table outlines the main options to help you make an informed decision.
| Treatment option | What it may help with | Important notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online private GP (tapGP) | Assessment, diagnosis and private antidepressant prescription where clinically appropriate — often same day | Private prescription cost applies. See our online mental health assessments page for details. |
| NHS GP | Assessment and NHS-funded prescription for antidepressants | Waiting times vary. Some areas have long delays for routine appointments. |
| Talking therapies (CBT) | Mild to moderate depression and anxiety without medication | Available via NHS IAPT or privately. Often used alongside medication. |
| Psychiatrist referral | Complex or treatment-resistant depression, bipolar disorder or co-existing conditions | Required for specialist prescribing decisions. Can be arranged via your GP. |
| Urgent or crisis care | Immediate danger, feeling unsafe, suicidal thoughts or severe deterioration. | Call 999, go to A&E or call NHS 111 for urgent mental health help. |
Our simple three-step process is designed around you. Learn more about our mental health treatment pathway or complete the suitability check below to get started.
Answer a few short questions about your symptoms, medical history and any current medication. This takes around two minutes and helps us confirm that an online consultation is appropriate for you.
2-minute check
Your doctor will carry out a thorough assessment of your mental health, discuss your options and answer your questions. The consultation is confidential and conducted by secure video or phone call at a time that suits you.
Doctor-led assessment
If the doctor decides antidepressant medication is appropriate, a private prescription is sent electronically to a UK pharmacy of your choice. Your GP will also advise on follow-up care and any additional support that may help.
Safe ongoing caretapGP is authorised and regulated by the Care Quality Commission. Every antidepressant prescription is issued by a GMC-registered doctor following a full clinical assessment.
Find answers to the questions our patients ask most often. If your question is not covered here please contact our team before booking.
You do not have to wait weeks for support. Complete a short suitability check and book a confidential consultation with a GMC-registered doctor today. Find out more about our online mental health care page or start your check below.
Start 2-minute suitability check Private prescriptions are issued only where clinically appropriate.