Get a private GP assessment for depression from home, with same-day appointments available and a personalised treatment plan if clinically appropriate. No long waits and no referrals needed.
Yes. A private GP can assess, diagnose and treat depression via a secure video or phone consultation. During your appointment a doctor will review your symptoms, how long you have been experiencing them and how they are affecting daily life. If clinically appropriate, they can prescribe antidepressant medication, refer you for talking therapy or put a combination care plan in place — all without you needing to leave home.
tapGP is a CQC-regulated service offering online mental health assessments with UK-registered GPs. Appointments are available the same day or next day in most cases, and any prescription is sent electronically to a pharmacy of your choice.
An online assessment works well for many people with depression, but it is not suitable for everyone. Read the guidance below before booking.
Adults experiencing symptoms of depression who are medically stable and not in crisis may find an online GP appointment a helpful first step.
Please contact emergency services or your NHS GP urgently if any of the following apply to you.
There are several routes to support for depression. This table outlines what each option may help with so you can make an informed decision.
| Treatment option | What it may help with | Important notes |
|---|---|---|
| Private online GP (tapGP) | Assessment, diagnosis, antidepressant prescribing where appropriate and referral to therapy — all from home, often same day. | Suitable for mild to moderate depression in stable adults. Full assessment provided via online mental health assessments. |
| NHS GP | First-line assessment, antidepressants and referral to IAPT talking therapies on the NHS. | Waiting times for both appointments and therapy can be significant. A good option if you are not in urgent need. |
| Private talking therapy | CBT or other evidence-based psychological therapy for depression, either alone or alongside medication. | Recommended alongside or instead of medication for many people. A GP can advise on the most appropriate approach. |
| 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. |
tapGP makes it straightforward to access support. Learn more about our mental health treatment pathway or follow the three steps below.
Answer a few short questions about your symptoms and medical history. This takes around two minutes and helps us confirm that an online appointment is the right option for you.
2-minute check
Your doctor will carry out a thorough depression assessment using validated clinical tools. They will listen to your experience, explore your symptoms and discuss the most appropriate next steps with you.
Doctor-led assessment
Where clinically appropriate, your GP will issue a private prescription sent electronically to your chosen pharmacy. They may also refer you for therapy or arrange a follow-up to monitor your progress.
Safe ongoing caretapGP is a fully regulated private GP service. Here is what that means for your depression care.
We have answered the questions our patients ask most often about getting depression help online.
You do not have to wait weeks for support. tapGP connects you with a UK-registered GP for a private depression assessment, often the same day. Visit our online mental health care page to learn more or start your suitability check now.
Start 2-minute suitability check Private prescriptions are issued only where clinically appropriate.