A study analyzing millions of patient visits to primary care physicians found that mental health concerns are the second most common reason for seeking care, with one in nine patients presenting with mental health issues. The data, collected from 2006 to 2019 in Norway, revealed that mental health encounters were as prevalent as respiratory and cardiovascular complaints. The study highlights the importance of integrating mental health services into primary care to address the complex and diverse mental health conditions seen by physicians. Recommendations include expanding mental health screening and services within primary care settings to better meet the needs of patients.
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