Screening is a conversation starter
Questionnaires like PHQ-9 (depression) and GAD-7 (anxiety) are not diagnoses—they help quantify symptoms, track response to treatment, and open discussion about safety, substance use, and trauma.
Why primary care
Most people with depression or anxiety never see a psychiatrist; family doctors provide most treatment. Integrated care means we can also review thyroid function, anemia, sleep apnea mimics, and medication side effects.
Therapy and medications
Cognitive behavioral therapy is first-line for many anxiety disorders. Antidepressants can help moderate-to-severe symptoms or when therapy access is limited—expect weeks for full effect and early follow-up for side effects.
Safety first
If you have thoughts of self-harm, tell someone today. In Canada, call or text 988 for suicide crisis support; immediate danger requires 911 or your nearest emergency department. CAMH publishes additional resources.
Stigma still hurts
Asking for help is a strength. Bring a support person to visits if you like, and write down questions beforehand.
Follow-up matters
Mental health treatment works best with scheduled check-ins—not “call if worse.” Book the next visit before you leave.
Written by Dr. Payman Shahabi
Head of Family Medicine
Dr. Payman Shahabi, MD, PhD, CCFP, leads family medicine at Trita. He is a family physician and hospitalist, faculty in the Department of Family Medicine at McGill University, with a PhD in personalized medicine and pharmacogenetics and residency training at Université Laval. His practice emphasizes continuity, prevention, and evidence-based care.
