Peter first experienced depression when he was a teenager but he did not seek help from a GP until he was at university. He was initially prescribed fluoxetine which wasn't entirely effective. After trying this for a while he self-referred to see a family friend who is a psychiatrist who recommended a change to venlafaxine, which he finds works well to alleviate depressive symptoms.

Pat was diagnosed with gout after some years of pain. She takes allopurinol and uses anti-inflammatories and painkillers to manage any attacks. She prefers to self-manage her condition but sees the GP for regular blood tests.

Dee was diagnosed with gout at the age of 40. She initially took preventative medication but now self-manages the condition, through a healthy lifestyle. She takes anti-inflammatories if necessary.