Have you ever discussed your relationship when visiting your GP? One in four patients answers yes to this question, and over 75% find the conversation helpful.
My research shows that relationship issues are rarely the main reason patients see their GP, but the topic often arises when the GP takes a holistic approach to the patient’s concerns. I am particularly interested in this kind of integrative thinking, where biological, psychological, and relational factors are considered together, both in research and in clinical practice. A central focus of my work is relational health. Supportive and secure relationships can protect against illness and enhance quality of life, while strained relationships, breakups, and loneliness are associated with increased health risks.
I am a researcher at the General Practice Research Unit (AFE) at NORCE, and also a specialist in Family Medicine (MD) working as a GP in Arendal, a couples therapist, and passionate about communicating knowledge on relationships and health. I am the author of two books on the topic: Bruksanvisning for parforholdet (A User Manual for Relationships) and Bruksanvisning for hverdagssexen (A User Manual for Everyday Sex), and co-host of the podcast Fastlegetimen (The GP appointment). I also contributed the chapter on "Family, relationships, and health" in the Norwegian textbook Allmennmedisin (Family Medicine). I regularly give talks for both professionals and others, and I am frequently invited as as expert in media, including Debatten (NRK), God morgen Norge (TV2), VG, and Aftenposten Riks.
Close relations influence both mental and physical health, and are therefore a vital field of research. I currently lead a cross-sectional study among patients in general practice, exploring associations between close relations, health, and sick leave. We examine, among other things, to what extent patients perceive relational difficulties as a contributing factor to their sick leave, and the prevalence of loneliness and stressful relationships in this population.
I also lead a pilot study testing a model for structured annual check-ups for frail elderly patients in general practice. These patients are often less visible in the GP clinic, but have complex needs and polypharmacy. The goal is to assess whether more systematic follow-up can lead to better, more person-centred care and improved collaboration between GPs and other primary care services.
Postpartum mental health is another area of my reserach. One in five women experience mental health challenges in the first year after giving birth, with vulnerable groups being especially at risk. I lead two work packages in a project that maps current services and follow-up for these women and their close supporters. This knowledge will form the basis for developing and testing a more integrated care model within the Norwegian healthcare system.
