Every MP including the prime minister should have an annual mental-health check up, a psychologist has urged.
According to Dr Ashley Weinberg, a psychologist at Salford University, who has edited a book about the psychology of politicians, said he was concerned about the stress of being an MP.
"They have heavy workloads, not much social support and are frequently away from their families for long periods; it can take quite a toll," he said.
A doctor currently offers MPs health checks once every three years, with about 40% take-up but Weinberg says this should be more regular - and the public don't have to know.
"Whenever anyone holds high office they should be screened for their psychological and physical health.
"It should be behind the scenes but especially for someone in the job of a political leader it is important that regular checks are done, but not that the public know about it," he told the BBC.
Parliamentary medical worker Dr Fiona Alexander has previously raised concerns about the "stress and exhaustion" of MPs, saying they were suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
"There has been a change in my perception about the physiological and physical state of the people that I see," she said. "They are less well."
MPs' doctor Dr Ira Madan, MPs' doctor, has also warned the parliamentary expenses system is affecting the mental health of MPs.