Mental Healthcare

Mental health problems are common; about 25% of the population believe they suffer from some form of mental health problem at some point. Anyone suffering from a mental health problem can access the right treatment and most who do seek help will make a full recovery, but unfortunately, there are still people who are afraid to admit that they can’t cope or that they need help. They will suffer unnecessary psychological suffering due to a lack of understanding of their illness or awareness of what help is available. So what mental health services are available to anyone who suffers from mental illness?

Doctor

The first point of contact is your GP. They will be able to make a full assessment of your symptoms and your physical and mental health in general, as well as take into account all other factors involved, including any family history of mental illness, in order to provide an accurate diagnosis. because an accurate diagnosis is essential. If the right help and assistance are provided, For most people, a simple visit to the doctor may be all it takes to get them on the road to recovery.

However, your doctor may feel that you could also benefit from other mental health services, so once he or she has made a diagnosis, he or she can start you on an appropriate treatment programme that includes medication and/or referral to other professionals or specialists. If necessary, in the mental health team, e.g., social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, different types of counsellors or therapists, and so on.

The Community Mental Health Team (CMHT)

You may need specialist skills to help you manage your mental illness, and since one person cannot be an expert in every area, you could be referred to someone on the community mental health team. The community mental health team depends on the region you live in. Some are affiliated with a hospital or work out of a doctor’s office, and others may have their own clinic in a separate building, but usually they consist of professionals such as psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses who may also be trained to deal with specific problems or behaviors, clinical psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers, and various other therapists and counselors.

It is very likely that one person will be appointed as your main worker, who will be in regular contact with you and visit your home. This person may be a social worker, a nurse, some type of therapist, or, very often, a social psychiatric nurse, or CPN.

The CPN will regularly review your progress, identify and assist you in resolving any issues, and put you in touch with others who can help you. They will monitor your mediation and any effects of that medication, and will provide general support. They work closely with other professionals on the team so that everyone is aware of particular issues or challenges that need to be addressed. The CMHT will also regularly inform your doctor about your progress, your medication, and other matters related to your case.

You may need help from other professionals. For example, an occupational therapist can help you regain some independence in your life if you suffer from a disability, help you do things for yourself and increase your confidence in dressing, washing, and other practical skills. Social workers can help with many social issues, such as housing needs, financial difficulties, and perhaps parenting or childcare issues. Basically, the Community Mental Health Team allows you to access the right kind of help from professionals trained in a specific area.

Hospital

You may need to spend some time in the hospital to overcome a particularly difficult episode of mental illness or where it is deemed appropriate, but this decision is not taken lightly. Hospitals can provide safety and protection, and many people will voluntarily enter the hospital to get the right help and support. However, there are also mandatory admissions under the GGZ to protect the person himself or his environment. For some people, the thought of hospitalisation can be frightening, but it’s important to remember that a hospital stay can be life-saving and that hospitals are there to help and are better equipped to deal with particularly severe cases of mental illness.

More support

As such, family and friends can play an important role in helping someone with mental health problems make progress and regain control of their life and, as such, are an extremely important part of any support network. There are also many other agencies, support organizations, and charities that provide assistance to people with various mental health problems. Some will also address mental health issues by raising awareness in the community, and others will be able to provide information, advice, and support to people affected by mental health issues in their families. You can ask your doctor or mental health professional what other help is available in your area.