Mental health problems are common and it is believed that around 25% of the population suffers from some type of mental health problem at any time. Anyone with a mental health problem can access the right treatment, and most who seek help will make a full recovery, but unfortunately, there are still people who are afraid to admit that they cannot cope or need help and will suffer unnecessary mental distress. due to a lack of understanding of your illness or knowledge of available help. So what mental health services are available to anyone with mental illness?


The first point of contact is your doctor. They will be able to make a complete assessment of your symptoms and your overall physical and mental health, as well as take into account any other factors involved, including a family history of mental illness, to make an accurate diagnosis because an accurate diagnosis is essential if the correct help and assistance. For most people, a simple visit to the doctor may be all that is required to put them on the road to recovery.

However, your doctor may feel that you may also benefit from other mental health services, so once he or she has made a diagnosis, they can begin an appropriate treatment program that may include medications and / or referral. other professionals or specialists. on the community mental health team as needed, for example social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, various types of counselors or therapists, etc.

The Community Mental Health Team (CMHT)

You may need specialized skills to help you cope with your mental illness, and since one person may not be an expert in all areas, you may be referred to someone on the community mental health team. Your community mental health team will vary depending on the area you live in, some may be assigned to a hospital or work for a doctor's surgery, and others may possibly have their own clinic in a separate building, but generally They consist of professionals such as psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses who may also be trained to treat specific problems or behaviors, clinical psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers, and various other therapists and counselors.

In all likelihood, someone will be designated as your key worker and will contact you regularly and visit you at home. This person could be a social worker, a nurse, some type of therapist, or quite often a community psychiatric nurse or NPC.

The CPN will review your progress on a regular basis, identify you and help you deal with any problems you may have and will put you in contact with others who can help you, will monitor your mediation and any effects of that medication and will generally offer support. They will work closely with other professionals on the team so everyone is aware of any particular issues or challenges that need to be addressed. The CMHT will also regularly inform your doctor of your progress, your medication and any other issues related to your case.

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

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