How do I access psychiatric help?

A good place to begin is to explain your problems to your General Practitioner. Be open and tell your doctor what you are feeling. They may then want to do an examination and conduct some tests. After completing their assessment your GP may recommend you have a specialist psychiatric assessment. Your GP can initiate this by writing a letter of referral to the specialist in psychiatry.

In some cases you may wish to approach the psychiatrist directly. The psychiatrist will request your permission for sharing relevant information with your GP or any other agencies involved in your care. Although you have a right to refuse this, allowing this sharing of information will often help get you the best level of care. You will discuss the issue of confidentiality with your psychiatrist at the earliest opportunity and certainly before the disclosure of any sensitive information.

The Initial Visit

When you visit the psychiatrist, the doctor will ask you questions about your current difficulties, background, family, occupation and general health and will also ask why you think you need treatment. The psychiatrist will discuss with you his initial diagnostic impression and outline of the treatment plan. You will be invited by your psychiatrist to work together to better understand and manage your condition.

If you self-refer your psychiatrist will ask your permission to liaise with your GP as many conditions require a collaborative working relationship, particularly when physical investigations and tests are required.

The psychiatrist will discuss with you if any follow up is required and if necessary will offer to liaise with other mental health professionals (nurses, psychologists, psychotherapists, occupational therapists) or physicians to help you with your recovery.

During your treatment episode the psychiatrist will advise you as to the adequate setting for the treatment of your condition. In the majority of cases this will take place as an out-patient but in some more severe cases in-patient or residential treatment will be recommended. Our doctors from Private Psychiatry London have admission rights to private psychiatric hospitals/clinics in London and Surrey and they will be able to remain in charge of your care during your in-patient treatment episode, which is the ideal option for continuity of care. However, should you wish to be admitted to a private facility where our doctors do not admit patients themselves they will be able to offer you independent advice and liaise with the care professionals at the treatment facility of your choice.