Can you see a psychiatrist through the NHS?
Yes, definitely. But unless things are really bad, you may not need to.
When you are concerned about your mental health there are a number of ways that you can get support first.
If you are not under the care of a mental health team
If the matter is not urgent the best person to speak to is your GP. GPs are specialists who have training in both physical and mental health. They prescribe certain medications and some surgeries even have mental health specialists and clinics. If they are not able to help with your concerns or are very worried about you – you may be referred to the community psychiatry team where you will be able to see a psychiatrist.
If you require immediate support and have concerns that you will harm yourself or others; call 999 or attend your nearest A+E. Here you will see a specialist psychiatry nurse or doctor who will be able to plan the next steps. This may include referral to a psychiatry team, planning a mental health admission or creating of a plan and handing over to your GP.
If you are already under the care of a mental health team
The first person to call should be your care co-ordinator. They are a trained professional who is aware of your history and will be able to point you in the right direction. They may be able to quickly arrange a solution to your concern. If you need to see a psychiatrist, they will arrange this for you.
You should have been given the number for your care co-ordinator. If you do not have this, you can call your CMHT base (Community Mental Health Team) and ask for the professional allocated to you.
If you are worried about yourself or others and need immediate support; you can call your local Crisis Line, call 999 or attend your local A+E where you will see a psychiatric nurse or doctor.
Summary
We have explained you can see a psychiatrist through the NHS. But you may not need to.
There are several ways to get support for your mental health.
Many professionals have specialist training in different areas of mental health and can help. If a Psychiatrist is needed they will arrange this for you.
We hope it has been helpful.
