Frequently asked questions

At any time about one in four people experience symptoms of mental illness and one in four will experience mental health problems at some time.

If your GP or another health professional think you need more specialist help, they may refer you to one of our specialist mental health services.

Often this is because they will know more about the problems you are experiencing than your GP does, so it's easier for them to help you. Usually you will be referred to your local Community Mental Health Team or Recovery Support Team. These are based within your local community. Your GP will contact the team for you and explain the problems you are experiencing.

You will then get an appointment with the person or people you need to see. Being seen by a Community Mental Health Team or Recovery Support Team does not mean you'll have to go into hospital. Most people who are referred to these teams are cared for and treated at home or in the community, and with the right support, continue to lead active and fulfilling lives.

Most people can get all the help they need without coming into hospital. However, people sometimes need more intensive assessment or support or a safe environment.

If this is the case we may recommend that you come into hospital for a while. We will discuss this with you. We will explain why we think it is necessary and how long you might be in hospital.

If you do have to come into hospital, we will make sure you are given information about your rights and that you are only in hospital for as long as you need. Your friends and family can visit you and we will make sure they know of their rights too.

When you arrive on a ward you will be given a welcome pack which will give you and your family all the information you need to know.

Everyone's treatment is different and will be tailored to your indivdual needs.

Treatment in hospital usually involves some sort of medication. There should be information on your ward about the medication you are taking. You may also be given other non-drug treatments such as psychotherapy or occupational therapy. The nursing staff will also talk to you about your problems and help you to manage your thoughts and feelings.

You will have a named nurse who is responsible for you during your stay. You will also have a deputy for when your nurse is off duty. These can be good people to talk to if there are things you are concerned about.

While you're in hospital, you will be involved in putting together your care plan. This is where your care and treatment is written down. It will also name one person who will be your named professional or care coordinator.

The Mental Health Act (the Act) is the main piece of legislation guiding the compulsory inpatient admission and treatment of people with mental health problems in England and Wales.

At any one time around one in six people are experiencing symptoms of mental illness and one in four people will experience mental health problems at some time in their lives(Department of Health). The vast majority of these will be treated on an outpatient basis.

You might find that being taken to hospital against your will is stressful and upsetting. If you are detained under the Mental Health Act and wish to appeal, our staff will help you. The ward you are on will have a list of mental health solicitors who will be able to advise you.

In most cases, you can get free legal representation at your tribunal or managers’ hearing under the Legal Aid scheme. You may find it useful to get support from an Independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA).

Supporting someone with a mental health problem can be rewarding, but it can also be difficult and sometimes lonely. Having good information at the right time and knowing where to get help and support can make all the difference.

As a Trust we are committed to informing, involving and supporting carers, family members and friends as partners in the care of people using our services.

We are Gold Star members of the Carers’ Trust’s ‘Triangle of Care’ membership scheme that promotes shared working between carers, professionals and people using services.

Carers have the right to have their own needs assessed under the Care Act 2014. This is called a Carer’s Assessment.

The assessment looks at your needs to see what services could be provided to help you. The assessment will look at how caring affects your emotional and physical health, finances, work and relationships.

The assessment is your opportunity to sit down and explain what would make caring easier for you and what your own needs are. Services you may be offered include support to give you a break, emotional support, help with household tasks and help.