Treatment

After a diagnosis has been made treatment can begin.

The psychiatrist may recommend psychological treatment and refer the patient to a trained therapist. An example could be a patient with mild to moderate symptoms of clinical depression. A therapist will often use a technique called Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT). The patient is usually seen weekly. The treatment sessions last 50 minutes. Usually treatment using this technique is completed after 12 sessions.

Sometimes patients have a degree of illness that warrants the use of medication, for example antidepressants. The psychiatrist will be able to discuss the mode of action of any medication recommended and possible side effects that could be encountered.

Occasionally patients need more intensive support. Day patient care and in-patient care can be organised when the psychiatrist and patient feel that it is appropriate to do so.

When treating people with mental health problems we approach it through a concept called Recovery. This means not simply focussing on managing the presenting symptoms. Instead we want to foster in people the hope that they can build up their own internal psychological strengths to allow them to live meaningful lives.