Mental health services are provided in many different ways by a range of agencies. This can make it very difficult to find 'the right path' because you probably won't know what helps until you've tried it. This makes it extremely important to have enough accurate information to be able to make an informed choice.
The majority of support is now offered “in the community”. This means that people live at home and make use of a range of services, some of which might be provided in their own home.
There are several points where you could first go into the mental health system.
The majority of people who want help while experiencing some kind of emotional distress go first to their GP. What happens next depends on the:
Your GP may prescribe treatment, or offer you ideas and support on self-help, or may refer you to any one of a number of services, including:
If you are in a crisis you may go there. You are likely to be referred to the Crisis Resolution Team.
Can refer you to other services, as well as give you help and support themselves.
You may go to an independent organisation, perhaps for counselling, or housing support. They will help you find more specialised support if you need it.
If you're in mental distress and you go to the Police, are reported to them, or they pick you up, you are likely to be referred to the Crisis Resolution Team, if appropriate.