(Refused Access to the Royal Ed when I wanted to section myself)
(Refused follow up treatments to CBT etc)
The strain on services and waiting lists is an initial barrier as I believe most people access mental health services far too late in the progression of their illness.
The medical approach is in my opinion poor. Prescribing anti-depressants is a GP's first response where the mental health problem is still undiagnosed. In my experience this can be more harmful and I don't think the having a pill and be on your way attitude is just an appropriate response.
Also my experience of psychologists is a degree does not give you the right to go poking around in people's heads. Perhaps talking to someone with similar problems could be more practical or a combination? (More sympathetic approach as well than just someone trying to classify you).
A major barrier to people with mental problems is the feeling you're the only one as unfortunately people can't always relate to something they haven't experienced.
"Mental Health access and services "
About: NHS Lothian NHS Lothian Edinburgh EH16 4SA Royal Edinburgh Hospital / General Psychiatry Royal Edinburgh Hospital General Psychiatry EH10 5HF
Posted by Dr Feelgood (as ),
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