The community mental health staff are there to help those that are currently suffering from mental health issues. The first port of call for anybody who thinks they are currently suffering from some type of mental health issue is. The community mental health team consists of several professionals that are trained in their areas and may include psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers, and of course CPN or the community nurse.

Some special problems or issues that can arise along with existing mental health problems or that can exacerbate or cause mental health problems and which may need Additional consideration include:

• Financial issues

• Physical disabilities

• Housing difficulties

• Divorce or relationship issues

• Childcare difficulties

Types of mental health Problems may result in various needs and might therefore require some expert help to manage and these could include:

• Elderly dementia and depression

• Child or depression

• Postnatal depression

• Bipolar disorder

• Schizophrenia

Finding one individual Qualified and skilled in each these areas just is not possible so the community mental health team work together to be able to ensure that the best information and support can be obtained as lots of the professionals involved will be trained in specialist areas that enable them to provide a better support to people experiencing specific issues.

 Who is very likely to participate in the community mental health team?

Psychiatrist

Patients may be referred to a psychologist by their physician. Following an initial assessment, the psychiatrist will recommend the right course of medication and therapy. If a mental health problem is severe they are able to recommend that the patient be detained in hospital for a time period. This needs the acceptance of another physician and a social worker who agree that this is the best choice for an individual worried for someone’s safety or for the protection of others and is a last resort.

Psychologist

Psychologists have an understanding of the mind works and human behavior and though they cannot prescribe medication they can provide various kinds of therapies. Patients may be referred to them by the doctor or other members of the community health team.

The Key Worker

People suffering from mental health Problems will be assigned a key employee, which can be anybody from the community mental health team. The key worker ensures that the person gets the right type of help they need. They report back to the rest of the group and will assess the development of someone.