Treatments and Supports - Support in the Community

Many of Scotland's mental hospitals have been closed or reduced in size and most people now receive treatment for their Mental Health Problems:
Mental Health Problems arise when a problem, life event or situation, disrupts the way we think and feel. This can either be temporary – for example, following a bereavement – or be more enduring. Mental health problems can include suffering stress, constant worrying…
moremental health problems without becoming in-patients.

Care in the Community / Community Care

People with Mental Health Problems:
Mental Health Problems arise when a problem, life event or situation, disrupts the way we think and feel. This can either be temporary – for example, following a bereavement – or be more enduring. Mental health problems can include suffering stress, constant worrying…
moremental health problems can continue to lead independent lives and live in their own accommodation. They are helped by a range of professionals working together in what are often known as Community Mental Health Teams (see below). Support received from family, friends, employers and work colleagues is also very important. Voluntary organisations also provide valuable help and support to people living in the community.

Community Mental Health Teams

Community Mental Health Teams look after the welfare of people who need more attention for their Mental Health Problems:
Mental Health Problems arise when a problem, life event or situation, disrupts the way we think and feel. This can either be temporary – for example, following a bereavement – or be more enduring. Mental health problems can include suffering stress, constant worrying…
moremental health problems than a GP can provide. The make-up of care teams varies from area to area and according to the needs of the individual. Teams can include Psychiatrists:
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who are specialists in mental health. They make diagnoses, decisions about treatment and care, and prescribe psychiatric drugs. Increasingly, psychiatrists are encouraged to work in conjunction with other agencies, such as social work and voluntary organisations, which have an interest in the well-being of the person.
morepsychiatrists, Psychologists:
Psychologists are experts in human behaviour. They can help to work through the way people act in certain situations (behavioural therapy). They can also help people to work through the way they think in certain situations (cognitive therapy).
morepsychologists, Community Psychiatric Nurse (CPN):
CPN's are registered psychiatric nurses who work in the community to provide care for people with mental health problems. They can help in a number of ways including by giving practical advice, supportive counselling, giving injections and supervising medication.
moreCommunity Psychiatric Nurses, public health nurses (health visitors) and housing and welfare officers, as well as workers form voluntary sector organisations.