First appointment with mental health - what to expect?

[idontlikehaggis]

Have been struggling with depression for ages & finally went to the doctor last week. I didnt want to go on ad's but he said I would have to wait months for other help. Now I've had a letter from Community Mental Health Team with an appointment this week!
I'm scared & don't know what to expect.

its ok ive been there 3 times now !!
they will go through a history of your life an assesment to see how they can help you
right from when you were born school life relationships the birth of ur children etc i cried so much its untrue they are used to it and see it everyday
please dont be scared its all for the greater good.
let us know how you get on xxx

Hi, like candy saysit's just a chat. They should give you some copingstrategies andbreak down your worries into bite size chunks. I haven't had any medeither, just doing it with the counselling and lots of relaxation, and excercise. havea loom over on our anxiety thread. Me and Candy are always on there! xx

Think my keyboard keys are sticky today!

Hi, I'm a mental health social worker and work in a CMHT. We do these assessments every day and have access to all sorts of support not just anti depressants.Candyfluff is spot on in her reply.

Most teams would have an assessment document to go through which would cover your personal/family history,yours and your families mental health history, your current circumstances, housing/financial issues and any risk factors eg history of self harm. Don't be suprised if you are asked about drug/alcohol use and also some questions you may find a bit strange which are to see whether you have any symptoms of psychosis.
These are standard questions.

Whoever sees you should also explain about confidentiality.

Most importantly you should be asked what your views of your problems are and what help you think you may need.

I hope it goes well. Don't forget that the workers in CMHT's do loads of these assessments and want to help get you the best support. Best of luck and sorry the post is a bit long!

Thanks to you all - am feeling a bit less scared now. Will let you know how i get on later this week