Frequently Asked Questions

When someone’s mental health suffers, it has a resounding effect on not only the sufferer but their family and friends. It is important to know that there is help out there and the quicker it is sought, the better the outcome. We hope some of the frequently asked questions below help.

I am worried a member of my family has mental health issues. What should I do?

The first step is to talk to your GP. He can prescribe medication that may alleviate any symptoms. He can also refer the patient to the Community Mental Health Team (CMHT). Each town has such a team – ask your GP for details or check out your Borough’s website through using the links below:

Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead
Slough Borough
Bracknell Forest Borough

You can ask for a psychiatric assessment which is done by a psychiatrist probably based at the local hospital. Depending on their assessment, they will work out the best form of treatment. They will work with the GP and the CMHT to devise a Care Plan Approach (CPA). Nowadays the emphasis is on home treatment rather than hospitalisation.

I have been prescribed a drug I know nothing about.

All medication has a leaflet inside; it is worth reading this when you pick up your prescription. Alternatively, go to Minds website to get the lowdown on your medication.

I have been taking my medication for a couple of weeks and don’t feel any different.

Remember it takes time for medication to kick in. You have to give it time. (Your prescribing doctor can give you an indication of when you should start seeing an improvement) It is also important to take your prescribed medication regularly and not to give up without talking to your GP first.

I have got some unwelcome side effects of my medication.

Unfortunately this can happen with any kind of medication. If it is severe, then you GP can try an alternative. If it is something you can live with, then the benefits of taking the medication will outweigh the negatives.

What other services can I access while I feel too ill to work?

There are day centres for people with mental health issues where you can drop in and talk to staff and other service users. They can help you with your confidence building and self esteem. Day centres also offer a range of activities such as silversmithing, art, yoga and alternative therapies.

What if I need support or to call someone out of regular hours?

The Crisis Response Team provides an out-of-hours community mental health service for those people in crisis. The team operates throughout East Berkshire. The service aims to prevent unnecessary admissions to hospital by supporting people in their home. The team responds to client contact by travelling to the clients own home.

Forest Care Centre
Central Depot
Old Bracknell Lane West
Bracknell
RG12 7QT

Tel: 01344 786543
Fax: 01344 786535