Aftercare

You usually need to continue taking your medication to prevent your depression from returning. You may also need long term treatment.

Where to next?

Your GP or psychiatrist may be all the ongoing care you need.

Community based mental health services:

These services encompass a comprehensive multi-disciplinary team. This service aims to support people with mental health issues in the community and maintain their independence. Community Mental Health Services are provided free of charge. Services are provided via home visits or from their individual facilities.

Outpatient clinics:

If you have been in hospital, you may be offered after-care at an outpatient clinic where you will see a doctor from the psychiatric unit. This is similar to going to your own doctor, but a psychiatrist who specialises in treating psychiatric disorders will care for you.

Community Mental Health Centers:

Most psychiatric units work very closely with Community Mental Health Centers. These are centres for patients with chronic mental disorders who may have spent time in hospital. A Community Mental Health Center is similar to an outpatient clinic, but may offer more services and also work closely with the psychiatric unit.