CAMHS in the UK

[5littlegreenfrogs]

I got referred to CAMHS (children and adolescents mental health services) before Christmas and I'm still waiting for to hear back off them. I was wondering if anyone had any advice apon going to the appointment and any idea what to expect?

I got referred there because I told my GP about my self harm and mood swings.

[ParanormalChickenGeek]

Hey, I'm glad to hear that you were able to open up to your GP and get a referral, that's a great first step.
I work for CAMHS in the UK, and sadly they are inundated with referrals so understandably it sometimes takes a while for the first appointment to come through. Do you know which CAMHS service you've been referred to? If so, you could ring them and chase it up.
With regards to what will happen when they do give you an appointment - your first appointment will likely be with a psychiatrist to assess your current symptoms and risk. They will then reccomend treatment I.e. Medication, CBT, counselling, home treatment team, inpatient services etc.
Good luck with it all, I hope you get an appointment very soon.

[5littlegreenfrogs]

Its in Liverpool in Alder hey hospital I think. Thanks for you help :)

[Buttons.]

From what I hear that CAMHS is very good. Back in the day when I was under CAMHS they were very relaxed in the first appointment, just gently asked me questions that I could answer if I wanted, and it was fine if I didn't. I know it's easier said than done but I'd try to not worry about it too much. They're just here to help :)

[Epicene]

Like the others said, a lot of the initial appointments will be about assessing how you are and what they can provide you with in terms of support. It can feel quite overwhelming, as they will ask a lot of questions, but it's just so they can understand you difficulties as best as possible. The most important thing is to be honest and to ask the staff any questions you may have.