Psychiatric consultation
Mental health assessment and treatment plan
A psychiatric consultation is a doctor's assessment of complaints in areas such as emotions, thoughts, behaviour and sleep. The conversation covers when the complaints started, how they affect daily life, work and relationships, previous treatments, current medications and general health.
A psychiatric assessment can help in situations such as constant anxiety and worry, lack of motivation and being unable to enjoy anything, sleep problems, sudden attacks of intense fear, difficulty concentrating, struggling to cope with stress, or being unable to recover after a loss or a difficult event.
At the end of the assessment, the doctor shares the possible diagnosis and treatment options with you. Treatment is planned for the individual; if needed, medication is started and its effects and side effects are monitored through follow-up appointments. If considered necessary, a referral to psychotherapy or another specialty may be made.
Some physical illnesses and medications can cause mental health symptoms, and mental health problems can also show up as physical symptoms. For this reason, the doctor may request tests such as blood tests if considered necessary.
Bringing a list of all the medicines you take and any previous reports makes the assessment easier. What you share during the consultation is covered by doctor–patient confidentiality.
If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, do not wait for an appointment; call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.