Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments are crucial in providing immediate care for life-threatening and severe medical emergencies, including urgent mental health crises. They are equipped to offer rapid assessment, treatment, and stabilization to safeguard your health and well-being during critical times.

When to go?

It's crucial to recognize when to seek urgent help at A&E. This is especially vital if you find yourself in a situation where you're at risk of harming yourself or others, contemplating suicide, or if you've already engaged in severe self harm. A&E departments are equipped to provide the immediate and specialized care needed to navigate through these critical moments safely.

How They Help?

In the event of a mental health emergency, many A&E departments are supported by specialised mental health teams, often referred to as liaison psychiatry teams. These teams work closely with A&E staff to provide comprehensive care. In cases where a specialised team is not on-site, A&E personnel will coordinate with local mental health crisis teams to ensure you receive the necessary assessment and support.

From these dedicated professionals, you can expect:

• An immediate mental health evaluation to understand your needs.
• Implementation of short-term safety measures to protect your well-being.
• Appropriate medication, if needed, to alleviate acute symptoms.
• Referrals to additional crisis services or local mental health teams for ongoing support.
• A careful assessment to decide the next steps, whether it's hospital admission for further care or guidance on safely returning home.

Getting Ready To Go

When facing a mental health emergency that necessitates a visit to Accident and Emergency (A&E), a little preparation can significantly ease the process. Here are some steps and items to consider before your visit:

• Essential Documents: Bring any relevant medical documents, including a list of current medications, dosages, and any known allergies. Also, include contact information for your General Practitioner (GP) and any mental health professionals you're currently seeing. This information can be crucial for the A&E staff to provide the best care tailored to your needs.
• Personal Items: A phone charger and a small amount of money can be helpful during your stay. If you have a preference card or a brief written statement about how your mental health condition affects you and what helps in times of distress, bring that along too.
• Support Person: If possible, ask a trusted friend or family member to accompany you. They can offer emotional support, help communicate your needs, and assist in remembering the advice and instructions given by healthcare professionals.
• Comfort Items: Consider bringing a comforting personal item, such as a book, music player (with headphones), or a stress-relief object. These can provide a sense of comfort and a distraction during waiting periods.
• Emergency Contact List: Have a list of emergency contacts, including family members, friends, or carers who should be informed about your situation. This is particularly important if you need someone to look after dependents or pets while you are at A&E.

Remember, the goal of your visit is to get the help you need during a crisis. Being prepared can help reduce stress and ensure that the focus remains on your care and treatment.

What Happens There

While individual experiences at A&E can differ, there are common steps you'll likely go through upon arrival, designed to ensure you receive the care you need as swiftly as possible:

• Registration: Initially, you'll provide essential information such as your name and the specific reasons for your visit. This step is crucial for triage and ensuring you get the appropriate help.
• Assessment: You'll have a confidential conversation with a healthcare professional who will evaluate your mental health needs. It's important to be open about your mental health crisis to receive the most effective support.
• Waiting Time: Due to the unpredictable nature of emergencies, waiting periods can vary. Having a friend or family member for support during this time can be beneficial.
• Outcome: Depending on your assessment, the next steps may include receiving immediate treatment, being admitted for further care, or advice on follow-up services if discharge is the safest option.

How to Access A&E

UK's A&E departments provide critical support 24/7, ensuring that anyone facing a severe mental health crisis can receive immediate assistance without any cost. Finding your nearest A&E is straightforward: Utilise the NHS website for a quick search or dial NHS 111 for guidance. Options for reaching A&E include:

• Walking, if it's within a reasonable distance.
• Taking public transport or a taxi, for convenience.
• Seeking a lift from friends or family, for company and support.
• Calling 999 for an ambulance, if the situation is critical and immediate transportation is needed.

Remember, in a mental health emergency, getting to A&E promptly is paramount. Choose the fastest and safest method based on your situation.

Your Rights

In the UK, A&E departments are committed to providing emergency care to all who need it, ensuring that no one in a critical condition is turned away. If you're facing a mental health emergency, you have the right to receive immediate care. However, it's important to note that if your condition is assessed as non-urgent, healthcare professionals may recommend seeking support from your General Practitioner (GP) or a specialised mental health service. This guidance aims to connect you with the most appropriate care for your situation, ensuring long-term support beyond the immediate crisis.

Aftercare and Recovery

After an emergency visit to A&E for a mental health crisis, the journey towards recovery continues with structured aftercare and follow-up. Here's what you should know and consider to effectively navigate this critical phase:

• Understanding Your Aftercare Plan: Before leaving A&E, ensure you have a clear aftercare plan. This may include referrals to specialist mental health services, scheduled follow-up appointments, or recommendations for community support resources. Ask questions if anything is unclear and confirm the next steps in your care.
• Engaging with Specialist Services: If you're referred to specialist mental health services, such as community mental health teams (CMHTs) or specific therapy programmes, it's crucial to actively engage with these services. Attend all scheduled appointments and participate fully in any suggested treatments or interventions to support your recovery.
• Self-Care Strategies: Alongside professional support, implementing self-care strategies can significantly contribute to your well-being. This might include regular physical activity, mindfulness or relaxation techniques, maintaining a healthy diet, and ensuring adequate sleep. Identify activities that positively impact your mental health and make them a part of your routine.
• Building a Support Network: Recovery can be more manageable with a strong support network. This could involve family and friends, support groups, or online communities. Sharing your experiences and challenges with others who understand can provide emotional support and practical advice.
• Emergency and Crisis Plans: Work with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized crisis plan for managing potential future crises. This plan should include signs that indicate you might be entering a crisis, strategies to manage these signs, and steps to take if you need urgent help again.

Recovery from a mental health crisis is a personal journey that involves both professional support and self-care. By following your aftercare plan, engaging with specialist services, and utilizing self-care strategies, you can build a solid foundation for long-term recovery and resilience.

Rights and Advocacy

Navigating the healthcare system during a mental health crisis can be daunting. Being aware of your rights and knowing how to advocate for yourself or seek advocacy support are key components of receiving the care you need. Here's a closer look at these critical areas:

• Confidentiality: Your right to confidentiality means that information about your condition and treatment is protected and shared only with professionals directly involved in your care, unless there is a risk of harm to yourself or others. Understanding these boundaries can help you feel safer when discussing sensitive issues.
• Informed Consent: Informed consent is fundamental in healthcare. This means that any treatment offered should be fully explained to you, including potential benefits and risks, allowing you to make an informed decision about your care. If you're unable to give consent, healthcare providers will follow legal guidelines to ensure your best interests are considered.
• Access to Advocacy Services: Advocacy services play a vital role in supporting patients, especially during vulnerable times. An advocate can help you understand your rights, make informed decisions, and communicate your needs and preferences to healthcare professionals. They can also assist in raising concerns or complaints about your care.
• Participation in Care Planning: You have the right to be involved in all aspects of your care planning. This includes discussing treatment options, setting recovery goals, and planning for crisis management. Active participation can make your care more effective and tailored to your needs.
• Seeking Support from Patient Advocacy Groups: If you have concerns about your care or if you're unsure about your rights, patient advocacy groups can be an invaluable resource. These organisations can provide advice, support, and representation to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are respected within the healthcare system.

Empowering yourself with knowledge about your rights and available support services can make a significant difference in your healthcare experience. Whether it's through self-advocacy or with the help of an advocate, ensuring your needs and preferences are acknowledged is crucial for your mental health journey.