If you think you are experiencing mental illness, the first step is to visit your GP. You may then be referred to Oxleas NHS Trust's mental health services which may arrange for you to see a psychiatrist.

Once your problem has been diagnosed, a care programme will be developed based on your needs.

Mental health teams

Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust's Community Mental Health Teams provide:

• assessment and shared care, short term
• recovery care, long term
• drop-in services.

GP surgeries have direct access to both teams for their patients if a greater level of intervention is required again.

Learn more about Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust's Community Mental Health Teams

Assessment and Shared Care Team

The team provides short-term interventions (six months or less) for people whose needs cannot be met through community counselling.

Recovery Team

This team provides longer-term interventions (usually up to two years) and offers a high level of support with the emphasis on recovery, and a return to employment, education, or voluntary work.

Drug and alcohol assessment and care management for substance misusers in need of rehabilitation is managed from within this team.

Drop-in services

Both of the above services provide a walk-in service.

Bromley, Lewisham and Greenwich Mind provides a range of social groups and drop-in services to support people with mental health needs in Royal Greenwich.