ABSTRACT

The choice of treatment for mental health problems falls into three areas: psychiatric medication, formal talking treatments and patience. Patience may not sound like a treatment choice, but many people will return to normal functioning given time with nothing more formal in the way of treatment than some reassurance, maybe rest and the support of friends and family. Allowing patients the choice of treatment is important in the less severe conditions. Some people will prefer a course of medication, some to spend time with a counsellor whilst others may choose to wait and see if things get better without formal treatment.