When should someone see a psychiatrist?

See a psychiatrist when emotional, behavioural or thinking difficulties last more than two weeks, get in the way of daily life, or worry the people around you.

Common reasons to seek help include:

• Low mood, loss of interest, or constant worry that does not lift
• Sleep, appetite or energy that has changed a great deal
• Difficulty managing work, study, relationships or self-care
• Alcohol or drug use that is increasing or causing problems
• Hearing or seeing things others do not, or holding unusual beliefs
• Memory or behaviour changes in an older family member

You do not need to be sure it is "serious enough". An assessment will help you understand what is happening and what, if anything, needs to be done. A family member can also come first to seek advice.

Everyone has hard days

Sadness, worry, poor sleep and irritability are part of ordinary life, especially during stress, loss or change. Most of the time they ease as circumstances improve or with support from people around us. A psychiatric consultation becomes worthwhile when these difficulties become persistent, intense, or start to take over a person's life.

Three useful questions

How long has it lasted? Difficulties that continue for more than two weeks without easing deserve attention.

How much is it affecting life? Missing work or college, withdrawing from family and friends, neglecting eating, sleep or hygiene, or being unable to do things that used to be easy are all signs that help is needed.

Are others worried? People close to us often notice changes before we do. If family or friends are concerned, it is worth taking seriously.

Signs that deserve an early consultation

• Persistent low mood, hopelessness or loss of interest in things once enjoyed
• Worry, fear or panic attacks that restrict daily activities
• Repetitive thoughts or actions that are hard to control
• Marked changes in sleep, appetite, energy or concentration
• Periods of unusually high energy, little need for sleep, or reckless behaviour
• Hearing voices, seeing things, or beliefs that others find hard to follow
• Alcohol, tobacco or drug use that is increasing, hard to stop, or causing harm
• Forgetfulness, confusion or personality change, particularly in older adults
• Physical symptoms that doctors have not been able to explain, alongside stress

When it is urgent

Seek help the same day — through emergency services if needed — if someone:

• talks about wanting to die or harm themselves, or has made plans
• is threatening or likely to harm someone else
• is suddenly confused, disoriented or not making sense
• has stopped eating or drinking, or has not slept for several days
• is acting on frightening beliefs or voices

Why earlier is better

Many mental-health conditions respond well to treatment, and they tend to respond best when treated early. Waiting often means more time lost from work, studies and relationships, and a longer road back. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it is a practical step, just as it would be for any physical illness.

What if the person refuses to come?

This is very common. A family member can consult first to describe what is happening, understand the options and learn how to approach the person. Gentle, patient encouragement usually works better than pressure. In situations of serious risk, the Mental Healthcare Act 2017 sets out how emergency care can be provided.

What happens at the first consultation?

The psychiatrist will ask about the current difficulties, how they began, past health, medicines, family background and daily life. Sometimes a physical examination or tests are suggested to rule out medical causes. At the end, you should have a clearer understanding of what is going on and a plan — which may include advice, psychotherapy, medication, or a combination.

Bring any previous prescriptions and reports, and a family member or friend if you would like support.