A person may need different types of support for mental health difficulties depending on their needs at particular times in their life. Often a ‘stepped’ approach is needed, which is made up of different levels of care and support (see Figure 1).
People can self-refer to supports and services from Levels 1–4. Self-refer means being able to contact or use a support or service directly without needing a letter from your doctor (GP) or another healthcare professional. This includes all the resources, supports and services listed on this website.
The GP is usually the first person to approach about mental health concerns. A referral is needed from the GP to access HSE Mental Health Services (Level 5). If appropriate, the GP may refer a person to this service, so that they can be assessed. This assessment is needed to find out if specialist mental health services are the best type of treatment for the person at that time.
