What to Expect After a Mental Health Crisis Assessment

Experiencing a mental health crisis can be overwhelming and confusing. If you’ve recently undergone a mental health crisis assessment, you might be wondering what happens next and how the support system will help you move forward. Understanding the process after a crisis assessment can ease anxiety and empower you to take charge of your recovery.

In this article, we explain what typically happens after a mental health crisis assessment, including possible hospital admission, community support options, and follow-up care.

What Is a Mental Health Crisis Assessment?

A mental health crisis assessment is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by trained professionals to understand your current mental health state, assess any risks to yourself or others, and determine the best course of action. These assessments can be carried out by crisis teams in the community or liaison psychiatry teams in hospital settings like Accident & Emergency (A&E).

The goal is to quickly identify the severity of the crisis, your needs, and the support available to keep you safe.

Possible Outcomes After a Crisis Assessment

1. Hospital Admission

In some cases, hospital admission may be necessary to provide intensive care and ensure safety. There are two types of hospital admission:

  • Voluntary (Informal) Admission: You agree to be admitted to the hospital and participate in treatment voluntarily.
  • Compulsory Admission Under the Mental Health Act: If you are assessed as lacking capacity to make treatment decisions or are at significant risk of harm to yourself or others, you may be admitted under legal powers to protect your safety.

Hospital stays provide 24/7 monitoring, medication management, and access to multidisciplinary mental health teams.

2. Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment Team (CRHTT)

If hospital admission is not required, you may be referred to a Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment Team. This team offers intensive support at home as an alternative to hospital.

The CRHTT will ensure you can stay safe in your community, either independently or with the help of family or carers. Services typically include:

  • Daily or twice-daily visits from mental health professionals
  • Medication management and monitoring
  • Assistance with coping strategies and crisis planning
  • Support from doctors, nurses, occupational therapists, and others

This approach helps you remain in your familiar environment while receiving expert care.

3. Referral to Community Mental Health Services

If your immediate crisis resolves but you need ongoing support, the crisis team or your GP may refer you to community-based mental health services such as:

  • Community Mental Health Teams (CMHT): Provide ongoing assessment, treatment, and support for people with long-term mental health conditions.
  • Talking Therapies: Including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or counselling.
  • Substance Misuse Services: If drug or alcohol use contributes to your mental health.
  • Peer Support Groups and Social Prescribing: To connect with others and access community resources.

These services help you build resilience and manage your mental health over time.

4. Discharge Back to Your GP

If your needs can be managed within primary care, you may be discharged back to your GP with advice and treatment plans to continue your recovery.

If you feel your concerns have not been fully addressed or you require additional specialist support, don’t hesitate to discuss this with your GP. They can make direct referrals to appropriate mental health services on your behalf.

How to Prepare for Aftercare Following a Crisis Assessment

  • Ask Questions: Make sure you understand your treatment plan and who will be involved.
  • Engage Your Support Network: Involve trusted family members or friends to support you.
  • Know Your Emergency Contacts: Keep crisis helpline numbers and local services handy.
  • Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Regular contact with healthcare providers is crucial.
  • Practice Self-Care: Use coping strategies and attend therapy sessions as recommended.

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