During late 2005 and through 2006 there will be major changes in the way mental health services are provided in Powys. People with mild to moderate mental health problems will be treated in Primary Care by services linked directly to GP surgeries. There will be a stepped care approach in line with recent National Institute for Clinical Excellence guidance.

GPs will discuss treatment options with patients and may be able to treat appropriately by themselves.  They may consider suggesting other options which could include:

• Self-help options by prescribing books dispensed by libraries in Powys.  All books are CBT-based (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).
   
• Further referral to one of the specialists in the Primary Care Mental Health Service.  These will include specialist nurses, counsellors or psychologists.  Contact may also be suggested with voluntary groups such as RELATE or CRUSE who may be able to help.

For more complex problems a referral to "secondary" services may be made.  Community Psychiatric Nurses, Social Workers and Psychiatrists make up these teams and they have other services to whom they can provide or refer people.  See also section on COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH TEAMS.

Books on Prescription

Book Prescription Wales continues to be successful.  The scheme allows highly recommended self-help books to be prescribed by GPs, practice counsellors and Community Mental Health Teams.  Once issued, the prescription can be exchanged for the book at any branch library throughout Wales.  Books prescribed have been specially selected by health professionals and are available inevery library across Wales so they are accessible to everyone, free of charge.

Download our A4 Booklist (PDF)
Download our Information Leaflet (PDF)