Mental Health Services

The term mental illness covers a range of different problems and challenges for our residents and at some time in our lives; one in four of us will be affected by some sort of mental illness.

There are many types of mental health problems, they can vary greatly. If you are concerned about yourself or anyone close to you it is important that your first contact is with your doctor. If you do not feel comfortable discussing this with your GP, there are many different organisations that may be able to help you. It may be Social Services, the NHS or a voluntary organisation such as MIND, Cmig or Alzheimer’s Society.

You may also wish to contact the Torfaen Carers’ Centre at 3 Crane Street Pontypool, Torfaen NP4 6LY, telephone 01495 753838 or Cmig Supporting Mental Health at 44 Victoria Street, Cwmbran, NP44 3JN, telephone 01633 877443.

Mental Health needs can be treated in numerous ways, including medication and counselling, which is managed by your GP. For serious mental illness referral to the Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) may be appropriate.

Mental illness is not confined to those with functional illnesses such as Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder etc. There are increasing numbers of Older People developing dementia type illness which is very debilitating and has a traumatic impact on the Service User and their carers. A greater number of younger people are being diagnosed with dementia type illnesses.

Substance misuse (including alcohol) is a significant factor in causing or contributing to mental illness and we work closely with external organisations such as the Kaleidoscope Project.