Recovering from a mental illness takes time, and everyone moves through the recovery process in their own way and at their own pace. Your treatment might involve counselling and medication, or it may include stays in a mental health or psychiatric hospital or a residential care facility. If you are experiencing severe mental illness, you may need a combination of both home and hospital or residential care.
It is important to remember that recovery from a mental illness rarely moves in a straight line. There will be times when you can manage at home and times when you will need extra support in a hospital or residential care facility. How often you need intensive treatment or support will depend on the type of illness and the severity of your condition.
Before you leave hospital#
Before you leave hospital, make sure you have everything in place for when you are back at home. It can help to:
- talk to your family and friends about your concerns
- make a list of everything you will need to do
- speak to your doctor about how to get support services
- make an appointment with your local doctor for when you get home, to follow up on any medications you were given in hospital
Staying connected with your treatment team#
Keep on top of your ongoing treatment by staying in contact with your doctor or case manager. They are responsible for putting together your mental health care plan and managing your treatment. Be honest with them about how you are feeling and listen to their advice. They can help if you are not coping in the community, answer questions about your treatment, direct you to further support, and advise on further treatment if needed.
Significant changes in your health may mean you need a new mental health care plan. Even if there are no big changes to your situation, you should regularly review your care plan with your doctor or case manager to make sure it continues to meet your needs.
Support for carers#
Carers can benefit from support and services too. There are government and community programs that provide support, counselling, respite care and advice. Carers can contact mental health support services for advice from healthcare professionals and for access to information and resources, including details of support groups, benefits and services for family carers as well as for the people they care for.
After a hospital stay#
After a hospital stay, you may need further support before you can manage living independently again. A range of community-based options can help with this transition, such as community mental health and care services, supported accommodation, home-based outreach, and day programs that support recovery. Talk to your doctor or case manager about which options may suit your needs.
Key points#
- Recovery from a mental illness rarely moves in a straight line, and you may move between care at home and in hospital or residential care.
- Before leaving hospital, make a plan and arrange follow-up for any medications and support services.
- Keep on top of your ongoing treatment by staying in contact with your doctor or case manager.
- Your doctor or case manager is responsible for putting together your mental health care plan and managing your treatment.
- Carers can also access support, counselling, respite care and advice.
Where to get help#
Sources & further reading
For evidence-based global guidance on this topic, consult authoritative public-health bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO), CDC, NHS, and ECDC.