The benzodiazepines are licensed and officially approved to help treat the symptoms of:

• Anxiety (GAD or Generalised Anxiety Disorder)
• Alcohol Withdrawal
• Epilepsy
• Insomnia
• Panic disorder
• Psychiatric emergency

The benzodiazepines can also sometimes be used to help the symptoms of:

• Bipolar mood disorder
• Bipolar mania or hypomania
• Dementia
• Depression
• Psychosis
• Schizophrenia
• PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
• Social anxiety

The benzodiazepines are also sometimes used as muscle relaxants. There are other treatments for the conditions above. The main ones are included in the section on each of the conditions above.

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The usual dose of bromazepam in adults for anxiety in UK was 3-18mg a day a day, usually split up throughout the day. In older people the dose should be a bit lower e.g. half the adult dose. This is because it can cause more drowsiness and dizziness in older people. It was not recommended in children but this is only because it has not been studied rather than because of any concerns about safety.

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When you are anxious, your brain becomes more active. Your brain may produce a chemical messenger (or "neurotransmitter") called gamma-aminobutyric acid (or GABA) which is inhibitory, and makes you feel calmer. GABA is the brain's naturally occurring "calmer". The benzodiazepines boost the action of GABA and this helps calm the brain down. If you cannot sleep because your brain is too active or alert, then boosting GABA will help calm it down, and so help you get to sleep.

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This will rather depend on what you are taking it for. To help you choose, click on the links for the main options (self-help and help from others), the main medicines, and a handy chart comparing the main medicines:

• Alcohol withdrawal - main options, main medicines and handy chart
• Anxiety - main options, main medicines and handy chart
• Bipolar mood disorder - main options, main medicines and handy chart
• Bipolar mania - main options, main medicines and handy chart
• Dementia - main options, main medicines and handy chart
• Depression - main options, main medicines and handy chart
• Epilepsy - main options, main medicines
• Insomnia - main options, main medicines and handy chart
• Panic disorder - main options, main medicines and handy chart
• PTSD - main options, main medicines and handy chart
• Psychiatric emergency - main options, main medicines and handy chart
• Psychosis - main options, main medicines and handy chart
• Schizophrenia - main options, main medicines and handy chart
• Social anxiety - main options, main medicines and handy chart

There are other treatments for the conditions above. The main ones are included in the section on the condition above.

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Take your benzodiazepine as directed on the medicine label. Try to take them at regular times each day. Taking it at meal times may make it easier to remember as there is no problem about taking any of the benzodiazepines with or after food. If the instructions say to take them once a day this is usually best about half an hour before going to bed as they should make you drowsy and help you to sleep.

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Tablets and capsules: Tablets and capsules should be swallowed with at least half a glass of water whilst sitting or standing. This is to make sure that they reach the stomach and do not stick in your throat.

Liquids: Your pharmacist should give you a medicine spoon. Use it carefully to make sure you measure the correct amount. (Ask your pharmacist for a medicine spoon if you do not have one). Shake the bottle well before use as the drug can settle to the bottom and cause you to receive a lower dose at the start and too high a dose at the end of the bottle.

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This may depend on what you are taking a benzodiazepine for. Click the link below for the answer for that condition:

• Alcohol withdrawal
• Anxiety (GAD or Generalised Anxiety Disorder)
• Bipolar mood disorder
• Bipolar mania or hypomania
• Dementia
• Depression
• Epilepsy
• Insomnia
• Panic disorder
• Psychiatric emergency
• Psychosis
• Schizophrenia
• PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
• Social anxiety

Generally they should start to work fairly soon after you start to take them. After that your doctor may need to change the dose to suit you.

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This will depend on what you are taking a benzodiazepine for. It may also depend on how unwell you have been or how severe the symptoms have been, as people respond differently. Click on the link below for the answer for that condition:

• Anxiety (GAD or Generalised Anxiety Disorder)
• Alcohol withdrawal
• Bipolar mood disorder
• Bipolar mania or hypomania
• Dementia
• Depression
• Epilepsy
• Insomnia
• Panic disorder
• Psychiatric emergency
• Psychosis
• Schizophrenia
• PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
• Social anxiety

Benzodiazepines are very safe drugs if used sensibly. They are best taken in as low a dose as possible for a short time e.g. often as a "first aid" measure. Usually this should be no longer than about one month to help you get over your problems and for other treatments to start working. If you need to take them for longer you should discuss this regularly with your doctor. Some people with long-term problems may need to take them for longer.

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Due to the effects that benzodiazepines have on the brain they can produce withdrawal or discontinuation symptoms in some people who have taken them regularly every day for more than about 4 to 6 weeks. About 1 in 3 people get no symptoms, about 1 in 3 get some that last for a few weeks, and about 1 in 3 people get more marked symptoms. In the worst cases the symptoms from stopping benzodiazepines quickly could include anxiety, tension, panic attacks, poor concentration, difficulty in sleeping, nausea, trembling, palpitations, sweating and pains and stiffness in your face, head and neck (not unlike anxiety itself). These withdrawal symptoms could occur several days after stopping your benzodiazepine. They may last from one to three weeks but can go on for months, and are more likely with alcohol dependence. If you have taken a benzodiazepine for a long period you should stop it slowly over several weeks or months. This is best done by reducing your dose a little every few weeks and will reduce the chance of withdrawal effects.

It is also true to say that many people get no withdrawal symptoms when they stop benzodiazepines, even if they have been taking them for many years. You should thus make sure that you discuss your particular treatment with your doctor.

To be academic, for a drug to be addictive or produce dependence, then it must have a number of characteristics:

• should produce craving for the drug when the last dose "wears off"

• there should be a "reward" (e.g. a good feeling) from taking the drug

• should produce tolerance ie you need more drug to get the same effect

• should produce withdrawal symptoms specific to that drug.

These characteristics come from the World Health Organisation.

Click here to read a bit more about this, where you can find our thoughts on this knotty problem.

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Start again as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not try to catch up by taking two or more doses at once as you may get more side-effects e.g. sleepiness. If you miss several doses start again when you remember. Tell your doctor about this next time you meet. Missing the occasional dose (e.g. once a week) isn't usually a big problem.

If you have problems remembering your doses (as very many people do) ask you pharmacist, doctor or nurse about this. There are some special packs, boxes and devices that can be used to help you remember. You can try leaving the pack somewhere you will see it each morning e.g. in the bathroom, kitchen, by your bed etc.

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It is best not to stop taking a benzodiazepine suddenly if you have been taking it regularly every day for more than about 4 to 6 weeks. If you do, you may get some of the withdrawal effects mentioned above. If you take them only when really necessary (e.g. for 1 or 2 weeks during a severe attack of anxiety and then have several weeks without them) this is better than taking them all the time and can prevent you becoming dependent. You should talk about this with your doctor.

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The table below will show you some of the main side effects you might get from a benzodiazepine.

Do not be worried by this list of side effects. Some people get no side effects at all and others may get some effects that are not listed in this table. Side effects tend to be worse with higher doses. Starting with a lower dose sometimes helps. If you think you might have a side effect to your medicine, you should discuss this with your doctor, nurse of pharmacist. You should also see the manufacturer's information leaflet.

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Depending on the dose the benzodiazpines should help to calm you down, but they can calm you down too much and send you to sleep. At a usual dose they may make you feel a bit drowsy or sleepy anyway, especially to start with. If you are taking it at night you may feel drowsy the next morning so you should not drive (see below) or operate machinery until you know how they affect you. You should be careful as they may affect your reaction times.

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It is not thought that benzodiazepines cause any changes in weight. If, however, you do start to have problems with your weight tell your doctor next time you meet as he or she can arrange for you to see a dietician for advice.

Click here for a few tips on how to help you feel less hungry and lose weight.

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Drugs can affect desire (libido), arousal (erection) and orgasmic ability. Benzodiazepines do not have any known effects on any of these stages. Drowsiness may have some effect. In some people, reduced anxiety may be an advantage.

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You should have no problem with any foods or drinks, other than alcohol (see separate question). Caffeine is a stimulant and can cancel out the calming effects of benzodiazepines. This can happen at fairly low doses e.g. 250mg of caffeine a day (which is about 2-3 mugs of tea or coffee, either instant or "real").  

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Whether or not it is safe to drink alcohol with any medicine will depend on:

• How much you have to drink e.g. the amount and over how long
• What you then try to do (e.g. sleep or drive)
• If you have any other conditions e.g. asthma or a chest infection (as alcohol can make it harder to breathe), epilepsy
• If you are taking any other medicines

Alcohol reaches all parts of the brain and can affect many things e.g. thinking, reactions and breathing. Alcohol can also boost the effect of GABA (the brain's main calming chemical messenger).

If you drink alcohol while taking a benzodiazepine, it will make you feel much more sleepy. This is very important if you need to drive or operate machinery. It may make it more difficult to keep you car on the road. You must seek advice on this. Benzodiazepines and alcohol can slow your reflexes or reaction times. They can also increase the effects of alcohol and so it is best to avoid alcohol.  

It is not safe to drive after drinking alcohol, with or without a benzodiazepine. Some countries allow driving after a small amount of alcohol but others have a zero tolerance. The UK has the highest limit in Europe, France lower, Scandanavia even lower and zero in some Eastern European countries. It is not possible to say what blood level you might have from a drink so it is safest not to drink if you know you may have to drive. It is taken as a very serious offence in most countries. You should see National Guidelines, laws and regulations in the country in which you are driving.

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The benzodiazepines have a few interaction with other medicines:

• The sedating effects of benzodiazepines can be increased by any other drug causing sedation e.g. alcohol, antihistamines (e.g. promethazine), barbiturates (e.g. phenobarbital), opioids (e.g. codeine, morphine), ritonavir, tricyclics (e.g. dosulepin, imipramine, lofepramine), antipsychotics (e.g. olanzapine, quetiapine, clozapine), mianserin, mirtazapine, pregabalin, cannabis, beta-blockers (e.g. propranolol, atenolol), calcium-channel blockers (e.g. diltiazem, verapamil), itraconazole, ketoconazole, omeprazole or esomeprazole (but not pantoprazole) for stomach ulcers, sodium valproate or disulfiram.
• The effects of benzodiazepines can sometimes be decreased by caffeine, aminophylline or theophylline

This does not necessarily mean that this will happen in everyone or that some of these medicines can not be used together. It is just that you may need to follow your doctor's instructions very carefully. There are many other possible drug interactions (e.g. you can try an external on-line drug interactions checker, although this is nothing to do with our site).

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Cigarette smoke contains over 3000 different chemicals. Some of these chemicals can make some of the enzymes in the liver work faster (called "enzyme induction" of e.g. CYP1A2 or P4501A2). This means that any medicine those enzymes break down will be broken down quicker. So, you'll end up with less of that medicine if you smoke. And also you will have more of it in the body if you stop smoking.

The benzodiazepines are those types of medicines. The amount of a benzodiazepine in the body can drop a little if you smoke, giving less effect or meaning you might need a higher dose to get the same effect (although probably not with chlordiazepoxide). It also means that if you stop smoking, the levels will rise so you might get more side effects.

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By including this section, we're not saying it's right to take illicit or illegal drugs, because it isn't. We're just trying to answer the questions as best we can under the circumstances. With illicit drugs, the full answer is usually that we don't really know. So, we can only go on a few studies, a few reports and what we know about the drugs themselves.

Cannabis (illegal in most countries):

Smoking cannabis increases the amount of dopamine in the pleasure centres of the brain, which is where the reward or buzz comes from. You have to remember that cannabis can increase dopamine in all areas of the brain and so can make psychosis worse. Please be careful, everything in moderation and if dope makes you worse, keep off the grass. It really won't help you in the long-term. Don't forget that if you're a toker, you're also a smoker, so see the question above. However, the benzodiazepines do not seem to be affected so there seem to be no extra problems if smoking cannabis with a benzodiazepine. You might feel a little more drowsy and you are also smoking so you need to see that section too.

Cocaine (illegal in most countries)

Cocaine is of course highly addictive and has many adverse or side effects on the body and brain. It can make most mental health symptoms worse in the long-term. However, there are no reports of extra problems with a benzodiazepine and cocaine, although this doesn't mean it's safe.

Ecstasy (illegal in most countries)

Ecstasy has many effects on the brain, the main ones producing the high seem to be by boosting serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine in the brain. While it can cause a high, the effect wears off fairly quickly. It seems that the toxic effects on the brain are cumulative i.e. the more tablets you have over your lifetime, the more chance you have of having damage to the brain e.g. long-term depression and poor memory. However, there are no reports of extra problems with a benzodiazepine and ecstasy, but again this doesn't mean it's safe.

Opiates

The opiates include many chemicals, some of which are used in medical care (e.g. codeine for diarrhoea and stopping coughs, diamorphine and morphine for pain). There are no extra problems reported from taking opiates (e.g. heroin, methadone, codeine) with a benzodiazepine, except that you might feel more drowsy and higher doses of either or both could make it much harder to breathe. This can be dangerous. If this happens you should phone for an ambulance straight away or get to the A&E or emergency department of your nearest hospital immediately.

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In the UK, Levonelle one step® is available and is usually known as 'the morning after pill'. It is taken to reduce the chances of becoming pregnant after unprotected sex or failure of a contraceptive method. In fact "Emergency Contraception" is the better term because it can be taken up to 72 hours (3 days) afterwards. It can be bought over-the-counter without a prescription from pharmacies. EllaOne® tablets (which may work up to 5 days afterwards) and a coil (Intra-uterine device) can also be used but must be prescribed by a Doctor.

If you are taking a benzodiazepine, the usual dose should work if you follow the instructions carefully.

N.B. We accept that for religious, cultural or ethical reasons some people do not approve of, or agree with, the use of the "Morning After" pill. However, we have answered the question because it is one of the most often asked of NHS Direct in UK, and they suggested we include it.

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Several female functions such as menstrual cycle (e.g. your periods) are controlled by a hormone called prolactin. Prolactin in the body rises during and after pregnancy and this triggers the body to make breast milk. The amount of prolactin in the body is kept in control by one part of the brain uses dopamine as its chemical messenger. Some medicines (especially antipsychotics) block the effect of dopamine in the brain.

Luckily the benzodiazepines don't seem to have any effect on dopamine in this part of the brain and so should not have any effect on your periods. If your periods are irregular or late, or you start leaking milk, then you should see your doctor about this to find the cause.

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You should have no problems with "The Pill" and any of the benzodiazepines.

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It is important to consider that there will be a risk to you and your child from taking a medicine during pregnancy but also a possible risk from stopping the medicine e.g. getting ill again. Unfortunately, no decision is risk-free. It will be for you to decide which is the least risk. All we can do here is to help you understand some of the issues, so you can make an informed decision. For your information, major malformations occur "spontaneously" in about 2-4% of all pregnancies, even if no drugs are taken. The main problem with medicines is termed "teratogenicity" i.e. a medicine causing a malformation in the unborn child. A medicine causing teratogenicity is called a "teratogen". Since a baby has completed it's main development between days 17 and 60 of the pregnancy (the so-called "first trimester") these first 2-16 weeks are the main concern. After that, there may be other problems e.g. some medicines may cause slower growth. The infant may also be affected after birth e.g. withdrawal effects are possible with some drugs.

If possible, the best option is to plan in advance. If you think you could become pregnant, discuss this with your doctor and it may be possible to switch to medicines thought to carry least risk, and take other risk-reducing steps e.g. adjusting doses, taking vitamin supplements etc. If you have just discovered you are pregnant, don't panic, but seek advice from your GP within the next few days if possible. He or she may also want to refer you on to someone with more specialist knowledge of your medicine.

Very few medicines have been shown to be completely safe in pregnancy and so no manufacturer or advisor can ever say any medicine is safe. They will usually advise not to take a medicine during pregnancy, unless the benefit is much greater than the risk. In the UK, there is the NTIS (National Teratology Information Service) who offer individual risk assessments. However, their advice should always be used to help you and your doctor decide what is the risk to you and your baby. There is a risk from taking the medicine and a risk should you stop a medicine e.g. you might become ill again and need to go back on the medication again. The advice offered here is just that i.e. advice, but may give you some idea about the possible risks and what (at the time of writing) is known through the medical press.

It may be helpful to know that in the USA, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) classifies medicines in pregnancy in five groups:
A = Studies show no risk, so harm to the unborn child appears only a remote possibility
B = Animal and human studies indicate a lack of risk but are not fully conclusive
C = Animal studies indicate a risk but there is no safety data in humans
D = a definite risk exists but the benefit may outweigh the risk in some people
X = the risk outweighs any possible benefit

The benzodiazepines are classified as follows: alprazolam "D", chlordiazepoxide "C", clonazepam "D", diazepam "D", lorazepam "D" and oxazepam "D". The others are not classified. Although some studies have shown a slightly increased chance of abnormalities with benzodiazepines, alcohol and other drug use may have been the reason for this. The risk of oral clefts is reported to be about 7 in 1000 births with diazepam. Occasional use of shorter-acting benzodiazepines would appear to have a very low risk. Regular use of longer-acting benzodiazepines (e.g. chlordiazepoxide, diazepam) may also lead to some short-term breathing difficulties in newborn babies, and some withdrawal effects e.g. the floppy baby syndrome. You should seek personal advice from your GP, who may then if necessary seek further specialist advice.

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Almost every medicine passes into breast-milk. The main questions are how much and if this is likely to have an effect on your baby. But also remember that being ill (e.g. depressed, manic, psychotic) may have more harmful and lasting effects on you and your child (such as bonding and behaviour e.g. Field, 2010) than a small amount of an effective medicine. If you have been taking a medicine while you are pregnant, you should usually be able to carry on as the amount in breast-milk is much less than the baby would have got while you were pregnant. It is usually thought to be fairly safe if the baby gets less than 10% of the mum's dose. But there may be times when although a medicine gets into breast milk the benefit may be worth the risk, so you should seek personal advice on this.

If you stop any medicine suddenly, some people can get discontinuation or withdrawal symptoms (see question above). If you have been taking a medicine during pregnancy, the same can sometimes happen to the baby when born. If the drug gets into breast milk, this can reduce the effect of suddenly not having the medicine (as well as coping with being in the big wide world too).

If you want to breast-feed there are some things you can do to reduce any risk:

• Nearly all medicines can be taken once a day. So, taking your daily dose just before the baby's longest sleep (often this will be at night) will reduce the amount the baby gets from the milk.

• Any side effects in the baby will be higher if the mum is taking a higher dose. So, try to take the lowest dose possible to still get an effect.

• Try not to take any medicines you don't really need. This includes any medicines you might buy over-the-counter

• Make sure your nurse, health visitor or doctor checks your baby for any side effects e.g. being extra sleepy, having colic, feeding problems, being floppy or poor weight gain. If there are any problems you might need to switch medicines or drop your dose a bit

• Hind milk (the second half of the feed) is likely to contain slightly more of any medicine than the first half

• Avoid new medicines if possible as there is less information about them and breast-feeding.

You must be extra careful of any medicines if your baby was pre-mature, or has kidney, liver, heart or brain problems.

We know that all the benzodiazepines get into breast milk so you must be very careful if you breast-feed. Some of the benzodiazepines can build up in the milk and should be avoided e.g. diazepam and chlordiazepoxide. Oxazepam and possibly lorazepam and temazepam seem to be the best choices. You should discuss this with your doctor, nurse or health visitor because they will be able to make regular checks on your baby to make sure there are no problems, such as poor feeding, drowsiness and weight loss.

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The benzodiazepines can reduce your ability to carry out skilled tasks such as driving or operating machinery. You may also feel drowsy after you take them. People who take benzodiazepines are more likely to have road accidents, possibly because it can be more difficult to "maintain road position" ^{(Rapoport 2009)}. Until these effects wear off or you know how your benzodiazepine affects you do not drive or operate machinery. You should be careful as they may affect your reaction times.

If you are taking any medicines (including benzodiazepines), the rules about driving will depend on the country you’re driving in. Click on the links below for advice:

• Medicines and driving in the UK (England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales)

• Medicines and driving in the Republic of Ireland

General advice on driving safely

If you want to drive, you should take sensible steps to reduce any risk. These could include:

• Avoid driving when you are tired or ill
• Do not drive after having any alcohol as this can make any drowsiness worse (a third of all fatal road traffic incidents involve alcohol-dependent drivers)
• Avoid driving at night, dusk or in bad weather
• Avoid motorways, dual carriageways and the rush hour
• Give yourself plenty of time. Don’t rush
• Be extra careful if you have not slept well the previous night

As some medicines can affect your driving, be extra careful:

• If starting a new medicine
• After a change in dose (especially an increase)
• If you are on a high dose or seem very sensitive to side effects
• If you are taking any medicines for other symptoms e.g. antihistamines for hay fever or allergies
• If your medicine causes you blurred vision, drowsiness, poor co-ordination, poor attention

If you are driving less than 2000 miles a year, once you consider insurance, tax, MoT, repairs, maintenance, parking and petrol, you may actually find it is cheaper to get taxis and busses, and walk the short journeys.

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You will not usually need to have any tests to check on your benzodiazepine.

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There are a wealth of people, groups, organisations and resources that can provide you with further information about mental health conditions and treatments including medication. Use the links below to help you find out more.

• Where can I find out more information about anxiety?

  Use the resources below to find out more information about anxiety. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  If you want a more in-depth read, you could do no better than visit the BAP (British Association for Psychopharmacology) public web pages, where there are some fairly scientific articles, including about anxiety disorders so click here to get there.

  Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site

  Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  Information about local mental health trusts is available on the NHS Choices website.

  ^{Updated 11.11}

  Resources

  • Evidence-based guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of anxiety disorders

    Download the British Association for Psychopharmacology guidelines (PDF 254 KB) from www.bap.org.uk.

    Credit: British Association for Psychopharmacology

  • Anxiety and Phobias leaflet

    Read the leaflet on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.

     

    Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists

    The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional and educational body for psychiatrists in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

    Address: 17, Belgrave Square, London, SW1X 8PG

    Email: rcpsych@rcpsych.ac.uk

    Website: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/

     

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • Anxiety and Phobias leaflet for carers and professionals

    Download the leaflet from the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • Understanding anxiety leaflet

    Read the leaflet on the MIND website.

    Credit: MIND

  • NHS Direct

    NHS Direct is at the forefront of 24-hour health care - delivering telephone and e-health information services day and night direct to the public.
    Tel: 0845 4647
    Website: http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/

    Credit: NHS Direct

  • NetDoctor.co.uk

    NetDoctor.co.uk is a collaboration between committed doctors, health care professionals, information specialists and patients who believe that medical practice should be based on quality-assessed information and, wherever possible, on the basis of the principles of evidence-based medicine.
    Website: http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/

    Credit: NetDoctor.co.uk

  • MIND

    MIND is one of the leading mental health charities in England and Wales. MIND works to create a better life for everyone with experience of mental distress.
    Tel: 0845 766 0163
    Website: www.mind.org.uk

    Credit: MIND

  • National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence

    National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) is an independent organisation responsible for providing national guidance on promoting good health and preventing and treating ill health.
    Address: National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, MidCity Place, 71 High Holborn, London, WC1V 6NA
    Telephone: +44 (0)845 003 7780
    Fax: +44 (0)845 003 7784
    Email: nice@nice.org.uk
    Website: www.nice.org.uk

    Credit: National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence

  • Computerised cognitive behaviour therapy for depression and anxiety

    Evidence based technology appraisal from NICE recommend the options of psychological therapies and drugs for serious mental illness. NICE guidelines on depression state "cognitive -behavioural therapy should be offered as it is of equal effectiveness to anti-depressants".

    Credit: National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE)

  • The Depression Report: A New Deal for Depression and Anxiety Disorders

    This report also known as the Layard Report recommends increasing access to psychological therapies, especially Computerised Behavioural Therapies (CBT) in order to help alleviate the suffering of people with mental health problems.

    Credit: Professor Lord Richard Layard, Centre for Economic Performance's Mental Health Policy group, London School of Economics

  • Hide this answer
  • Sources for this information
• Where can I find out more information about ADHD?

  The resources below provide more information about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site

  Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  ADHD and You, a website from Shire, who make Equasym XL, with some handy stuff on ADHD for parents/carers, teachers, professionals and, of course, people with ADHD

  ADDISS, The National Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service are a great ADHD organisation, led by Andrea Bilbow.

  ^{Updated 3.12}

  Resources

  • Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and hyperkinetic disorder: for parents and teachers

    Read the leaflet on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.

     

    Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists

    The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional and educational body for psychiatrists in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

    Address: 17, Belgrave Square, London, SW1X 8PG

    Email: rcpsych@rcpsych.ac.uk

    Website: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/

     

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service (ADISS)

    ADDIS provide people-friendly information and resources about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) to anyone who needs assistance parents, sufferers, teachers or health professionals. For more information:
    Telephone: 020 8906 9068, Website: www.addiss.co.uk, Email: info@addiss.co.uk.

    Credit: Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service

  • Evidence-based guidelines for management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adolescents in transition to adult services and in adults

    Download recommendations (PDF 389 KB) from the British Association for Psychopharmacology website at www.bap.org.uk.

    Credit: British Association for Psychopharmacology

  • Hide this answer
  • Sources for this information
• Where can I find out more information about bipolar mood disorder?

  The resources below provide specialist information on bipolar disorder. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  If you want a more in-depth read, you could no better than visit the BAP (British Association for Psychopharmacology) public web pages, where there are some fairly scientific articles, including about bipolar disorder so click here to get there.

  Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site

  Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  ^6.11

  Resources

  • Manic depressive illness leaflet

    Download the leaflet from the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

      

    Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists

    The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional and educational body for psychiatrists in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

    Address: 17, Belgrave Square, London, SW1X 8PG

    Email: rcpsych@rcpsych.ac.uk

    Website: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • Introduction to bipolar disorder

    A useful introdution by the WHO UK Collaborating Centre
    Read online at the National Library for Health Mental Health Specialist Library
    Download this article as a PDF

    Credit: WHO UK Collaborating Centre

  • Bipolar Disorder: the management of bipolar disorder in adults, children and adolescents, in primary and secondary care

    Download the NICE Guideline from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence website.

    Credit: National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence

  • Evidence-based guidelines for treating bipolar disorder

    Download the British Association for Psychopharmacology guidelines (PDF 166 KB) from www.bap.org.uk.

    Credit: British Association for Psychopharmacology

  • MDF The Bipolar Organisation

    MDF The Bipolar Organisation is a user led charity working to enable people affected by manic depression to take control of their lives.
    Tel: 08456 340 540
    Website: http://www.mdf.org.uk/
    Email: mdf@mdf.org.uk
    Address: MDF The Bipolar Organisation, Castle Works, 21 St. George's Road, London, SE1 6ES

    Credit: Manic Depression Fellowship (MDF)

  • Flowcharts to illustrate the evidence-based guidelines for treating bipolar disorder

    Download flowcharts (PDF 30kB) to illustrate the guidelines, produced by the British Association for Psychopharmacology in consultation with the Manic Depression Fellowship from www.bap.org.uk.

    Credit: British Association for Psychopharmacology, Manic Depression Fellowship

  • Depression Alliance

    The Depression Alliance provides information, support and understanding for people who suffer with depression, and for relatives who want to help.
    Tel: 0845 123 23 20
    Email: information@depressionalliance.org
    Website: www.depressionalliance.org

    Credit: Depression Alliance

  • Depression UK

    Depression UK (Previously the Fellowship of Depressives Anonymous) is a national mutual support group for people suffering from depression.
    Tel: 0845 123 23 20
    Email: info@depressionuk.org
    Website: www.depressionuk.org

    Credit: Depression UK

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• Where can I find out more information about dementia?

  The resources below provide more information  about dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  The Mental Health Foundation have recently launched a range of information materials produced by Dementia Choices, covering Dementia and Self Directed Support, for sufferers, carers and professionals.

  The NHS has produced "Alzheimer's in the news - A Behind the Headlines Special Report" in August 2011 to review the dozens of media reports about Alzheimers, spot some of the more important stories and examine some stories that were "wide of the mark".

  Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site

  Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  ^{Updated 8.11}

  Resources

  • Memory and Dementia leaflet

    Read the leaflet on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.

     

    Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists

    The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional and educational body for psychiatrists in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

    Address: 17, Belgrave Square, London, SW1X 8PG

    Email: rcpsych@rcpsych.ac.uk

    Website: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • At your Fingertips: Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Your questions answered.

    Read the full text of the book on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.

    Credit: Mr. Harry Cayton, Dr. Nori Graham and Dr. James Warner. Class Publishing (London) Ltd. 2nd edition 2002.

  • Clinical practice with anti-dementia drugs

    Download the consensus statement (PDF 361 KB) from the British Association for Psychopharmacology website www.bap.org.uk.

    Credit: British Association for Psychopharmacology

  • Drug Treatment of Alzheimer's disease leaflet

    Read the leaflet on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • Understanding dementia leaflet

    Read the leaflet on the MIND website.

    Credit: MIND

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• Where can I find out more information about depression?

  Use the resources below to find out more information about depression. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  If you want a more in-depth read, you could no better than visit the BAP (British Association for Psychopharmacology) public web pages, where there are some fairly scientific articles, including about antidepressants so click here, to get there.

  Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site

  Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  Resources

  • Depression Alliance

    
    Depression Alliance is one of the leading UK organisations trying to improve the care of depression. They have a document called "Daring to choose", which has some key needs for depression, plus a website called whatyoushouldknowaboutdepression, which has a helpful guide on choosing your own treatment and antidepressant by John Donoghue.
    

  • Depression leaflet

    Read the leaflet on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.

    Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists

    The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional and educational body for psychiatrists in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

    Address: 17, Belgrave Square, London, SW1X 8PG

    Email: mailto:Royal%20College%20of%20Psychiatrists%3Crcpsych@rcpsych.ac.uk%3E?subject=Message%20from%20Choice%20and%20medication%20website

    Website: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • Depression: a leaflet for carers and professionals working with people with depression

    Download the leaflet from the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • Computerised cognitive behaviour therapy for depression and anxiety

    Evidence based technology appraisal from NICE recommend the options of psychological therapies and drugs for serious mental illness. NICE guidelines on depression state "cognitive -behavioural therapy should be offered as it is of equal effectiveness to anti-depressants".

    Credit: National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE)

  • Evidence-based guidelines for treating depressive disorders with antidepressants

    Download the revision of the 2000 British Association for Psychopharmacology (BAP) guidelines (PDF 491 KB) from http://www.bap.org.uk/.

    Credit: British Association for Psychopharmacology

  • The Depression Report: A New Deal for Depression and Anxiety Disorders

    This report also known as the Layard Report recommends increasing access to psychological therapies, especially Computerised Behavioural Therapies (CBT) in order to help alleviate the suffering of people with mental health problems.

    Credit: Professor Lord Richard Layard, Centre for Economic Performance's Mental Health Policy group, London School of Economics

  • More to depression

  A 2011 survey on choice in antidepressants can be found at: http://www.moretodepression.co.uk/.

  6.11

  Resources

  • Depression leaflet

    Read the leaflet on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.

     

    Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists

    The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional and educational body for psychiatrists in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

    Address: 17, Belgrave Square, London, SW1X 8PG

    Email: rcpsych@rcpsych.ac.uk

    Website: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • Depression: a leaflet for carers and professionals working with people with depression

    Download the leaflet from the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • Computerised cognitive behaviour therapy for depression and anxiety

    Evidence based technology appraisal from NICE recommend the options of psychological therapies and drugs for serious mental illness. NICE guidelines on depression state "cognitive -behavioural therapy should be offered as it is of equal effectiveness to anti-depressants".

    Credit: National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE)

  • Evidence-based guidelines for treating depressive disorders with antidepressants

    Download the revision of the 2000 British Association for Psychopharmacology (BAP) guidelines (PDF 491 KB) from www.bap.org.uk.

    Credit: British Association for Psychopharmacology

  • The Depression Report: A New Deal for Depression and Anxiety Disorders

    This report also known as the Layard Report recommends increasing access to psychological therapies, especially Computerised Behavioural Therapies (CBT) in order to help alleviate the suffering of people with mental health problems.

    Credit: Professor Lord Richard Layard, Centre for Economic Performance's Mental Health Policy group, London School of Economics

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• Where can I find out more information about eating disorders?

  Use the resources below to find out more information about eating disorders. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site

  Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  ^6.11

  Resources

  • Eating Disorders : a leaflet for carers and professionals working with people with eating disorders

    Download the leaflet from the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • Eating Disorders leaflet

    Read the leaflet on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

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• Where can I find out more information about epilepsy?

  The resources below provide more information  about epilepsy. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site

  Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  ^6.11

  Resources

  • Epilepsy article

    Read the article on the NHS Direct website.

    Credit: NHS Direct

  • What is epilepsy?

    Read the article on the National Society for Epilepsy website.

    Credit: National Society for Epilepsy

  • Epilepsy: a guide for patients and carers

    Read the guide on the British Brain and Spine Foundation website.

    Credit: British Brain and Spine Foundation

  • What is epilepsy leaflet

    Read the leaflet on the Epilepsy Action website.

    Credit: Epilepsy Action

  • Epilepsy in adults and children: Information for the public

    Download the Clinical Guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence.

    Credit: National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence

  • Epilepsy Action

    Epilepsy Action is the largest member-led epilepsy organisation in Britain, acting as the voice for the UK's estimated 456,000 people with epilepsy, as well as their friends, families, carers, health professionals and the many other people on whose lives the condition has an impact. Epilepsy Action offers assistance to people in a number of ways including a national network of branches, accredited volunteers, regular regional conferences and freephone and email helplines.
    Freephone Helpline: 0808 800 5050
    Email Helpline: mailto:helpline@epilepsy.org.uk
    Free Fax Helpline: 0808 800 5555
    Website: www.epilepsy.org.uk
    Email: epilepsy@epilepsy.org.uk

    Credit: Epilepsy Action

  • National Society for Epilepsy

    The National Society for Epilepsy is provides information and support to people with epilepsy. They also provide care for people with epilepsy through medical and residential services.
    Tel: 01494 601300
    Fax: 01494 871927
    UK Epilepsy Helpline: 01494 601400 (10am-4pm, Monday to Friday)
    Website: www.epilepsynse.org.uk

    Credit: National Society for Epilepsy

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• Where can I find out more information about mania or hypomania?

  The resources below provide specialist information on mania or hypomania. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  If you want a more in-depth read, you could no better than visit the BAP (British Association for Psychopharmacology) public web pages, where there are some fairly scientific articles, including about bipolar disorder so click here to get there.

  Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site

  Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  ^{Updated 8.11}

  Resources

  • Medications for mania

    Download the leaflet from the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • MDF The Bipolar Organisation

    MDF The Bipolar Organisation is a user led charity working to enable people affected by manic depression to take control of their lives.
    Tel: 08456 340 540
    Website: http://www.mdf.org.uk/
    Email: mdf@mdf.org.uk
    Address: MDF The Bipolar Organisation, Castle Works, 21 St. George's Road, London, SE1 6ES

    Credit: Manic Depression Fellowship (MDF)

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• Where can I find out more information about insomnia?

  Use the resources below to find out more information about insomnia. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and we can take no responsibility for the content of these sites. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  • How did you sleep? has lots of useful stuff. Last time we checked it out, you could download a Sleep Guide to improve your sleep, find out why sleep matters, and test your sleep in-depth with the Great British Sleep Survey.

  • Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site
  • Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  ^6.11

  Resources

  • Sleep Problems in Childhood and Adolescence: for parents and teachers

    Read the leaflet on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.

     

    Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists

    The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional and educational body for psychiatrists in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

    Address: 17, Belgrave Square, London, SW1X 8PG

    Email: rcpsych@rcpsych.ac.uk

    Website: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • Sleeping Well leaflet

    Read the leaflet on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • How can I get a good night's sleep?

    Read the article on the NHS Direct website.

    Credit: NHS Direct

  • British Sleep Society

    The British Sleep Society (BSS) is an professional organisation for medical, scientific and healthcare workers dealing with sleeping disorders.
    Website: www.sleeping.org.uk
    Email enquires for professional related issues: professional@sleeping.org.uk

    Credit: British Sleep Society

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• Where can I find out more information about OCD?

  Use the resources below to find out more information about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  If you want a more in-depth read, you could no better than visit the BAP (British Association for Psychopharmacology) public web pages, where there are some fairly scientific articles, including about anxiety disorders so click here, to get there.

  Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site

  Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  ^6.11

  Resources

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder leaflet

    Read the leaflet on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.

     

    Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists

    The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional and educational body for psychiatrists in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

    Address: 17, Belgrave Square, London, SW1X 8PG

    Email: rcpsych@rcpsych.ac.uk

    Website: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

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• Where can I find out more information about panic disorder?

  Use the resources below to find out more information about panic disorder. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  If you want a more in-depth read, you could no better than visit the BAP (British Association for Psychopharmacology) public web pages, where there are some fairly scientific articles, including about anxiety disorders so click here, to get there.

  Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site

  Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  ^6.11

  Resources

  • Anxiety and Phobias leaflet

    Read the leaflet on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.

     

    Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists

    The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional and educational body for psychiatrists in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

    Address: 17, Belgrave Square, London, SW1X 8PG

    Email: rcpsych@rcpsych.ac.uk

    Website: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/

     

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

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• Where can I find out more information about post traumatic stress disorder?

  Use the resources below to find out more information about post traumatic stress disorder. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  If you want a more in-depth read, you could no better than visit the BAP (British Association for Psychopharmacology) public web pages, where there are some fairly scientific articles, including about anxiety disorders so click here, to get there.

  Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site

  Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  ^6.11

  Resources

  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder leaflet

    Read the leaflet on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.

     

    Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists

    The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional and educational body for psychiatrists in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

    Address: 17, Belgrave Square, London, SW1X 8PG

    Email: rcpsych@rcpsych.ac.uk

    Website: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/

     

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

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• Where can I find out more information about psychosis?

  The resources below provide more information about psychosis. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site

  Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  ^6.11

  Resources

  • Severe Mental Illness (Psychosis): a leaflet for carers and professionals working with people with severe mental illness

    Download the leaflet from the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

     

    Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists

    The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional and educational body for psychiatrists in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

    Address: 17, Belgrave Square, London, SW1X 8PG

    Email: rcpsych@rcpsych.ac.uk

    Website: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/

     

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • What is psychosis?

    Read the leaflet on the Mental Health Care website, developed by the Institute of Psychiatry, the South London and Maudsley NHS Trust and mental health charity Rethink.

    Credit: Institute of Psychiatry, the South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, Rethink

  • Psychosis article

    Read the article on the NHS Direct website.

    Credit: NHS Direct

  • Understanding psychotic experiences

    Read the leaflet on the MIND website.

    Credit: MIND

  • What is psychosis?

    Read the article on the Rethink website.

    Credit: Rethink

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• Where can I find out more information about schizophrenia?

  The resources below provide specialist information on schizophrenia. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  Rethink, Head Office, 5th Floor, Royal London House, 22-25 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1DX, 0845-456 0455 http://www.rethink.org/

  MIND, 15-19, Broadway, London E15 4BQ 0208 519 2122, http://www.mind.org.uk/

  SANE, 1st floor, Cityside House, 40, Adler Street, London E1 1EE  0845 767 8000  http://www.sane.org.uk/

  Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site

  Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  ^6.11

  Resources

  • Schizophrenia leaflet

    Read the leaflet on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • Schizophrenia the key facts

    Download the leaflet from the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

    Credit: Royal College of Psychiatrists

  • Schizophrenia article

    Read the article on the NHS Direct website.

    Credit: NHS Direct

  • Understanding schizophrenia

    Read the leaflet on the MIND website.

    Credit: MIND

  • Your Treatment, Your Choice survey results

    Rethink conducted a survey to collect the views of people who have experienced treatment for schizophrenia. Findings include:

    • Two thirds of people had not been given any choice about which medication to take.
    • Fewer than half the respondents had potential side effects of medication discussed with them.
    • Only 14% of the sample had had Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
    • Fewer than half the respondents had discussed their physical health with their GP or psychiatrist in the last 12 months

    These findings have been included in the full National Institute for Health & Clinical Excellence (NICE) on how schizophrenia should be treated.

    Credit: Antonia Borneo, Senior Policy Officer, Rethink

  • Rethink National Advice Service

    Rethink severe mental illness (formerly National Schizophrenia Fellowship) is the leading charity with information on schizophrenia. Rethink run day services, support services, respite care, advice and help lines, and courses for both people with mental illness and their carers.Rethink are also involved in campaigning and challenging stigma.

    Tel: 0208 974 6814
    Email: advice@rethink.org
    Website: http://www.rethink.org/
    Address: 28 Castle Street, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey, KT1 1SS

    Credit: Rethink

  • Clinical Knowledge Summaries - Schizophrenia

    This guidance is based on the NICE guideline on Schizophrenia (December 2002) and takes into account the full guideline document produced by the National Collaborating Centre for Mental Health (2003). It covers the primary care management of schizophrenia in adults, where the onset of schizophrenia occurred before 60 years of age. Read more at http://www.cks.library.nhs.uk/schizophrenia

    Credit: National Library for Health

  • Guidance on the use of newer (atypical) antipsychotic drugs for the treatment of schizophrenia

    The choice of antipsychotic drug should be made jointly by the individual and the clinician responsible for treatment based on an informed discussion of the relative benefits of the drugs and their side-effect profiles. Download the guidance

    Credit: NICE

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• Where can I find out more information about seasonal affective disorder?

  Use the resources below to find out more information about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We welcome your feedback on resources that you think should be listed here.

  Mental Health Ireland has a great links page on this extensive site

  Your Mental Health Ireland, with a young person’s page as well

  ^{Updated 2.12}

  Resources

  • Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

    Read the leaflet on the MIND website.

    Credit: MIND

  • Seasonal Affective Disorder Association

    The Seasonal Affective Disorder Association is a voluntary organisation and registered charity which informs the public and health professions about SAD and supports and advises sufferers of the illness.
    Address: PO Box 989, Steyning, BN44 3HG
    Website: www.sada.org.uk

    Credit: Seasonal Affective Disorder Association

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