"Let down by mental health service and GP"

My son was experiencing mental health problems.

After encouragement and reassurance to seek help, he contacted his GP. Was referred for an assessment in Nov 2011. Autism was suspected, and so after assessment, we were advised it can be few months before diagnosis was confirmed.

During this time, and for months to follow, my son was feeling unable to cope and in distress due to his mental illness. GP advised we have to wait until results of autism report, and offered anti-depressants.

Months went on, still no response. Made numerous calls as new assessment could not be conducted until report was done. The staff I spoke with were rude and unhelpful. We gave up waiting and my son was supported by family. My son stated 'they don't care', and sadly I felt he was right.

I made a written complaint stating that here was a young adult's first experience of mental health services and he has now lost faith. So much for their millions of pounds spent on mental health campaigns urging people to seek help.

The report concluded he did not have autism. My son was offered numerous appts 7 months later, but could not go through the process at that time.

We changed GP and agreed to seek help. Now waiting for an appointment with a psychiatrist. GPs are first point of call and are the gateway to mental health services so I feel its their responsibility to act as the care provider. My son was lucky to have a supportive family, sadly not everyone does.

Mental health services need to improve as some people cannot wait for appts.