CAMHS stands for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. CAMHS are a specialist NHS services.
They offer assessment and treatment when children and young people have emotional, behavioural or mental health difficulties.
Children and young people and their families can be referred to CAMHS if children are finding it hard to cope with family life, school or the wider world. If these difficulties are too much for family, friends or GPs to help with, CAMHS may be able to assist.
Types of problems CAMHS can help with include violent or angry behaviour, depression, eating difficulties, low self-esteem, anxiety, obsessions or compulsions, sleep problems, self-harming and the effects of abuse or traumatic events. CAMHS can also diagnose and treat serious mental health problems such as bipolar disorder.
How can I get an appointment with CAHMS?
There are different ways to get an appointment with CAMHS. The most common is via your GP, who will listen to your worries and may be able to offer their own advice. If your GP thinks specialist help is needed, your GP can write a letter to CAMHS asking them to consider whether they can support you.
Others who may be able to make a referral to CAMHS include:
The following films and maps may help you to prepare for your first appointment with CAMHS.