Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 January 2014
820. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health if he will clarify the emergency mental health services available during the Christmas and new year season for an adult who is under enormous stress and possibly suicidal. [1067/14]
View answerWhere there are symptoms of depression or suicidal behaviour, the most appropriate course is to advise the individual to seek help from their GP, who can then make a referral to other services such as the mental health or addiction services, if the suicidal behaviour is drug or alcohol related. In an emergency the individual should be referred or taken to the nearest hospital emergency department for a medical assessment, treatment and if necessary referred to other services.
