Latvians may wait months to see mental health specialists

People in Latvia are increasingly seeking help for mental health problems, but the number of doctors has not kept pace, and waits to see a specialist can range from days to months, LSM reported. Long delays can further worsen the health of people who are already struggling.

Rita, a mother of five whose name has been changed, works as an emergency medical service physician assistant. She said her difficulties began last autumn as tensions in her family grew. Her fear intensified after a colleague in emergency medicine drove a car into the Daugava River.

Rita began experiencing panic attacks, always at home. She described a racing heartbeat and difficulty breathing, despite there being no physical cause. She said she realised she was struggling to manage the needs of her five children.

After working 24-hour shifts, Rita found it difficult to switch back to everyday life. She said the adrenaline of the job had become something she felt she needed, and compared her experience to post-traumatic stress.

Access to specialists varies greatly across Latvia. The Health Ministry sees training more specialists as one way to address the problem. Some people continue to turn to alcohol, while a triage tool is available to help identify the most urgent cases. The report also describes another patient’s experience of a psychiatrist who showed little interest in their case.

Rita learned about the triage questionnaire through social media. The report says people also need opportunities to talk with others who have had similar experiences.