Guidance

Terrorism attacks: mental health check and treatment

NHS mental health screening and treatment programme for those affected by the terrorist attacks.

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The NHS mental health screening and treatment programme, for those affected by the terrorist attacks in Tunisia, Paris and Brussels, has now closed.

However, we want to make sure that everybody whose health may be suffering as a result of a terror attack gets the NHS treatment and support that they need. This includes people who were affected by the attack in Nice. There are mental health treatments available through the NHS to help people deal with the effects of very distressing events.

The NHS Choices pages about trauma explain the types of symptoms people may experience after a traumatic event. The pages also cover what to look out for in people around you, including children. If you have symptoms of being very upset which continue beyond 4 weeks, this may indicate post traumatic stress disorder and it is important to seek help.

If you experience symptoms, we advise you to visit your GP or contact your local improving access to psychological therapies service to be assessed for NHS psychological treatment. Children and young people may also access NHS help by visiting their GP, and schools may be able to provide support or refer them to local services.

You may find it helpful to download the open letter above and take it along with you to help start the conversation about the support you may need.

If you need further information, you can contact us using an online form or telephone 020 7210 4850.

Published 2 March 2016
Last updated 15 December 2016 + show all updates
  1. The NHS mental health screening and treatment programme for those affected by the terrorist attacks in Tunisia, Paris and Brussels has now closed.

  2. Added details and questionnaires for those affected by the terrorist attacks in Paris (2015) and Brussels (2016).

  3. First published.