In Latvia, Waiting for Mental Health Care Can Take from Days to Months
More people in Latvia are seeking help from mental health specialists, but the number of doctors is not keeping up with demand. Waiting times vary widely, and a long wait can harm people who are already struggling.
A growing number of people in Latvia are turning to mental health specialists, but the number of doctors is not keeping pace with demand. This is the finding of an analytical piece by the Russian-language service of Latvian public media (LSM).
Waiting times vary widely
In Latvia, it is possible to see a specialist within a few days or only after several months. Such a gap means that access to help can differ greatly from one case to another.
Why it matters
For a person who is already feeling unwell because of mental health problems, a long wait can do additional harm. The shortage of specialists is therefore not only a matter of queues, but also of how promptly help reaches those who need it right now.
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