It's OK to Ask
Helping you make informed decisions about your care
We want you to feel informed, involved and supported when making decisions about your care.
The best decisions are made together. When you understand your health, treatment options and the support available to you, you are better able to make choices that are right for you.
We encourage service users, carers, families and supporters to ask questions and take an active role in discussions about care and treatment.
Asking questions can help you to:
- Understand your condition and treatment options
- Learn about the benefits and possible risks of treatment
- Explore alternative approaches that may be available
- Think about what is most important to you
- Feel more involved in decisions about your care
- Build confidence and support your recovery
There are no wrong questions. If there is something you do not understand, please ask.
A useful way to structure conversations with healthcare professionals is to use the BRAN approach. BRAN stands for Benefits, Risks, Alternatives and Nothing. These questions can help support shared decision making between you and your healthcare team.
Benefits
What are the benefits of this treatment?
Risks
What are the risks or possible side effects?
Alternatives
Are there any alternative treatments or approaches available?
Nothing
What could happen if I decide not to have treatment at the moment?
Bringing someone with you
You may wish to bring a family member, friend or carer to an appointment. They can help you with remembering important information, asking questions and taking part in discussions about your care and treatment.
You can find trusted information about mental health conditions, treatments and medicines through:
These resources can help you prepare for appointments and support conversations with your healthcare team.
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Click on the image below to download the information leaflet
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Click on the image below to download the easy read leaflet |
Remember – it's OK to ask.