What should I do in case of psychological or emotional problem while in the Algarve?

In recent years, the incidence of psychological and emotional problems has been increasing considerably, both worldwide and in Portugal.

By Advertiser, in Health, Algarve · 06 Jun 2025, 13:01 · 0 Comments

Several factors may contribute to this significant rise, such as increased work-related stress issues, the modern lifestyle and the effects of social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, among other causes.

In recent years, the Algarve has been expanding its clinical response in terms of Mental Health Services, with a growing number of Mental Health Professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, and occupational therapists) working within the National Health Service (Serviço Nacional de Saúde - SNS) and in Private Healthcare Units.

The National Health Service in the Algarve offers a wide range of General and Mental Health services for both residents and tourists in the region, through hospitals, health centers, and permanent care Units. Private Healthcare Units, through private hospitals, permanent care units, and private medical clinics also provide General and Mental Health care.

Who needs psychological care and what to do?

As with any medical condition, Mental Health issues can vary in severity and require different medical responses.

In the case of severe psychological emergencies, such as suicidal ideation, very serious behavioral changes or a significant worsening of previous psychological symptoms, patients should go to the Emergency Services of the National Health Service (either Faro Hospital or Portimão Hospital). If the patient is unable or unwilling to go, you should immediately call the Portuguese emergency medical number (112) and follow the provided instructions.
In the case of severe but non-emergency psychological situations, patients should schedule a Psychiatry Consultation with a psychiatrist as soon as possible or contact their personal psychiatrist, if they are already being followed.
In the case of moderate or mild psychological issues, patients should schedule a Psychiatry Consultation with a psychiatrist, when possible, book an appointment with their Family Doctor or contact their personal psychiatrist.

What can happen?

In cases of severe psychological emergencies, after clinical assessment and immediate treatment by a psychiatrist in the Emergency Service, three outcomes are possible: voluntary hospitalisation, involuntary hospitalisation (against the patient’s will and with notification to the Portuguese Public Prosecutor’s Office), or discharge with a defined therapeutic plan.
In cases of severe but non-emergency psychological situationsafter clinical assessment by a psychiatrist during a psychiatry consultation or after contact with their personal psychiatrist, a therapeutic plan will be established, involving psychopharmacological medication, psychological treatment or a biopsychosocial rehabilitation plan. Severe cases may require hospitalisation and should be redirected to the Emergency Services (Faro Hospital or Portimão Hospital).
In cases of moderate or mild psychological situations

After clinical assessment by a psychiatrist during a psychiatry consultation or a consultation with a Family Doctor, a therapeutic plan may be established involving psychopharmacological medication or psychological treatment.

Always remember that Mental Health is one of the main components of your health and is a guarantee of well-being and quality of life.