Background: The millennium posed an unknown challenge to mental health services worldwide. In anticipation, contingencies were implemented in preparation for the unexpected impact on psychiatric morbidity.
Results: This study evaluates the impact of the millennium on psychiatric emergency service utilization in the Northern and Southern hemispheres the UK, Nigeria and Australia. Findings did not demonstrate a notable “millennium effect” on mental health services. A number of patients presented psychopathology incorporating millennium themes. A post-Christmas and post-New Year increase in presentation was observed.
Conclusion: There was no change in service needs.
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