5. Aug, 2013

Cry for help!

I remember walking into my first ever appointment with my Psychiatrist, I had no idea what to expect! What I do recall was that I was pretty much in major panic mode. Chest so constricted I could hardly gasp for air, palms sweaty, heart pounding so hard it was almost drowning out her "hello, come in and sit down". I was desperate and this visit was my final "cry for help"!

She was not what I expected, because sitting before me was this smartly dressed, slim, classy, stunningly beautiful woman. She certainly wasn't the kind of person I had envisaged would enjoy spending her time in Psyche wards dealing with severely mentally disturbed and often violent people. I couldn't help feeling a little intimidated by her.

I see her regularly and she has undoubtedly saved my life on several occasions!

I have been her patient for three and a half years and at each appointment we work on building an amazing trusting relationship referred to as the "therapeutic alliance". This alliance is the basis for all progress in therapy. Without this you will never get what you need from this valuable partnership.

My doctor displays all the great qualities needed, reliability, empathy, kindness, and most of all trust. Trust is not one of my strong points so cementing our bond is a priority in our therapy sessions.

I have experienced a dysfunctional alliance with another mental health worker and now realise the importance of having a great health care professional. The relationship is everything!

I can't write about my carers without expressing a heartfelt thank you to both my Doctor and Mental Health nurse who have shadowed me every step of the way! You are both truly "life savingly " wonderful!