"Perfect listening skills and patience"

About 18 months ago I had to cease anti depressant medication as it was causing my stomach to bleed.   The GP was struggling to prescribe an alternative medication which wouldn’t have the same outcome and a conversation with another GP led to his referral to the Mental Health Team seeking an answer.   This further led to a phone call from the team and subsequent visit from Claire and colleague.  We had a long chat about my health issues which included depression,  anxiety and stress all exacerbated by family deaths and the fact that my husband had experienced a series of TIAs and small strokes, some constriction to blood vessels in his head.   I have found the resulting changes to his personality and outlook difficult to adjust to.   Although he received advice and some counselling from the GP there seems to be no such service offered to spouses.

It has been very beneficial to explain my difficulties with Claire who has the perfect listening skills and patience to cope with my issues.   A further appointment with Dr. Amin has been valuable and my concerns that I may suffer from ADHD is being investigated.    My son  was diagnosed with ADHD in his late forties following on from his 2 children being diagnosed.   A combination of unburdening  and the medication which has been issued has had a positive effect and I feel extremely lucky and grateful to have had the care and assistance from the Community Mental Health Team almost by default, thank you.