"Inadequate Mental Health Services"

I have spent three frustrating years trying to help my young daughter access NHS services, all to little effect. I empathise greatly with another contributor who recently shared their story on Care Opinion (similar experience with same health board) because I have found a serious lack of empathy and compassion in the NHS.

When my young daughter was suicidal she was told no one had time to see her and no one initially made any helpful suggestions. (by the Innistaigh service).

She was spoken to without compassion when she became distressed having been refused any therapy in conjunction with her medication. (by the Shawpark service).

My daughter was given medication promptly but no early intensive intervention, no care plan and no talking/ psychological therapy.

It feels as though the Scottish government does not see the value in early intensive therapy in conjunction with drugs as surely this would be much more effective from a patient and monetary point of view? Although mental health services have had additional funding, in my experience, staff seem jaded, overworked, under-funded and quite unable to offer adequate support.

My previously bubbly, clever daughter has been deprived of years of education and often feels despair at the lack of caring professional help that she needs and is entitled to. She feels disheartened and distressed and I and her family often wonder where to turn next for help. In our experience the mental health service has not been person-centred or recovery focused and has failed her.

Charitable MH services in Glasgow have been marvelous, SAMH for advice, GAMH for practical help and Princes Trust for a multi-layered 12 week course offering routine, encouragement, raising of self-esteem and sensible practical help all dished out with holistic interest and kindness – I think they could teach the NHS a thing or two!

Please let us be advocates for those who, through illness, can’t speak for themselves.