I had an unusual and heart warming experience of NHS services as someone who is often judged through the lens of a mental health diagnosis given to me by psychiatry which often results in professionals within NHS regardless of discipline making assumptions on my character.
This was from a physiotherapist within the pain management clinic who treated me with respect and dignity that allowed me to see my strengths and abilities to manage my chronic pain condition. The physiotherapist treated me with a holistic approach, taking into consideration all areas of my life. She showed compassion and empathy for the difficulties I experience at the same time as encouraging me to use my own knowledge and determination to manage my lifestyle to in a way that means I can live my life to my fullest potential despite the pain condition I have.
Acceptance of a chronic pain condition can be a difficult journey but through the positive reinforcement of my own resilience and coping strategies by this physiotherapist, it has enable me to take control and personal responsibility for believing in my own abilities to manage this. This is the most empowering approach I believe any professional can offer as this strength based ethos has allowed me to maintain my autonomy and agency for my own wellbeing. I must make it clear that this approach also involved much support and education related to my condition and I feel the physiotherapist worked alongside me in this process.
I did not have much input in terms of hours/sessions however, this was very appreciated by me as the honesty and authenticity of the physiotherapist about my condition meant for me, that I could move forward and build on the strategies I already possess.
I would like to thank the physiotherapist, C, for your input and consistent respect and validation of my experience. To be seen as a whole person where your approach was not being overshadowed with my mental health diagnosis was invaluable to me. Your patience, as I struggled with accepting my condition and exploration through our conversations is commendable to you. I hope others have the opportunity to benefit from your approach as I have.
To be treated in a holistic way is vital for anyone I think that receives treatment of any kind and I hope other professionals are able to learn from your approach to anyone receiving treatment in any health setting.
Thank you so much for your approach, respect, authenticity and understanding. I will take this forward in my own management of my pain condition.
Seeing the whole me