Over the last couple of years, I have come to A&E due to suicide attempts.
My overall experiences have been quite poor and left me feeling worse off than helped.
During my time at A&E i have
- had to deal with quite abrupt and rude triage nurses
- questioned as to why i had decided/bothered to come to A&E
- listened to loud conversations occuring close to my bed about the incidents, my health and appearance adding to my shame.
- been guilt tripped..with a doctor making me promise not to overdose again if he discharged me as he would get into trouble
- discharged on more than one occasion without receiving mental health support. On one occasion my GP was sent a letter stating that that i had refused help at the hospital or later from the mental health services - this was untrue - no mental health team member available and no offsite support offered
I've been told to head to the hospital if I was feeling suicidal, but based on my experiences I dont feel able to. There have been a couple of times where the thought of how I'd be treated prevented me from going when I should have. I know that NHS staff are stressed and stretched but better support/training for dealing with mental health may save a life and reduce future burden on resources.
-
"Poor mental health support"
About: Southampton General Hospital Southampton General Hospital Southampton SO16 6YD
Posted by Tob2018 (as ),
Do you have a similar story to tell?
Tell your story & make a difference ››
Responses
See more responses from Southampton General Hospital