"It was definitely an experience"

Before going to Leigh House, I was terrified because I didn't know what to expect at all. But, the support and care I received from the staff at Leigh House was exceptional! I was an informal patient at Leigh House for almost three months, which seems like a long time but it went so quickly. Although it was difficult to be away from home for so long, the facilities in the hospital are designed in a way to make you feel comfortable and at ease. The bedrooms are nicely furnished and you are given an opportunity to customise it and make it your own. Although there were times whilst inpatient that weren't all great, incidents were handled well and I can say that psychiatric hospitalisation saved my life. Being in hospital provides a safer place for people that need that more intensive help and support - this was given through being offered numerous different therapies and care plans suited to you as a patient. However, I believe more thorough checks should have been made on each individual patient to prevent certain behaviours and patient requests regarding their care should have been discussed in more detail. As soon as you are admitted to Leigh House, it's all about working towards being discharged which is scary at first but done to motivate each person. When I was a patient, I really enjoyed visiting the art room and doing physical activity. There are two lounges in Leigh House which is where everyone socialises regularly, we always played card games and there was always a jigsaw on the go! There was always a lot of laughing and joking going on with other patients, it was like having a second family! All of the patients were very understanding towards each other (most of the time).It was nice to be with people that can empathise with your situation, I believe I have made friends for life. Overall I think my stay at Leigh House was a worthwhile one. I can't do anything but sing the praises of those who work in Leigh House without them or the help they gave me, I wouldn't be in the place I am today. It's now been over two months since I've been discharged and although it has been tough, I now equipped with knowledge and skills to combat my mental illness. Being admitted to an adolescent psychiatric unit feels like you've hit rock bottom - but from there the only way is up!