"Psychotic episode"

Started worrying profusely and really out of proportion to actual incidents, past and present. Due to working hard in the garden my back became very sore which affected my ability to work in my own garden and also the community gardening I was involved in. I was also very worried about my family and upset dealing with photos and belongings of my mother who had died 4 years earlier.

I started hearing voices, both inside my head and outside telling me how useless I was and I hadn't looked after my mother properly. Also was being told I was going to be executed.

I had an appointment with my Doctor who immediately referred me to the Acute Assessment Centre at Borders General hospital. I underwent two days of tests and X-Ray's and was allowed to go home with a range of medications. I was visited regularly on a daily basis if required by members of staff from Borders Crisis Team. They were exceptionally helpful and friendly and immediately made me feel at ease. I or my husband could phone them at any time which was a great help to us.

I gradually got better through the combination of meetings with the psychiatrist, psychiatric nurses and medication.

I have now been passed onto the Community team and am receiving practical help with moving forward to a future where I am well again.