"The power of listening"

I wanted to write and highlight a couple of incidents I’ve had with A&E recently and say thank you. I’ve had a couple of nights when my mental health has been incredibly overwhelming and, a few A&E nurses in particular have been outstanding!! Senior staff nurses Jenny and Vicki have known me a long time and, their compassion and non judgmental approach with me has not gone unnoticed. 

My most recent attendance, I was seen by one of the staff nurses in triage and, I think her name was Isla. She was so patient with me. She took the time to listen and made me feel like my feelings mattered when I was feeling very upset and very overwhelmed. 

The ability to care costs absolutely nothing and, as well from the receptionist who know me well and register me quickly with very little questions when I’m struggling, means more than they probably realise and, it really is appreciated. 

A&E is a far from easy or ideal place to be in a mental health crisis but, I am grateful for the nurses who are mindful of the power of listening and the ability to be compassionate as, sometimes, that’s all that’s needed. 

Please keep up the amazing work you do, from reception to the nurses, medics and the porters, you make a very stressful time a lot easier to deal with and I’m so grateful.