"Crisis Resolution Team"

They helped me to live.

3/4 years ago I developed panic attacks (did not kow what they were for a very long time). The problem with mine was my heart would beat so fast I would need hospital treatment in the resuscitation room and betablockers. I had every test known to man which revealed there was nothing physically wrong with me.

I was then told I would see a specialist but my details were lost for a year. My g. p would write letters but I would not hear anything. Eventually I had an appointment to see a cardiac psychologist who helped me for 6 weeks. He told me about panic attacks and what happens physically and mentally, however it seems it was too late, I was referred for CBT quite quickly which I attended for many weeks. The patterns shifted, although I was still having panic attacks, I suddenly became depressed. Over a few weeks I started to plan my suicide. I was putting my affairs in order and planning my funeral. I told my CBT counsellor this and she referred me to the Crisis Resolution Team who were at my door quicker than I can say "I need help".

I saw a doctor and 2 psychiatric nurses who assessed me and took into account my own personal opinions about hospitalisation and medication. They agreed that I could stay at home and support me through daily visits for a fortnight without medication. They did this and my imminent suicide became further and further from my mind. Still with the realisation I was depressed, they referred me to the psychological therapies department where I spent a year talking.

The fast response I received from the crisis resolution team was exceptional. I felt really cared for but most importantly I was treated with respect and dignity. Medication was not forced on me and they gave me time and patience. They referred me with speed to the appropriate departments and followed up with phone calls and letters afterwards. For the first time in a long time I did not feel alone.

I honestly could not thank them enough. I completed my degree and I now own my own business with realistic aims, taking each day as it comes.