Topic Tuesday: What would you say to public policy makers?

There is a major problem accessing care for physical health co morbidities when there is a mental health problem, and when people are seriously phsycaially ill the mental health team refuse treatment because the person is at risk of dying.

I was seriosuly suicidal at one point at serious risk of harm from suicide and was refused all treatment because of the anoreixa which the mental heaolth team said they couldnt manage the eating disorder on a metnal health unit. I was refused treatment for my anorexia becuase I was suicidal, so at my worst I was sent home with nothing, and passing out on the floor about to go into a low blood glucose coma, totally unable to do anything when I was so physically unwell.

I think the statement is fine, but I don't know where I'd go with the request. In some instances, an attempt at suicide is often done impulsively and no amount of peer support is going to change that. Even getting some people to engage with a peer support working would be difficult.

Thanks @Ellie for your thoughts on the topic of Suicide Prevention and Support

Has anyone else have thoughts on that?

We have about 15 mins left until the 'live' session is over. However, this discussion topic will be open until Friday.

So just to ensure I get all the questions out there, lets look at the last topic. Again, please don't feel rushed to answer.

Education for carers

People who care for or about a person with a severe mental illness have long highlighted the need for adequate education and support to maintain this vital role as well as the ordinary functions of family and other valued relationships

Request

We want you to ensure that funding for regular, adequate peer education for families is available in a variety of formats that suits the circumstances of individuals and families. These options should include on-line education, forums which offer support as well as traditional classroom style peer education

Tardive Dyskensia-involuntary movement caused by atipsychotics-tick twitches trembles and the like-also restlessness. It can be quite severe

I can't see any reason to change that. Of course, it's my personal opinion only.

would need to be well trained peer support, supported by professionals.

I was offered zero support post suicide attempts, was sent home, told to follow up with my gp, who sent me back to emergency saying i was suicidal and I needed to be admitted, but was sent back to my gp. I got bored playing ping pong between the gp and emergency and took several other overdoses and was still offered zero treatment or services.

We have a long way to go