topic Navigating hospital process in Treatments, health professionals and therapies

Navigating hospital process

Baron_sherry — Tue, 19 Apr 2016 04:01:14 GMT

Hi I'm having a very rough patch.

Longtime sufferer of depression, anxiety. Diagnosed bipolar 10 yrs, and recently complex trauma. Have had a number of bad episodes over last 3 months but worst this weekend. Fallen apart.

Feel so affraid of everything, overwhelmed and petrified to point of confusion. Not coping with any stresses, everything sets me off, crying for 3 days in between sedation, thoughts of self harm and suicide is invading my brain like a swarm.

Living in bedroom. I have a beautiful toddler who is confused and I am so worried my mental health is having detrimental affect on him. Partner is so supportive but is at loss as to how to help. She's under great strain too. My worry about them is not helping.

Psychologist has recommended respite in hospital. Never navigated this hospital thing before.

I have restricted psych on private insurance, live in Melbourne. Unsure of options. Any advice on expected expenses or support recommendations, hospital experiences? Are there alternative s to hospital?

Also terrified on what to tell work as I think I'll have to take the week off. Financial pressures I'm the breadwinner.

Where to start when feeling so weird?

Thank you

Baron

Navigating hospital process

pipsy — Tue, 19 Apr 2016 04:14:47 GMT

Hi B.S. Temporary respite care might be the best option for you at the moment. Maybe a visit to your Dr to discuss respite and the benefits. I think you can stay for about a week, give or take. You are under a terrific strain with everything that's happening and taking a week to basically have a breath-a might be just the ticket. I think with respite you have the option to stay or go home each night (don't quote me though). I think you need a Dr's referral for respite, but there are people there who would be willing to listen and guide. I would just ask your boss for a week off due to personal problems. Whether you would be paid is something you would have to talk to your boss about.

Hope this has helped you, somewhat.

Lynda.

Navigating hospital process

Baron_sherry — Tue, 19 Apr 2016 06:59:37 GMT

Thanks Lynda. I've got a GP appointment lined up tomorrow.