Coping in the emergency department

[Centaured]

Sometimes in mental health crisis's we end up in the emergency department. And that totally ok, being safe is important.
but how do we cope with our crisis while waiting?
What are some helpful strategies you have found useful during your stay in the department?




I often get stuck in the emergency room waiting room overnight due to the fact there is no mental health team 24/7 where I live. I'm really struggling being here tonight. My usual strategies of listening to music isn't really working so I'm wondering if there is anything else I should try. Please note my concentration and attention is limited due to being in crisis. I feel trapped and stuck.
I wish lifeline text was 24/7 coz I could really use someone to talk to. Are there any other online options as I cant really call someone due to the nature of a waiting room.

[Sophie_M]

Dear Centaured,

Thank you for being part of the Beyond Blue Community Forums. We understand that it would have been very difficult to share your feelings here and we think you are so strong for reaching out to our community. We want you to know that things can always improve with the right support, and there is always support available to you. We understand that you feel right now that things might not get better, but they absolutely can. 

We would recommend you call us for support and assistance, even if it is just to talk through how you can access further support. 

Beyond Blue Support Service 1300 22 4636
 

[geoff]

Hi Centaured, I can feel the pain by your brief answers and understand what you are struggling with has left a definite mark on you, and it's something that could be very difficult to discuss with a person who has not had to suffer from anything similar.

I am so sorry this has happened and would like to be one of many people who want to help you through this.

My Best.

Geoff.

[Centaured]

I just spoke to my case manager. She is coming over to see me in the emergency department.

[geoff]

Hello Centaured, thanks, and can I suggest you try and write down, if possible, some points that are difficult to discuss and if you wish, you can hand it over to them, this will help to let them know what has, unfortunately, happened to you.

Uneasy or awkward moments like this can be handled this.

Take care.

Geoff.

[Centaured]

Just updating you all.

I left the emergency department this afternoon so I could go home and get much needed sleep. I slept for a few hours but I've woken really scared after nightmares continue to plague me. I'm so tired but too scared to go back to sleep.

Im in a lot of pain with my disability. It's making things even harder.

Im just gonna curl up and cry for a bit. I promised my case manager is be safe tonight. I intend to keep that.

[geoff]

Hello Centaured, I've just logged on, so I wanted to say, good morning.

If anyone is suffering from any disability, the physical pain makes it so difficult, awkward and how can you explain what else is associated with this, eating, sleeping and moving to another person, not unless they too have experienced similar or are trained in how to counsel these situations.

The disability you are trying to overcome must be horrific, I know that's how we are when something happens to ourselves, that's how I feel.

Please don't be afraid if you really want to open up as I've had plenty of injuries and know deep down this pain you are suffering from, is terrible.

Take care.

Geoff.

[geoff]

Hello Centaured, we just want to see how you are going because it's been a tough period for you and want to keep in contact with you.

Take care.

Geoff.

[Guest_1643]

Hello Centaured,

Here for you to listen whatever you need. It sounds really challenging. I second what Geoff says so beautifully but many of us here have been through the same and are happy to listen.
Are you feeling okay?

Take care,

Sleepy

[Centaured]

Hey geoff, sleepy etc

the crisis has settled down for now.

Ill be ok.

Pain is bad this morning. I dislike the cold. We had our first frost the other day, winter has already set in. Brr

Hope you are ok too.

[Guest_1643]

the cold is a lot now... wow, frost! it sounds like winter has begun where you are!!

Glad to hear you feel a bit better.