Sir,
I WATCHED with a heavy heart the story reported on Breakfast TV this morning 14/2/15. Kerry Bentley’s story concerning her daughter Kimberley Bentley, who died after self harming in hospital last year.
This ladies’ story was so familiar. I have had to fight very hard to get a diagnosis for a family member. A treatment plan and a way forward for this family member to literally stay alive let alone have a life.
This fight has consumed my family and myself, something which should be simple and easy. NO ONE LISTENS TO THE FAMILY MEMBERS (THE SILENT WITNESSES).
The family, friends, of mentally ill people witness every day the behaviour and heart breaking incidents endured by those with mental health. I am writting this letter to anyone who will listen. Dont shut out those closest to mentally ill people.
When a mentally ill person goes into crisis THEY ARE UNAWARE THEY ARE IN CRISIS. There is a crisis team and in my bitter experience when called I was told to call 999 or go to A&E.
Why do we have a "crisis team"? Our emergency services are already overstretched.
Why do these services for the mentally ill not deliver when asked?
I am still fighting for my mentally ill family member and I will not stop until the problem is dealt with 100%, however what about all the other people who have no one or someone who does not know what to do?
DIAGNOSIS is key to treatment, and a positive way forward. Getting that diagnosis is hard, frustrating, complicated and to some unobtainable. Why?
I know I am not alone, don’t accept leaflets, don’t accept nothing. Demand the help it is there. The sad thing is you should not have to fight to get it.
Mental health needs to be addressed not just in Thurrock, Essex but nationwide. Before this sorry situation implodes.
Yours
Lynn Carr
