When I went to the CMHT where I used to live and was essentially told that they didn't believe me and to 'get over it' and that 'my act wasn't fooling anybody' I went back to my GP who refered me there and he did the formal complaint and wrote a letter to the person who saw me.
So maybe try going that route? Through the person who refered you to the mental health service?
My partner has been through a formal complaints procedure with my support and I can let you know what happened exactly [if you'd like] but you probably wont like what I have to say.
It basically depends on who assesses the complaint.
Yes. I made a formal complaint about my psychiatrist who made me cry after telling me some very hurtful and untrue things. He told me I was a burden on my family (when he never even spoke to them) and that I was sinning in the eyes of god (he is not religious but he knew I was) and stuff like that.
I can't remember who I addressed it to now, probably the manager of the CMHT or something, but just wrote down everything that was said, how it made me feel, and that I wanted a new psychiatrist. My dad wrote in also.
They denied it, obviously, said I misinterpreted what was said. But at least I changed psychiatrists.
Isn’t it funny how day by day nothing changes but when you look back, everything is different…
you once called your brain a hard drive, well say hello to the virus.
Yes i did about ten years or so ago when i still felt up to fighting for my care when i was in a totally different location to where i am now.
Not a good experience for me at all.In fact some of their actions and reactions to my complaint still trigger me a lot to this day.
i cant remember how i complained given it was around ten years ago but i think the NHS have a set out procedure and i went through this.
i received a lot of very nasty and hurtful letters back and the relationship with my team deteroiated much much further.
But im sure someone may have had positive outcomes from a complaint as well so worth doing but for me the whole thing just ended up destroying me more because of how i was further treated badly when already in great distress.
i hope you can get this sorted somehow.Good luck.
Sorry this reply was probably useless and not quite what you wanted.
Best wishes.
xx xx
PS If you do make a complaint i would consider getting some support from PALS or an advocate before you do it. This should help ensure more you are listened to, heard and respected. i didnt do this at the time and now i wonder if it may have changed the outcome for me even if only by a tiny bit. Good luck.
i do not always manage to be around but i wish you all the very best - love and luck to you all!
Thank you, everyone - I'm sorry you've all had such difficulties >.<
I don't really see how things can get worse between me & my team.. my mental state has been deteriorating, my lecturers, friends, family members have all noticed. I've complained to the actual CMHT (Local Resolution, according to the Complaints Procedure leaflet?) - nothing was done.
I have requested to see a different psych &/or careco several times - I'm not allowed. I've spoken to my GP about it - she's unwilling to get involved because my psych sent her an angry letter in the past when she referred me to the ED services when he refused to do anything about my ED. I'm not allowed to ask for any extra support from voluntary organizations.
My family don't think I'm going to be okay without any kind of involvement from anyone but I think I'm going to have to override them & discharge myself.
Last edited by Keyboard Warrior : 07-04-2011 at 09:55 PM.
Reason: deleted out the whining.
It sounds like you are not being treated with respect. unfortunately with the health care system its exactly that... a system. and so long as their patients seem to be following procedure, the workers dont get in to trouble.
its horrible. I have made formal complaints about the care i have received, it doesnt always go well.. infact it never really has but i wouldnt change the fact i stood up for my rights. They have to listen and at least try to address the issue.
i would suggest writing some letters to the people in charge of your care explaining the situation and outlining exactly how you have been treated, why you think it is unfair and a possible solution (if you feel up to it).
They will need to write back or at least call you that way.
I hope it gets worked out, if i can help any more just let me know xx
Yes, you have the right to see a different psychiatrist. You should get in contact with PALS or an advocate as they should not be treating you like that.
Isn’t it funny how day by day nothing changes but when you look back, everything is different…
you once called your brain a hard drive, well say hello to the virus.
The reason I'm not allowed a second opinion, or to see a different psychiatrist or careco... is because I "have" borderline personality disorder. Literally what my psych said. There's no point in me seeking help, because my personality makes it impossible for me to work with or to get on with people.
What? No... it doesn't make it impossible. It can make it feel more raw, and more uncomfortable, and maybe even more challenging at times. But no, having difficulties in relationships actually means you need to practice in relationship to heal.
That, is the biggest cop out and load of bullshit I have ever heard [well, almost!]
It maybe that it is harder to create a positive and productive working relationship, but its not even close to 'impossible'!
Have you ever contacted PALS? I have heard from other people that they have been helpful and supportive. Can you also print off the NICE guidelines and make a formal complaint quoting their guidelines and [make a formal request for your CMHT/assessment notes] and include their conclusion and reasoning.
If there is anything I can help with in regards to making a complaint, do PM me, I'd be more than happy to help you fight this absurd decision based on nothing but ignorance.
