How to make the most of my discharge

[Mrs Sam]

I'm being discharged from the CMHT on Friday. I was wondering what people found helped prevent relapse. Also what questions should I ask my care coordinator? I already have a list but others would be good. This is the first time I'm out of the system totally in 13 years and I don't want go bounce back to them.

I just want to make the most of the opportunity to try be normal I guess.

[Epicene]

I think this is a very individual thing and your questions will vary depending upon the input you've received. However, if you're on meds it could be worth clarifying how much leeway your GP has in monitoring/altering this. I also think that although you're keen to move forwards, it is important to have some kind of safety net. Perhaps you could find out about a crisis contact or if there could be a quicker route to re-referral if necessary.

Best of luck!

[Mrs Sam]

My questions are mostly related to if I need to be referred back which seems quite negative but I need to know. I also want to ask if she has any advice for managing my anxiety day to day and for getting out of the house alone.

Im quite nervous but more about the fact I might say something wrong or cry or something and make it seem like I'm feeling abandoned because I'm not but I want to be clear that I'm not ok either.

[sunshine100]

I was discharged earlier this year, I think knowing that a discharge doesn't mean they're 'abandoning' you (I get it, don't worry!) is the main thing. If they don't volunteer that, ask them to confirm it. We all need to hear it.

A discharge isn't forever, they're still there. Your GP is still there. And the crisis team are there if you need them.

Take it one day at a time, just enjoy the moment. Enjoy feeling a bit better :)

One question that bothered me but I didn't think about at the time was med changes, who's in charge? Will I get called in? Or do I need to be the driving force?

[Mrs Sam]

Thanks. I'm currently not on meds so it's not an issue right now.

Also my appt has been cancelled so no idea when I'm actually going to be discharged.

[Mrs Sam]

Appt rearranged for 12th July. Well for now...