Triggering: Frustrated

[Hallelujah]

I'm getting to a point where I'm past caring. I spoke to my doctor, who prescribed Prozac and referred me to the local mental health team. I then had an initial assessment with a woman who I did not like, she just sat and stared and asked questions all matter of fact and I hated it. This was like, 3 weeks ago now and she said she'd pass me on to a therapist but I haven't heard anything.

I want this to go away, I'm back at the docs on friday but its only to talk about the prozac. I've started cutting again and my self esteem has hit rock bottom. I can't stand to look at myself, most days I struggle to even get up and all I want to do is sleep and stay under the covers. I'm so tired of this.

[OMFG!You'reActuallySmart!]

I don't know exactly how the UK mental health system works but in general, you do get bounced around and there's a general lack of communication in that doctors generally speak to doctors and therapists generally speak to therapists. Clients/patients are also ordered in terms of priority. If you've started self-harming that does put you at a higher priority especially if it relates to your condition.

I'm sure the doctor will tell you this and you've heard it before but you will not feel the effects of Prozac immediately. On average, it takes 2-3 weeks for you to feel the effects and this is due to how the medication itself works. Tell the doctor how you feel, lack of therapy and the self-harm. From the sounds of it, you were put on a waiting list that's ordered chronologically and by severity. The doctor probably won't know how long you'll have to wait but if the doctor was told you are receiving therapy (i.e. incorrect information), then they'll look into it. Alternatively, the doctor may want you to wait the 2-3 weeks for the effects of Prozac to be felt so you can see the therapist when you're medicated and more stable. Many psychiatrists use this plan of action but usually don't tell the patient ahead of time.

[Hallelujah]

Sorry for the second post so soon, but would you believe I actually got the referral letter today in the post? Included a copy of my assessment....quite upsetting. Issue solved, sorry for being a nuisance. This can be closed, please.

[*Jen*]

I will close this for you Jo like requested.