I called the Ruralink number (given to me by my local mental health service) while on holiday in a metro area. I asked to be put through to the local community mental health services as this was what was listed on the website as being the option during business hours. I waited 20 minutes to talk to someone as most staff were busy. I felt the person I talked to had no compassion at all and had poor knowledge of bipolar disorder and hypomanic episodes. They tried to tell me my hypomanic symptoms were an anxiety attack. I hung up as the call was causing me to feel worse.
Another staff member later called me back, I felt they also provided poor support. What I believe should have happened is both staff members should have acknowledged my concerns were outside their expertise, as in my opinion they clearly were. My private Psychiatrist (who only works one day a week so I was unable to contact them) acknowledged that my symptoms were part of a hypomanic episode so as I understand it the staff member who reported this was an anxiety attack was very, very wrong.
"Lack of support and staff knowledge"
About: MHERL - Mental Health Emergency Response Line MHERL - Mental Health Emergency Response Line Bentley 6102
Posted by herculesem84 (as ),
Do you have a similar story to tell?
Tell your story & make a difference ››
Responses
See more responses from Lesley Bennett