Dear Anon2020
This is terrible. I’m sorry I can’t reassure you. I do emphasise with you completely.
I think when they self harm it’s because the emotional pain becomes too much to bear, they are overwhelmed and they have to inflict physical pain as a distraction. The momentarily feel relief, though it’s short lived. It’s a dreadful, damaging, vicious cycle.
Once when my son was in the full throws of a psychotic episode he set fire to
his hands.
I took him to the hospital. We waited about an hour to be seen. He was given an IV antibiotic and his hands were dressed by a nurse. We waited to speak to a Dr. about his mental health and addictions. There was nothing the Dr could do. I wanted my son to be admitted and for a psychiatrist to section him. We were told that his life wasn’t in danger and his injuries would eventually heal. I argued that he was a danger to himself. The Dr disagreed. We were sent away.
I don’t blame the Drs. Their hands are tied by bureaucracy – ie the Goverment. I thank the nurse for tending to his wounds and administrating the antibiotic which stopped any infection from destroying his hands further. The people who work in the NHS are mostly angles. They do what they can and more. A few weeks ago my son was admitted for emergency surgery. On numerous other occasions they have resuscitated him after overdose. Patched up wounds and more. I am so grateful to the people who work for the NHS. However, I agree entirely that there is no budget or near enough facilities or help for the mentally ill or the severely addicted. The NHS is on its knees. What is happening to your brother is neglect. I hope they admit him this time.
Back to my own story, sorry. My son had his own flat at the time so I went home with him and stayed there for a few days to keep an eye on him and change his dressings. In amongst my grief it was also a nice time for me as I was able to nurse him and feed him and we talked , shared memories, hugged and watched films on TV.
It wasn’t too long after this that my son changed from smoking heroin to injecting it.
I don’t want to frighten you or anyone who might read this. My son tried to hang himself. He was saved and taken to hospital. The Dr there wanted to discharge him after one night. I managed to convince a psychiatrist to sanction him. He was taken to a place to be assessed. The relief I felt me was immense. My son was alive and he would be safe and be helped. Three days later he was discharged. “ The patient is not perceived as a danger to himself or others “ He was offered antidepressants with no aftercare they let him walk out without even letting his family know. He phoned and my mother took him in for as long as she was able to cope.
I’m so sorry you have to go through this with your brother. I am sorry you are both suffering. I am sorry we are all struggling.
I have no answers or solution. Mental health needs a bigger platform . Society needs to band together and stand up for what’s right.
No one is immune anymore and this pandemic isn’t helping. More people are showing signs.
Anon200, You need to go and speak to your GP. They will give you a sick note for work. They will help YOU . You can’t do this on your own anymore. You need a break. You deserve to be at home where you can concentrate on your studies and rest in between supporting your family. There is help available for you. You will be offered counselling. Speak to someone at the University should you need extra support regarding your studies. Get in touch with the Social Security if your income is affected.
You clearly love your brother and want him well again, but you are a young woman with a bright future ahead of you and you might need some extra help at this time.
I hope you are gonna be ok.
Ivy x