"SHSC Psychiatric Liaison"

Following an overdose and an admission to resus and the acute medical unit I saw Psych Liaison once medically stable.

They checked with me at the beginning that I understood that they couldn't really provide care but could listen and make recommendations and a report. I think this was really important as it helps make better use of the service if service users go in not expecting that liaison can change the world for them. They apologised for having to wear PPE (I had to too) and we had a little laugh about the cumbersome nature of it which helped.

I felt very listened to, understood and validated. The staff did know me historically and pointed out particular aspects about this current presentation (e.g. that it was unusual for me to do this nowadays) that helped me realise that they understood where I was at mentally. They also talked about positives in my life without making me feel guilty or like I "shouldn't be unhappy". They didn't make empty promises but did discuss what maybe needed to happen in terms of my care being reviewed in the community teams and who might need to be involved and said that they would include that in their recommendations. It doesn't make it OK that things elsewhere in my care are leaving me with significant unmet needs but I really appreciated someone listening and knowing me and being totally honest and transparent about the situation. Thank you and well done.