" I am a service user of TWH. I started going when my son’s support worker referred me. I have suffered from mental health problems for more years than I’d like to remember. In fact I can’t remember a time of not having difficulties even from a child. My childhood is probably to blame/contributed towards my now difficulties and problems. Regardless of the reasons I suffer from the most awful illness imaginable, it impacts daily on life and waking minute whether you want it or not. I’m not ready to stand in front of you to talk so that’s why Mandy is reading it.
I have been a member for about 2.5 years. These past two years has had its up and downs but I’ve managed not to end up in the Hadrian Clinic with the support and groups I’ve accessed, which is a major achievement. It’s not easy and not a magic wand but I feel TWH has been excellent in its all entirety, every part of it works and staff are more than friendly. In my experiences normally you’re in the Hadrian Clinic, then AD Service and then left there’s no long term care I just feel crisis management and counselling is what’s offered. TWH gives you understanding of your illness, support around it, a safe environment, friendships, learning and activities. It’s focused around you and your choices, all individual. I feel it’s an organisation which is invaluable to its users. Over the past 2.5 years instead of not functioning and not managing and reaching crisis, with TWH’s help I have been a mum, a carer and discovered myself as a person and an individual. I have learned about my illness, coping strategies and made friends, enjoyed activities and found HOPE when I felt it impossible. So it’s given me a FUTURE instead of wanting an end. "
Jane