The West Kent & Medway Early Intervention in Psychosis Service

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Hello, my name is Joe and I experienced a psychotic episode a year ago when I was 19, although at the time I did not realise what was happening to me. I recall going out a lot, not sleeping much and not eating properly. I also remember feeling quite paranoid and worried about people knowing who I was. I started locking the doors at home, I felt people were out to kill me and conspiring against me. I know I was very scared and did not want to be seen by anyone. My parents became increasingly concerned about my bizarre behaviour and took me to the local hospital. At this time I had become extremely anxious and remember walking around clutching my heart to protect myself. In the hospital I had a series of tests and physical examinations including a CT scan. I started to hallucinate and thought the television and the radio were talking to me. I stayed in hospital for about three weeks, during which time I met some people who talked to me and supported me. The ward staff were very good too and used distraction strategies to help me feel better. The creative therapy class was really useful. I was then introduced to the Early Intervention Team and my Care Co-ordinator, who came out to see me at home with my family and explained my symptoms in terms of a psychotic episode. She also assisted me and my family in putting together a relapse prevention plan. I now know what signs to look for to help prevent a recurrence which puts me and especially my mum at ease. Without their help and the support from my family I probably wouldn’t be where I am today. Now I have returned to college and I am in my final year of a music technology Diploma. I have a part time job where I have made some new friends and I am saving up for a new guitar. I also enjoy socialising, playing badminton and snooker. I still take anti psychotic medication but it is now a minimal dose. I have become quite disciplined and ensure that I eat healthy and take regular exercise. I think my experience has made me appreciate how precious life is. It was a very frightening experience for me, but also for everyone close to me. Overall, I have come to realise that no matter how bad things are there is always light at the end of the tunnel!! Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) You may have some concern about your care and treatment, but feel unable to speak to our staff providing your care. You may just want some information about local health services. You can contact the confidential Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS). The PALS Team is available to help you with any health difficulties you may have. The PALS Team can be contacted by calling free: 0800 587 6757 (west Kent and Medway), or 0800 783 9972 (east Kent). You can also e-mail: pals@kmpt.nhs.uk 18
Comments on this leaflet If you wish to comment on this leaflet call 01732 520441 or e-mail communications@kmpt.nhs.uk If you want to ask questions about anything to do with your care or the Trust, please ask a member of staff. If you wish to make a complaint or pay a compliment about the service you have received, a leaflet is available to guide you through the process. Please ask a member of staff for a copy KMPT.PI.leaf195 issued October 2012 For more information you can contact: Trust Headquarters, 35 Kingshill Avenue, Kingshill, West Malling, Kent ME19 4AX Tel: 01732 520400 19 Kent & Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust 19
Page 1 and 2: Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care
Page 3 and 4: What is psychosis ‘Psychosis’ i
Page 5 and 6: Symptoms may include… Delusions -
Page 7 and 8: The role of your care co-ordinator
Page 9 and 10: often related to the stage of the p
Page 11 and 12: Illegal street drugs Cannabis, ecst
Page 13 and 14: A relapse prevention plan A relapse
Page 15 and 16: Triggers Think about your past expe
Page 17: Hi, my name is Elizabeth. At the ag

The West Kent & Medway Early Intervention in Psychosis Service

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