Last week I made the decision to pay for private psychiatric help.
I don’t have a great deal of money, being a single parent on disability isn’t exactly living the life of the rich and famous.
Most of my pennies are spoken for weekly, and with the rising cost of living today, our money doesn’t go very far.
I decided that my mental health had reached a point that intervention was needed, and I contacted my local mental health crisis team.
This was 4 months ago, and I am still waiting for urgent help.
Having paid into the NHS all of my life, I am at the end of a very long line of other people just like me, waiting for the same thing.
The NHS mental health service has broken, it has become so stretched that it has finally snapped under the strain. A number of NHS and other psychiatrists have set up a private clinic in an effort to take the strain, and provide the much needed mental health support, at a price.
I’m not quite sure how I came across this website but it had me intrigued. For only £350 I could have an hour consultation, a diagnosis and treatment plan, all recognised by the NHS, and within a few days.
After a long and informative chat with the customer helpline, I actually booked an appointment, and waited patiently for the next 4 days until it arrived.
My appointment was on a secure weblink via a patients portal online, you are given a password to enter your virtual room, where you will meet your chosen psychiatrist.
That night although my anxiety was through the roof, I sat comfortably on my bed, with my PJ’s on, and up popped the psychiatrist on my MacBook screen.
This is a novelty for a 50 year old recluse, who didn’t even own a computer a few months ago.
I felt so comfortable, at ease, and the doctor was fantastic, Dr Axelby was my choice, she was professional, understanding, compassionate and put me at great ease.
Our 50 minute appointment turned into nearly 90 minutes at no extra cost to myself, and I was given a diagnosis of Complex PTSD.
I have been under psychiatric services since early childhood with no diagnosis, it has only taken £350, 1 doctor, and 90 minutes to finally give me the help that I’ve been asking for for over 40 years.
Our mental health is just as important as our physical health. You cannot put a price on happiness.
So who benefits from this innovative idea ?
A. The Psychiatrist, she gets the chance to help people and earn an income at the same time.
B. The National Health Service, who are buckling under so much pressure from mental health related illnesses.
And last but by no means least..
C. The patient, Me, I may be lighter in pocket, but I am also much lighter in my mind and spirit. I have answers to some of the questions that I have been asking all of my life.
How much would you be willing to pay for Happiness ?
I consider it money well spent.
Poor Mental Health can be a Killer.. why not take care of yours today.
love Betty x
WELCOME TO MY INNER SANCTUARY 