New therapist

[Dimity]

Sorry to hear about your back pain @Patches59 . I had a lumbar back MRI. Bulging discs and 4 other problems. It's improved a lot, the sciatica used to be crippling at times.

I remember the months and years my parents passed but not the dates. Their birthdays were early January.  My brothers never told me what happened to their ashes. So I have to remember them in life. They were high achievers but the family was very dysfunctional. 

Last time I checked the long range forecast Christmas in Melbourne was meant to be overcast and about 23.

[Patches59]

I’m feeling flat, frustrated and annoyed

Local gp referred me to local clinic where there are variety of psychiatrics.  Phoned them today to be advised they are not taking any new patients and that only psychiatrics with specialised area of PTSD that might be taking new patients are more than 1hr drive from me.

so much for reaching out to get help 

[Dimity]

Your feelings are understandable @Patches59 . Are you open to online consultations via Zoom? You might be able to see someone via Telehealth.

My psychiatrist keeps an eye on me through telephone catchups. I haven't seen him since Covid lockdowns. I've mentioned trauma to him but we haven't really discussed it, he mostly monitors me for bipolar. It's only in the last 12 months I've been trying to address my long-standing issues through seeing a psychologist. 

The new counsellor - a social worker - finally got back to me and I'll see her for the first time in a day or two.  

Blue Knot can suggest psychologists, I'm not sure about psychiatrists. It might be worth asking them.

[Patches59]

Telehealth ie phone appointments - no

Appointments via zoom or similar - definitely an option.

I want new opinion for my meds which is mainly what the referral mentions.  Both my local dr plus psychologist has said nothing wrong with what I take but there are other meds, one might be more beneficial for me.

my local dr is great plus has life experience herself.  She said she understands my request for review of my meds, found schema therapy helpful.  

in between loosing power today twice I’ve done some research on few different sites.  Not including psychiatrist Ive already seen, they might be one psychiatrist who does face to face taking new patients.  

it shouldn’t be this difficult.  Makes no sense to me to put a person on meds for MH issues and have no ongoing reviews after 1yr

[Patches59]

That’s great news @Dimity  about the Social Worker getting in touch with you and making an appointment so quickly. 🙂

[Dimity]

Sorry you had blackouts yesterday @Patches59 . At least the weather was better today.

I met the social worker today. I shared a lot so hopefully we can move forwards.  I also contacted one of the support workers who helped me before my first cataract operation to see if she can help again.

Have you contacted the psychiatrist you identified? Fingers crossed they're available and can help.

I tried crushing a tablet into a little soft food for Tiger tonight but he refused it. I've left it out in case he goes back to it.  

[Dimity]

I hope you enjoyed Christmas and NewYear @Patches59 although I know it's a difficult time for you. 

[Patches59]

@Dimity not in a good place and haven’t been for weeks.  Head full of good and bad memories from decades all getting jumbled up. Don’t know how to be anything except lost, sad and lonely.  Physically and mentally exhausted

[tyme]

Awww @Patches59 , I'm so sorry you are sitting with these thoughts. Please know I'm here if you need anything.

Sometimes our bodies tend to confuse and mix thoughts... I wonder if it is our body's way of coping? [Even if it doesn't feel like 'coping']

Hugs

[Dimity]

Hugs 🫂 @Patches59 and well done for getting through such a difficult time so far. It's hard when the thoughts and memories crowd in and jostle each other for space - both the good and the bad. Will you be able to line up new support people soon do you think? 

I was taken to task for reminiscing on Christmas day, and was asked to focus on present company... fair comment I guess.

I'm  working hard on getting organised  for my upcoming major surgery. I want to clean and tidy the house and get on top of the garden beforehand as there'll be a long convalescence. 

The ground is shifting a little on a long-standing family situation. I'll see the MH Social Worker in a couple of weeks and hopefully she can help me navigate it. 

Pats and cuddles to your two feline friends. I hope they're providing some solace.

Take care.