Congratulations ! You've found my site... probably through no fault of your own. Contrary to popular belief the NHS is not free. How can it be? Somebody has to pay for it. It is my opinion that the NHS is primarily a Service about the Health of the Nation e.g. immunisations. We are all individually responsible for our own health. The content displayed here is for those seeking information to enhance their situation (for minimal cost) whilst enduring a psychiatric issue. Implementing the advice on my web site could help optimise your health thus making it less likely that you will require repeat hospitalisations. The web site is still in an embryonic stage and very much under construction so please do Bookmark this page / add to Favourites (Ctrl-D) and return often. Tell your friends ! ;)
There's a lot of complacency among services users. For example many people assume that they will automatically qualify for all benefits regardless of their National Insurance contributions record. The consequences of being ignorant of the benefits rules can be detrimental to your financial health for the rest of your life. Optimism bias is no substitute for the expertise of a Welfare Rights Worker via the Citizens Advice Bureau - "Confidential advice for claiming benefits" - Tel: 08 444 111 444.
Well Being - I associate being well with drinking copious amounts of water daily usually when waking up in the morning. Water on its own is boring and also too much water on its own can deplete salts in one's body and even cause death in extrememe circumstances. So I drink diluted fruit juice and weak Barley Cup hot drink. (I use Barley Cup from Holland & Barrett to avoid caffeine.) I believe that water is good for me generally. It is essential. I also believe that dehydration can predispose one into mental illness. My urine should be pale lemon. If it's darker than that I know to drink more water. Fluids++. Second to the water I associate being well with my medication. Also, gainful employment is beneficial to my health. Generally, you can work to varying degrees (paid and voluntary) whilst receiving welfare benefits. You need information to make a decision on this matter. A good place to start is: Disability Alliance.
Influenza - I believe that influenza can be deleterious to my mental health. It may be debilitating to my mood through exhaustion and/or sleep disruption and affect the efficiency of my medications through sweating, vomiting and diarrhoea. The combination of all these factors may predispose me to an episode of severe mental impairment. Influenza may precipitate me into a lingering malaise and recovery through convalescence could take a long time. Consequently, I want to avoid the aches, pains and fevers of flu and the difficulties it brings to my well-being. For most people, flu will just make them feel miserable but they will get better on their own after the virus runs its course. But if you have a medical condition which puts you in the 'at risk' category you are more at risk of becoming very unwell because of flu. I request flu vaccinations every Autumn in the belief that they benefit my health. Also, my having the flu vaccination may benefit other people as I am one less person to pass the flu on. I can't prove my belief, I have no statistics, it is just the way that I feel. As a self employed sole trader I simply can't afford not to pay the £20 to have the flu vaccination administered to me privately. If you live alone you may be especially at risk without someone to care for you and give you drinks and such like. You could die of dehydration. This Winter 2011/2012 the influenza virus is predicted to be particularly virulent. If you ask your GP practice nurse nicely she might give you the influenza vaccination for free. You have to look after your body... it's the only place you have to live. Some people stay the same, miss the changes, won't face up to them and leave the future up for grabs. Individual ambition serves the common good. I am most fortunate to receive care that enhances my life. Stay well.
Beware Caffeine ! - Caffeine can affect the Lithium level in your body if you are on Lithium medication. It is generally accepted that the therapeutic level for Lithium medication is 0.4 to 0.8. Any lower than 0.4 and the dose becomes ineffective and you may become ill. Any higher than 0.8 and the dose becomes toxic and yes you guessed it, you may become ill. My consultant psychiatrist was concerned that my Lithium level had dropped to 0.45 over the period of a year. In passing he mentioned that caffeine could affect the Lithium level. My wife said: "He's drinking decaffeintaed coffee so that's alright." Doctor: "No, you will be lucky to get half the caffeine removed with decaff." Me: "Well, Earl Grey is weak so that's okay." Doctor: "Earl Grey as well." So I've stopped consuming products with caffeine e.g. tea, coffee, cola and choclolate. Subsequently I had a blood test and the level returned to normal at 0.63 - middle of the range. Well, I'm glad we got that sorted out!
Bob's tips for a good night's sleep. - Avoid caffeine like the plague all day and every day. That means no tea, no coffee of any kind, no chocolate and no cola etc. Endeavour to calm yourself down before bedtime. Don't take exercise in the evening. Video screens e.g. television and PC monitors can aggravate you with their indiscernible flicker due to their construction and operation. Record your evening programmes and watch them in the daytime. Similarly use PC for e-mails and browsing during the daytime. No eating or drinking after your evening meal except of course a small drink of water to accompany night time medication. This will reduce the likely hood of stomach activity and you will not require to get up in the middle of the night to use the toilet. Make your bedroom a place of rest. Not too hot. A cool bedroom is better for sleep than a hot one. 18ºC is ideal. I have a CD player with gentle instrumental music to soothe me to sleep. Avoid watching TV, eating and discussing emotional issues in bed. The bed should be used for sleep and making love only. If not, you can end up associating the bed with distracting activities that could make it difficult for you to fall asleep. Keep a regular sleep schedule. Follow these tips and there's a good chance that you will sleep like a baby all the way through the night and awake refreshed.
Table salt can affect lithium level blood test result as used for treatment of bipolar. When the body takes in table salt it may detect that it has too much and tries to compensate by excreting the therapeutic lithium salt. Changing your intake of table salt can affect your lithium treatment for bipolar / manic depression.
Medication - ALWAYS TAKE A COLD DRINK WITH TABLETS - Many tablets e.g. Lithium are 'slow release' that means they have a delayed adsorption rate coating that is undermined when taken with a hot drink. Always take tablets with a cold drink. Also avoid "sparkling" effervescent drinks "with bubbles" as I believe they can affect the absorption rate of medication. Some people say: "Take it easy". I don't care how I take it just so long as I do take it.
My mom used to insist that I take vitamins. I asked my doctor about this and he said: "Well, they won't do you any harm." So to keep my mom happy I take vitamin pills. When the time came for me to take Lithium I decided that I should consider it as a dietary supplement like vitamins. After all Lithium is a naturally occurring salt (Lithium Carbonate).
I believe that my bipolar affective disorder is predominantly a genetic issue. Metaphorically speaking; Genetics load the gun and enviromental factors pull the trigger. My lithium medication appears to enhance the functioning of my brain so it is a good thing that I take it. After all, why should I settle for what I was born with?
Thinking of coming off your psychiatric medication cold - turkey without medical supervision? Think again! I'm not a doctor or a nurse I am a services user just like yourself. I have met several fellow patients who discarded their medication and they all ended up back in a mental hospital. Don't let it happen to you. You might do it once, twice, maybe thrice but after that you will probably damage yourself and forever be a burden to your family and the National Health Service. You won't get back what you have lost. Generally, most psychiatric medications don't cure the illness they just mask the symptoms. It is your right to refuse medication but you should tell your doctor of your intention so that all of the options open to you can be discussed. Freephone: CALM - Campaign Against Living Miserably on 0800 58 58 58 to talk to a mental health care professional anonymously. All of the above represents my personal opinions only. Best wishes and stay well, Benefits Bob the Welfare Weasel.
Say no to that joint my friend. The Home Office is responding to new research evidence from Holland which links cannabis with an increased risk of mental illness e.g. schizophrenia. "Development of psychosis harm from the use of cannabis is four times higher for the 10% of the population predisposed to it." Source: Professor Jim Van-Oss of Maastricht University. Mental health charities have welcomed moves to promote a review of information and to bring attention to higher strengths of cannabis known as skunk. "More and more people with mental health difficulties are using cannabis and we can see a direct link between cannabis and their problems." Source: Mental Health Community. Hash, bhang, black, blast, reefer, joint, blow, dope, ganga, grass, marijuana call it what you will cannabis is not as benign as previously thought. "Don't take cannabis." Source: Psychiatrist.
Promote Dental Hygiene Campaign - Depressed mental patients' possible self neglect regarding poor dental hygiene leading to gum recession and eventual loss of teeth is a worthwhile campaign issue. This campaign is I believe achieveable, non political, of timeless value, virtually free and of benefit to many psychiatric patients. I am presently pursuing this campaign via my web site, the mental health forums I attend and talking to anybody who will listen. You can make a difference; join the campaign now by protecting your teeth from gum recession and propagating the knowledge. Toothbrushes are available, to patients in National Health Service psychiatric hospitals, on request to the staff.
Many mental patients lose their teeth because they are predisposed to self neglect. When ill and left to my own devices I tend to self neglect. Good dental hygiene is important for healthy teeth and gums. A dental hygienist has advised me that some people need help with brushing their teeth. An electric toothbrush may be appropriate providing it is used gently. I use the Oral-B Professional Care 7000 electric toothbrush (Which? best buy) powered by Braun, available from Boots or Superdrug on special offer for just £33 (was £45) and replacement FlexiSoft brushheads only cost £3·50 each. It removes plaque efficiently. I love it! :) p.s. Remember to floss. I use Oral-B Essential Floss twice a week together with Oral-B, or Listerine, mouth rinse available from Superdrug and Boots. Helps me to do more to keep my teeth and gums healthy.
My professional patient duties are:
• Diligently take my medication
• Drink plenty of water to flush out medication toxins
• Maintain my dental hygiene
Issues such as a dishevelled appearance are relatively trivial and will be resolved with time.
Interestingly I attended a ViewPoint meeting recently and dental hygiene was raised as an issue. The comment was that there needs to be an enhanced promotion of personal and dental hygiene to allow people to be more acceptable in society. Often it is easy to correct a dishevelled appearance but it takes a lot longer, if ever, to repair damaged teeth and gums. Prevention is better than cure. For many psychiatric patients, who are fortunate enough to receive help, their mental health will improve significantly. Upon recovery you will be thankful that you persevered with your dental hygiene régime. Be true to your teeth or they'll be false to you.
Survival On A Psychiatric Ward - NHS psychiatric wards are notorious for their shortage of bath plugs. Always carry a bath plug with you in case you are admitted. You can make new friends by lending it out to fellow patients.
If you wake up in the middle of the night on a NHS psychiatric ward ask for a warm milky drink. The staff are trained to provide this service. Requests for cups of tea or coffee may be curtly refused especially when you consider that caffeine inhibits sleep whilst warm milk is beneficial. If preparing a warm milky drink at home I find that a microwaveable mug of milk heated at 800W E full power for 1½ minutes and then stirred, works well for me. When using a microwave oven protect your eyes as some liquids may "explode" if very hot.
No coins to telephone a friend then dial: 0800 REVERSE where REVERSE = 7383773 for a reverse charge call.
The Big Book of Benefits and Mental Health - Judy Stenger. Exclusively available from Mind this manual contains user-friendly hints, information, examples, tips, tactics and sample forms. Aimed at people with mental health problems and those who help with benefits applications and challenging decisions. To order call Mind publications on 0844 448 4448 or shop online at www.mind.org.uk/shop. "An essential piece of kit for all community mental health teams, community psychiatric nurses, approved social workers and voluntary groups as well as general benefit advisers... If you have a mental health problem and are trying to cope with the benefit system or if you are a professional who wants to give good solid advice there is no better guide that you can buy..." Community Care Magazine
Useful Phrases when completing benefit claim forms or being interviewed by benefit officials; "It is often useful to apply a liberal sprinkling of words such as; caring, support and health." Source: Support Worker. Here are some examples of useful phrases that can help to fill up those irksome blank white areas on a claim form: "I believe that leaving my employment has benefited my health. I accept the changes to my medication as prescribed by the doctors." Source: Community Psychiatric Nurse. "I require a caring, supportive environment that promotes my health. I trust that I have found it." Source: Social Worker. "The benefits help to take away the pressure for me to go to work." Source: Keyworker. "I've had this condition a number of years. Please consider an indefinite award of benefit." Source: Department for Work and Pensions officer. Learn these phrases along with your National Insurance number. Fail to prepare... prepare to fail.
Tips for submitting benefit claims to the DWP - Department for Work & Pensions. It is not unknown for the DWP to lose benefit claim forms. We're all human after all. You could prove that you sent your form in using Recorded and even Special Delivery but they cost money. A free alternative that gives you some ability to prove that you did in fact post your claim form is to ask for a Certificate of Posting at the post office. Being able to confirm that you did send in your claim form on time may entitle you to having your claim back-dated so that you do not lose out on your money. It is most useful for your claim to securely attach letters to your form such as medical report from your doctor. Do not send the originals but keep them safe and send in photocopies. Each page of your letters should have your full name and National Insurance number written on them prominately at the top and preferably highlighted. Remember to photocopy everything that you send to the DWP so that you can refer to it later if your claim form does get lost and you have to complete the form again and also if you do submit further information later you can ensure that you do not contradict yourself. If you have to go through the appeal procedure a photocopy of your form will help you prepare. With regard to securing letters to my claim forms I use a heavy duty Rexel paper punch cost about £20 from Rymans Stationery shop. It is capable of punching up to eighty sheets of paper in one go so it is ideal for my purpose. When all the pages of the claim form and letters are punched with holes I attach Ryman's self-adhesive ring reinforcements to every sheet. Then I secure all the pages together with tax tags. These are green twine with metal ends and also available from Rymans or any other stationery shop. It is most important that you give claiming your rightful entitlement to benefits your best effort first time so that the authorities can award you the money you deserve without you having to burden the system with an appeal.
All the information on this web site represents my personal opinions only. I strenuously advise you to seek professional advice with regard to your entitlements e.g. CAB - Citizens Advice Bureau Tel: 08 444 111 444 - Confidential advice for claiming benefits.
Suicide Prevention
This time of the year (Christmas) can be particularly challenging for people with bipolar manic depression, especially those who find themselves alone over the seasonal holidays. With this in mind Jonathan Ashby tackles a sensitive subject in the hope that the following information proves to be of value to all our readers.
Understanding and Helping a Suicidal Person - A suicidal person may not ask for help, but that doesn't mean that help isn't wanted. Most people who commit suicide don't want to die - they just want to stop hurting. Suicide prevention starts with recognizing the warning signs and taking them seriously.
If you think a friend or family member is considering suicide, you might be afraid to bring up the subject. But talking openly about suicidal thoughts and feelings can save a life. Speak up if you're concerned and seek professional help immediately. Through understanding, reassurance and support, you can help your loved one overcome thoughts of suicide.
Understanding and preventing suicide - The World Health Organization estimates that approximately one million people die each year from suicide. What drives so many individuals to take their own lives? To those not in the grips of suicidal depression and despair, it's difficult to understand. But a suicidal person is in so much pain that he or she can see no other option.
Suicide is a desperate attempt to escape suffering that has become unbearable. Blinded by feelings of self-loathing, hopelessness, and isolation, a suicidal person can't see any way of finding relief except through death. But despite their desire for the pain to stop, most suicidal people are deeply conflicted about ending their own lives. They wish there was an alternative to committing suicide, but they just can't see one.
As a result of their ambivalence about dying, suicidal individuals usually give warning signs or signals of their intentions. The best way to prevent suicide is to know and watch for these warning signs and to get involved if you spot them. If you believe that a friend or family member is suicidal, you can play a role in suicide prevention by pointing out the alternatives, showing that you care and getting a doctor or psychologist involved.
Common Misconceptions about Suicide:
FALSE: People who talk about suicide won't really do it. Almost everyone who commits or attempts suicide has given some clue or warning. Do not ignore suicide threats. Statements like "you'll be sorry when I'm dead," "I can't see any way out," - no matter how casually or jokingly said may indicate serious suicidal feelings.
FALSE: Anyone who tries to kill him/herself must be crazy. Most suicidal people are not psychotic or insane. They must be upset, grief-stricken, depressed or despairing, but extreme distress and emotional pain are not necessarily signs of mental illness.
FALSE: If a person is determined to kill him/herself, nothing is going to stop him/her. Even the most severely depressed person has mixed feelings about death, wavering until the very last moment between wanting to live and wanting to die. Most suicidal people do not want death; they want the pain to stop. The impulse to end it all, however overpowering, does not last forever.
FALSE: People who commit suicide are people who were unwilling to seek help. Studies of suicide victims have shown that more than half had sought medical help within six month before their deaths.
FALSE: Talking about suicide may give someone the idea. You don't give a suicidal person ideas by talking about suicide. The opposite is true - bringing up the subject of suicide and discussing it openly is one of the most helpful things you can do.
Warning signs of suicide - Suicide prevention begins with an awareness of the warning signs of suicidal thoughts and feelings. Major warning signs for suicide include talking about killing or harming oneself, talking or writing a lot about death or dying and seeking out things that could be used in a suicide attempt, such as weapons and drugs. Take any suicidal talk or behavior seriously. It's not just a warning sign that the person is thinking about suicide - it's a cry for help.
A more subtle but equally dangerous warning sign of suicide is hopelessness. Studies have found that hopelessness is a strong predictor of suicide. People who feel hopeless may talk about "unbearable" feelings, predict a bleak future, and state that they have nothing to look forward to.
Other warning signs that point to a suicidal mind frame include dramatic mood swings or sudden personality changes, such as going from outgoing to withdrawn or well-behaved to rebellious. A suicidal person may also lose interest in day-to-day activities, neglect his or her appearance and show big changes in eating or sleeping habits.
Suicide Warning Signs
Talking about suicide - Any talk about suicide, dying, or self-harm. Includes statements such as "I wish I hadn't been born," "If I see you again...," "I want out," and "I'd be better off dead."
Seeking out lethal means - Looking for ways to commit suicide. Seeking access to guns, pills, knives, or other objects that could be used in a suicide attempt.
Preoccupation with death - Unusual focus on death, dying, or violence. Writing poems or stories about death.
No hope for the future - Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and being trapped ("There's no way out"). Belief that things will never get better or change. Self-loathing, selfhatred, feelings of worthlessness, guilt and shame. Feeling like a burden ("Everyone would be better off without me").
Getting affairs in order - Making out a will. Giving away prized possessions. Making arrangements for family members.
Saying goodbye - Unusual or unexpected visits or calls to family and friends. Saying goodbye to people as if they won't be seen again.
Withdrawing from others - Withdrawing from friends and family. Increasing social isolation. Desire to be left alone.
Taking unnecessary risks - Self-destructive Increased alcohol or drug use, reckless behaviour driving, unsafe sex, as if they have a "death wish".
Sudden sense of calm - A sudden sense of calm and happiness after being extremely depressed can mean that the person has made a decision to commit suicide.
Suicide prevention tip number one: Speak up if you're worried. If you spot the warning signs of suicide in someone you care about, you may wonder if it's a good idea to say anything. What if you're wrong? What if the person gets angry? Even worse, what if you plant the idea in your friend or family member's head? In such situations, it's natural to feel uncomfortable or afraid. But anyone who talks about suicide or shows other warning signs needs immediate help - the sooner the better.
Talking to a person about suicide - If you're unsure whether someone is suicidal, the best way to find out is to ask. You can't make a person suicidal by showing that you care. In fact, giving the individual the opportunity to express his or her feelings may prevent a suicide attempt. The person may even be relieved that you brought up the issue.
Here are some questions you can ask:
• Have you ever thought that you'd be better off dead or that if you died, it wouldn't matter?
• Have you thought about harming yourself?
• Are you thinking about suicide?
Suicide hotlines to call for help:
Samaritans - Helpline: 08457 909090 (UK) or 1850 60 90 90 (Republic of Ireland) Local rate 24 hours daily.
Papyrus - A voluntary organisation committed to the prevention of young suicide and the promotion of mental health and wellbeing. Contact: 08000 68 4141 or 01978 367333.
Childline - Helpline: 0800 1111. Childline is the free, confidential, 24-hour helpline for any child with any problem. Lines can be busy so keep trying.
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) Helpline: 0870 2413 337 (9am-9pm daily) Aims to provide a safe, confidential environment in which bereaved people can share their experiences and feelings, so giving and gaining support from each other.
Suicide prevention tip number 2: Respond quickly in a crisis. If a friend or family member tells you that he or she is thinking about death or suicide, it's important to evaluate the immediate danger the person is in. Those at the highest risk for committing suicide in the near future have a specific suicide plan, the means to carry out the plan, a time schedule for doing it, and an intention to do it.
Level of Suicide Risk
Low - Some suicidal thoughts. No suicide plan. Says he or she won't commit suicide.
Moderate - Suicidal thoughts. Vague plan that isn't very lethal. Says he or she won't commit suicide.
High - Suicidal thoughts. Specific plan that is highly lethal. Says he or she won't commit suicide.
Severe - Suicidal thoughts. Specific plan that is highly lethal. Says he or she will commit suicide.
The following questions can help you assess the immediate risk for suicide:
• Do you have a suicide plan?
• Do you have what you need to carry out your plan (pills, gun, etc.)?
• Do you know when you would do it?
• Do you intend to commit suicide?
If a suicide attempt seems imminent, call a local crisis centre, dial 999, or take the person to an emergency room. Do not, under any circumstances, leave a suicidal person alone. It's also wise to remove, drugs, knives, and other potentially lethal objects from the vicinity. In some cases, involuntary hospitalisation may be necessary to keep the person safe and prevent a suicide attempt.
Suicide prevention tip number three: Offer help and support. If a friend or family member is suicidal, the best way to help is by offering an empathetic, listening ear. Let your loved one know that he or she is not alone and that you care. Don't take responsibility, however, for making your loved one well. You can offer support, but you can't get better for a suicidal person. He or she has to make a personal commitment to recovery. As you're helping a suicidal person, don't forget to take care of yourself. Find someone that you trust - a friend, family member, clergyman, or counsellor - to talk to about your feelings and get support of your own.
Helping a suicidal person:
• Listen without judgement - Let a suicidal person express his or her feelings and accept those feelings without judging or discounting them. Don't act shocked, lecture on the value of life, or say that suicide is wrong.
• Offer hope - Reassure the person that help is available and that the suicidal feelings are temporary. Don't dismiss the pain he or she feels, but talk about the alternatives to suicide and let the person know that his or her life is important to you.
• Don't promise confidentiality - Refuse to be sworn to secrecy. A life is at stake and you may need to speak to a mental health professional in order to keep the suicidal person safe. If you promise to keep your discussions secret, you may have to break your word.
• Get professional help - Do everything in your power to get a suicidal person the help he or she needs. Call a crisis line for advice and referrals. Encourage the person to see a mental health professional, help locate a treatment facility, or take them to a doctor's appointment.
• Make a plan for life - Help the person develop a "Plan for Life," a set of steps he or she promises to follow during a suicidal crisis. It should include contact numbers for the person's doctor or therapist, as well as friends and family members who will help in an emergency.
Risk factors for suicide - At least 90 percent of all people who commit suicide suffer from depression, alcoholism, or a combination of mental disorders. Depression in particular plays a large role in suicide. The difficulty suicidal people have imagining a solution to their suffering is due in part to the distorted thinking caused by depression.
Antidepressants and Suicide - Overall, the risk of suicide is lower in people taking antidepressants for depression. But for some, antidepression medication causes an increase rather than a decrease in depression and suicidal thoughts and feelings. As a result of this risk, anyone on antidepressants should be watched for increases in suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Monitoring is especially important if this is the person's first time on depression medication or if the dose has recently been changed. The risk of suicide is the greatest during the first two months of antidepressant treatment.
Common suicide risk factors include:
• Mental illness
• Alcoholism or drug abuse
• Previous suicide attempts
• Family history of suicide
• Terminal illness or chronic pain
• Recent loss or stressful life event
• Social isolation and loneliness
• History of trauma or abuse
AND FINALLY, SOME CALM - The Campaign Against Living Miserably is an initiative by the Department of Health to help alleviate suffering caused by suicidal thoughts, mental illness and drug dependency. The CALM campaign is targeted at men in the age range 15 to 35 years, but the helpline is open to anyone. Everyone who calls will receive an equal service regardless of age, gender, cultural background or sexuality. Originally based in Manchester it is now available nationwide 5:00pm to 12:00am Saturday to Tuesday. If you need to speak to a counsellor Freephone: 0800 585858. Calls to CALM on a landline are free, confidential and anonymous and they don't show up on landline telephone bills.
How much does Mental Health Survival Guide cost? - This Mental Health Survival Guide web site is free (to all users). Free to access, free to read, free to print, free to upload, free to download, free to host, free to link, just Free. In other words, it is free, zero cost, nada, no hidden fees, free. For more information, read the Fine Print: free, free, free, free, free!
The Cross Street Centre - Alternative daycentre Coffee Shop. Behind Argos in Cross Street, St Albans. Monday to Saturday 10am to 2pm.
Cutting cinema costs via the Cinema Exhibitors' Association national card scheme can reduce the expense of a visit to see the latest films. Card holders will be able to get a free ticket for the person who accompanies them, every time they go to the cinema. To qualify for a card someone will need to meet one or more of the following criteria:
• Be in receipt of Disability Living Allowance
• Be in receipt of Attendance Allowance
• Be a registered blind person
The CEA card is valid for one year from the date of issue and costs £5·50 to process. It can be used in the cinema of Odeon and other major chains as well as in some local independent cinemas. For further information ask at your local cinema. If you have any difficulty, please contact at this address: CEACARD, Po Box 199, Deeside, CH5 9BW Tel: 0845 123 1292 or visit Web Site where participating cinemas are listed and you may print an application form.
The Medical Exemption Certificate, if appropriate, entitles the bearer to free prescriptions for certain conditions e.g. diabetes and thyroid problems. Ask your GP receptionist, NHS hospital or local pharmacy for a FP92A application form. Complete and sign parts 1 and 2 and then ask your GP or hospital doctor to complete and sign part 3. Send it to your local Health authority (your GP, NHS hospital doctor or local pharmacy can give you the address). To confirm your free prescription status Tel: 0845 4647 for advice.
Not entitled to free prescriptions? Pre-pay. You may find it cheaper to buy a pre-payment certificate (PPC) if you think you will have to get more than 5 items in 4 months or 14 items in 12 months. Buying a PPC; telephone 0845 850 0030 to find out the cost of a PPC and to pay by credit or debit card. Alternatively consider the NHS Low Income Scheme for help with prescription charges. You will need a HC1 form available from Post Offices, Social Security Offices or by Freephone: 0800 882200. Processing a claim usually takes 4 to 6 weeks.
Hertfordshire Libraries offer free loan of music compact discs and no charge for overdue books plus other special concessions for those with a disability e.g. claimants of Disability Living Allowance. Pick up an information leaflet at your local branch.
Starting up when disabled - Do you know someone who is disabled, would like to run a business and needs support? Ready to Start is an employment initiative run by Leonard Cheshire Disability in partnership with Barclays which backs disabled people to begin their own business. Ready to Start supports more than 1,000 disabled entrepeneurs across the UK to unlock their hidden potential and start a business. Ready to Start provides disabled entrepreneurs with a business buddy, distance mentor, free computer equipment, software, training courses tailored to their needs, start-up advice and information about relevant trade bodies and business associations to help them network locally. If you know someone who is disabled, with designs on running a business and would like to know how to make a start Tel: 08456 717173.
Dacorum Horizons is an exciting new community project funded as part of the national Learning Revolution to encourage people into informal adult learning. Any member of the public who is over 19 may participate. Informal adult learning is learning for its own intrinsic value and we have a wide range of activities. Dacorum Horizons has something for everyone and best of all, IT'S FREE. All courses will take place at Dacorum Horizons, 160 Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead, Herts. Tel: 01442 268600 open Tuesday - Saturday 10am to 4pm.
ICE - A friend told me about a scheme whereby you put your next of kin's name and number in your mobile phone in case you have an emergency. It's called ICE, and it's a brilliant yet simple idea launched by an East Anglian ambulance paramedic, Bob Brotchie, in 2005. You enter the acronym ICE - short for "in case of emergency" - into your mobile phone's contact book alongside the number of someone who should be contacted in an emergency. In the event of need the emergency services will know immediately whom to call, saving lots of wasted time.
Helpful Medication Hints - Taking medication for the first time can be a little daunting but with some helpful aids & tips your fears can be alleviated. I use a PILLMATE pillbox. This is a pillbox which has sections divided up into days of the week i.e. Monday to Sunday. Each day has four section including Morning, Noon, Evening & Night. You place whichever tablets you need to take at a particular time into the section i.e. I take one tablet at night. You can then dispense your week's worth of medication into the box. Using this pillbox means that it helps you to organise your medication & when you need to get a repeat prescription.
I also use a PILLMATE pill cutter. This is a small plastic device with a blade which enables you to cut tablets in half. This is particularly useful if your medication dosage is reduced. Both the Pillmate pillbox & pillcutter can be bought at chemists including Boots. The pill cutter is even available in different colours!
It helps to get into a routine of when you take your medication. Try to take it at the same time each day so it helps you to remember to take it. If you take medication in the evening, perhaps switching off the television, taking a bath or reading can help to relax.
When Taking a Holiday Abroad:
1) Make sure you have enough medication for the duration of your holiday. If necessary, contact your G.P to ask for extra meds.
2) Make sure you pack some meds in your hand luggage as well as or instead of your suitcase. This is because if any of your luggage gets lost, you will still have some medication with you.
3) If possible, obtaining a photocopy of your repeat prescription is a good idea. If in any emergency a doctor will be able to see what current medication you are taking and customs officers may require to see it to validate any medications you are carrying.
I hope these tips help you & make your life a little easier.
Source: Charlotte.
What you need to know about antidepressant medication - Antidepressants are not addictive and are not tranguillisers or sleeping tablets. You will be able to stop taking them when your doctor feels you are ready to, and they will help you to feel better more quickly than any other type of treatment. It usually takes a couple of weeks or so before the antidepressants have their full effects (perhaps a little longer for an elderly person). Always make sure that you take the full course of tablets, even when you start to feel better. It is important to take the tablets every day, as they do not work if you only take them when you feel you need to! Do not take any more tablets than have been prescribed for you and talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have. You may experience some side effects, but these do not usually last long. Check with your doctor about what to expect, so that they will not worry you if they occur. Don't stop taking the tablets once you start to feel better. It is important to continue taking them (usually for several months) after you feel better to ensure that you get well. Discuss with your doctor how long you should stay on the tablets.
Self-Management Tip - Some psychiatric patients find it difficult to remember to take their medication dilligently. I use an alarm clock set to ring at the appropriate hour. This reminds me to take my tablets at the prescribed time and helps me to avoid a relapse. During these uncertain days of NHS cutbacks I believe it is crucial that I self-manage my illness as essential support may not be available during a future crisis. I welcome the NHS cutbacks. I think the NHS cutbacks are second to none. The NHS cutbacks give me an incentive... an incentive not to be ill. :(
Always read the Patient Information leaflet that comes with your medications and never ever throw them away. If you didn't get a PI leaflet, you may request one. If you still don't get one then complain vociferously but politely. Some doctors tend to take a dim view of patients who know too much about medications, so tread lightly when and where appropriate. Diagnosing yourself from a web site is like defending yourself in court, you suddenly have a fool for a doctor. Don't be a cyberchondriac, thinking you have every 'dis-ease' you see a web site about, or that you'll get every side effect from every medication. Anyone with a history of mental illness who needs advice on appropriate psychiatric medication needs to be discussing that with a doctor and not getting your information from some stupid web site. Get off your computer and start making appointments!
A support worker in a daycentre sometime ago asked me: "Bob, do you believe that your medication makes you well?" I replied: "No I don't. No doctor has ever required of me to believe that my medication makes me well, they merely insist that I take it. It is not necessary for me to believe." My illness feels like a psychological issue but it is apparently a dysfunction of my brain.
Whilst on a psychiatric ward I declined the medication that I was required to take. The ward doctor was summoned immediately: "You see, when I prescribe medication for a patient it goes in him. It can go in you the easy way or it can go in you the hard way but it will go in you." I withdrew to consider his words when I heard a voice: "Nurse, is that syringe ready?" Since that day, some twenty five years ago, I have been taking my medication the easy way.
Have you got the bus pass? Do you know about the bus pass? From April 2008 the national bus pass gives free off-peak bus travel anywhere in England for older and disabled people. This scheme widens the horizons of many people. Check it out at your District Council Offices. This free travel permit is better than American Express, try using a credit card on a bus and see how far it gets you! ;~)
Hospital Visits - If you are receiving Income Support and are a close relative of the patient, it is possible for you to claim your expenses when visiting your relative. You will either be paid a mileage rate if you use your own car, or if you save your bus tickets, the cost will be refunded. Taxi fares can only be refunded in extreme circumstances, e.g. you have had to visit in the middle of the night, or you cannot use public transport due to your own ill-health. Please speak to the nurse in charge of the ward to claim your expenses.
Lithium is one of the best tested, longest used treatments since the 1960's and most effective interventions for bipolar. Psychiatrists are now moving away from the newer medications back to the old treatment Lithium because of side effects.
Points to remember: Always take prescribed dose. Appropriate doses can vary widely from person to person even people of similar weights. Make sure you get regular blood tests .Your GP may request further tests to be done e.g. thyroid and kidney function. Lithium levels can rise as you lose fluid so be wary in hot weather and during vigorous exercise and limit your consumption of diuretics, including coffee and alcohol. If you experience vomiting, dizziness, lack of coordination, blurred vision, or other signs contact your doctor immediately.
Lithium wasn't cooked up in a multi million dollar lab. It is a naturally occurring salt that happens to calm the nerves, and when used under a doctor's supervision has manageable side effects for most people. It is often effective in managing both poles of bi-polar - mania and depression.
One of the biggest challenges with Lithium is that blood levels must be maintained in a very narrow range.
Maudsley Mental Health Medication Helpline - If you want immediate advice on any mental health medication call the Mental Health Medication Helpline at the Maudsley Hospital. The helpline provides independent advice and information about mental health drugs. The helpline is staffed by experienced mental health pharmacists and provides independent advice and information about drugs to patients and carers. Tel: 020 7919 2999 or 0203 228 6000. Opening hours: 11 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays.
Keep taking the tablets. "To stop taking psychiatric medication without medical supervision may have serious consequences for your health." Source: Psychiatric Nurse. "If you should forget to take your medication at the appropriate time then wait until next scheduled dose to continue your treatment. This will maintain the continuation of your medication without the risk of overdose." Source: Occupational Therapist. "Lithium is a wonder drug that has revolutionised psychiatric medicine but in order for it to work the patient has to take it." Source: Hospital Library Book. Beware of possibly well meant but ignorant and potentially harmful comments such as: "Lithium is a placebo, you don't have to take it." Source: Care Assistant.
Response Curve
Increasing the dose of an antidepressant without medical supervision may result in a decrease of benefit if the medication response curve is not considered. With reference to the graph above it can be seen that an increase in the dose may be detrimental to the mood and may even make one feel worse than before treatment. A substantial increase in dose may be required to elevate the mood more but unfortunately this could result in unacceptable side effects. The finer details of the response curve may vary between patients. All adjustments to the dose should be authorized by the prescribing doctor. "Do not exceed the stated dose." Source: Pharmacist. "Not many GPs know about the response curve." Source: Mind.
Always remember that there are lies, damn lies and statistics. If you torture data sufficiently, it will confess to almost anything.
Anosognosia is a condition in which a person who suffers disability seems unaware of or denies the existence of his or her disability. Although largely used to describe unawareness of impairment after brain injury or stroke, the term 'anosognosia' is occasionally used to describe the lack of insight shown by some people who suffer from psychosis and who therefore do not have the insight to recognize that they suffer from a mental illness.
For individuals with severe mental illnesses, lack of awareness of illness is significantly associated with both medication non-compliance and re-hospitalisation. Fifteen percent of individuals with severe mental illnesses who refuse to take medication voluntarily under any circumstances may require some form of coercion to remain compliant because of anosognosia.
One study of voluntary and involuntary inpatients confirmed that committed patients require coercive treatment because they fail to recognize their need for care. Predictably, the patients committed to the hospital had significantly lower measures of insight than the voluntary patients.
It has been suggested that mental patients with anosognosia and who are not compliant with their medication régime should be paid (£15 per week typical) to take their medication and/or attend depot clinic. This would have the dual effect of enhancing the treatment of the patient and saving society the cost of repeat hospitalisation of the patient. This idea has been criticised for being coercive.
What do you think? How should that affect their benefits?
Cooking for one. Sadly, many psychiatric patients eventually find themselves living alone. Here is a quick and useful recipe ideal for bedsit preparation.
Scrambled Egg
2 large eggs
6 tablespoons milk
½ oz butter or margarine
1 tomato
2 slices buttered toast
Put a stop to the rumours about microwave scrambled egg not being as nice as when it's made on the hob. This recipe is just as delicious and it's much quicker too. Serves 1. Beat together 2 large eggs and 6 tablespoons of milk in a microwaveable bowl. Add butter and season to taste. Put in the microwave and cook on HIGH for 60 seconds. Stir and return to the microwave and cook on HIGH for a further 60 seconds. If you prefer your eggs more firm, cook on HIGH for a further 10 secs. Serve on buttered toast with sliced tomato on the side. Source: Lizzie
Hearing Voices - When I was under great emotional stress and had a major mental breakdown a cynical voice impinged itself onto my mind yet I was alone. Was it an hallucination? It matters not to me as I shouted at it in my mind in a most forceful manner. This was most effective in banishing the rogue spirit.
Whilst on a psychiatric ward I declined the medication that I was required to take. The ward doctor was summoned immediately: "You see, when I prescribe medication for a patient it goes in him. It can go in you the easy way or it can go in you the hard way but it will go in you." I withdrew to consider his words when I heard a voice: "Nurse, is that syringe ready?" Since that day, some twenty years ago, I have been taking my medication the easy way.
Hearing Voices
Hearing Voices Network
Travel Insurance
What do people with pre existing medical conditions do about travel insurance? The last time I took out insurance I had to pay ten times what a person with no pre-existing medical conditions would have had to pay?
Special Medical Conditions - The main issue for anyone with mental health problems, and their partner or family, is to find a travel insurer who accepts pre-existing medical conditions. Pre-existing medical conditions are one of the most important exclusions in all travel policies, unless they have been disclosed when you take out the policy and have been approved by your insurer. Some companies will not cover pre-existing illnesses, and others increase premiums or impose a higher excess.
Current Issues for Consideration - Getting insurance for the USA is one of the most difficult countries to have reasonably priced insurance for. If it is possible to choose another holiday destination at the outset then it may be advisable. If you want a holiday and you aren't fixed on a particular country then it maybe worth asking the insurer what the different rates for different countries will be. For example Australia and most of Europe have a health exchange agreement with the UK, so can be considerably less in insurance than the USA and Spain, where health costs are considerably higher. The more time that has passed from your diagnosis and treatment, the greater your chances are of getting reasonable travel insurance. That is, the longer you have been living with a mental health problem, especially if it is greater than 5 years, the easier it is to get travel insurance. If you have recent episodes or had to cancel a previous trip due to mental health difficulties, it will be very difficult and very expensive to get travel insurance. If you wanted to go to the USA, it will be virtually impossible. In most cases, it is likely the insurer will have to speak to your consultant. Getting travel insurance for a mental health patient is an individual process in that you will be asked about your current health status, if you have had recent hospitalisations and when it was, if you were on medication and when that was and if you are having ongoing treatment now (this makes it more expensive - this doesn't however include ongoing therapy or psychiatrist visits, just the treatments).
Shop around for travel insurance - Don't buy travel insurance with your holiday! It is likely to be very expensive and probably not cover you for pre-existing medical conditions. Shop around for travel insurance. There can be a marked difference in charges between companies. Take a look at WHICH HOLIDAY magazine (published by The Consumers' Association) available in your local library or by subscription online. WHICH surveys the travel insurance market in March each year, and regularly updates their information through the year. Save time by asking your local insurance broker to find you the best value holiday cover. Always tell them about recent or planned treatment, and any other pre-existing medical conditions, otherwise these won't be covered if you make a claim.
Be prepared for questions - You may be asked for the dates of your last or next hospital visit, what it was for, and about any proposed or ongoing treatment. You may be required to provide a letter from your GP or your consultant confirming your fitness to travel. This is particularly relevant for people with a newly-diagnosed mental health problem, or those who have had recent treatment.
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) - Travelling in Europe? Make sure you take the new EHIC or European Health Insurance Card. This card has replaced the old E111 as of January 2006. It entitles you to free or reduced medical care in most of Europe (European Economic Area - EEA) and Switzerland. Insurers may waive excesses for medical treatment if you use your EHIC to get treatment. Keep the card in a safe place, it is an important and valuable document. The EHIC card is available free to all residents of the UK. You can apply for it either online www.ehic.org.uk by telephone 0845 606 2030 or simply pick up an application form from the Post Office. You need to apply three weeks before travel to Europe. An EHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance, and should not be considered as a cheap alternative. It provides cover in an emergency, and is only valid in EEA countries. For complete coverage you should always take out your own travel insurance policy as well and tell the insurer you are taking an EHIC with you.
Travel Insurance Companies - Below is a selection of companies that may be able to provide cover. I am unable to recommend any specific company.
Adrian Flux Tel: 0800 089 0203, Very helpful. Freephone or call back service offered.
All Clear Travel Tel: 08000 82 52 52, AllClearTravel is designed for travellers with pre existing medical conditions.
Club Direct Tel: 0800 083 2466, Club Direct provides travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions, subject to online or telephone screening.
Direct Travel Insurance Tel: 0845 605 2700, They speak to you personally about your pre-existing medical condition before giving a quote.
Essential Health & MIA Tel: 0845 408 5444, European travel insurance to cover pre-existing medical conditions.
Essential Travel Tel: 0845 803 5434. Essential Travel's pre existing medical conditions insurance offers full protection for a wide range of conditions meaning you can enjoy your holiday with the knowledge you are fully insured. Access their Pre Existing Medical Conditions Insurance." *Now covering Cancer Travel Insurance.*
Flexicover Tel: 0845 223 4500, They will not cover you if your doctor/consultant has advised you not to travel. Cover may still be offered if you have consultant support subject to you declaring your medical condition/s through their screening service Healthscreen247.
Free Spirit Tel: 0845 230 5000, Travel Insurance for patients with pre-existing conditions.
Freedom Travel Insurance Tel: 01223 454 290, They offer insurance for people with pre-existing medical conditions. They are very helpful and willing to talk through the options. They also are prepared to explain what the underwriters are asking and why.
J & M Insurance Tel: 020 7446 7626, Travelbility insurance cover designed for pre-existing medical conditions and disabled people for travel worldwide. They also cover your mobility and disability equipment while travelling.
Mediquote Tel: 01243 534 435, They have a professional assesment team who will speak to you before giving a quote.
Primary Insurance Tel: 0844 412 3112, They will quote for pre-existing medical conditions.
Further Information - For more information on specialist or local travel insurance companies see the website of the British Insurance Brokers' Association or the British Foreign Office.
I have neither researched company policies nor can I recommend any particular travel agent/insurance company. These are intended as a guide only and on recommendation from other mental health patients who have used their services. The travel insurance information above was researched & written by B Maru.
NHS Credit Crunch Stressline Tel: 0300 123 2000 and speak to someone who cares. It is often said that 1 in 4 people will be affected by mental illness. What is often not realised is that 1 in 3 of the 1 in 4 are likely to be in debt. Job insecurity, redundancy, debt and money problems can all cause feelings of distress. When times are tough, it's quite natural to feel worried or down. It's when these feelings go on for weeks that they can start to affect your health and wellbeing.
You may be worried about finding a job, or anxious about losing your business. You may be stressed about overdue bills. You may even be worried about losing your home. The credit crunch hits people in lots of different ways.
The NHS Credit Crunch Stressline is prepared to help. Here is what they say:
"We'll help you to understand the real nature of your problem. We'll ask you some questions and find out just how bad you're feeling. We'll give you some clarity and help you to get on top of things.
"Our health advisers will spend time talking things over with you. Conversations could last a few minutes or they could last a quarter of an hour.
"Whatever your problem, we'll offer you practical advice or point you to just the right service.
Expert advice will:
• help you to look at your problems;
• provide self-help materials;
• give supportive feedback; and
• guide you to online resources.
Other help available:
• financial and debt management services
• employment and career services
• mental health services.
"One of the worst things about a crisis is that things no longer feel normal. We'll help you to get your life back on track - we'll either do this ourselves or point you to other people who can do it instead.
Worry is generally caused by a setback that is temporary and specific. We'll give you the tools and resources you need to overcome your difficulties. We'll show you how to cope.
Talk to us on 0300 123 2000." Calls should cost the same as those to standard landlines and may be part of your call package. Costs from mobiles may vary.
Need help managing your money? Mind, the mental health charity, realises that managing personal finances and good mental health go hand in hand. Struggling to keep control of income and expenditure can affect mental health and sometimes having a mental health problem can seriously affect your finances. To give you access to information and support about your money Mind has added a money section to its web pages. You can find these at www.mind.org.uk/money It will be useful for anyone concerned about their money but is especially helpful for people with experience of mental distress.
Mentally ill exploited by careless lenders - People that are suffering from a mental illness are three times more likely to be in debt and four times more likely if diagnosed with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
However, lenders often do not understand how mental health can influence the way that customers deal with their finances and few have effective plans to deal with the specific demands such customers have.
Emma Mamo, of Mind, the mental health charity, says: "People with bipolar disorder may go on massive spending sprees during a manic phase and take on credit and loans that they cannot afford. Once their mania is over, they may be unable to deal with the consequences, such as being harassed to pay debts that they may not even remember accumulating."
Source: Times On Line
Debt and mental health - Often, following a diagnosis of bipolar and acceptance of having the condition, there is a financial burden to deal with in addition to the maze of finding the right medical help. Resources which may be useful include:
The Consumer Credit Counselling Service who provide free, impartial and realistic support regarding debt. Tel: 0800 138 111 or visit www.cccs.co.uk
The National Debtline who provide free confidential and independent advice on debt. Tel: 0808 808 4000 or visit www.nationaldebtline.co.uk
Patient.co.uk - Useful source of information.
Worried how your loved one will cope after you've gone? - Having a severe mental illness can sometimes make it difficult to manage finances on your own or look after your assets. Carers often take in these responsibilities for their loved ones, but what happens when you are no longer around? Rethink Trust Coporation is an option. They can set up a trust for you that will not affect your beneficiary's entitlement to state benefits. Give them a call today on 0845 456 0455. Email: info@rethink.org www.rethink.org
How do you live with a husband with manic depression? - The love of a good woman: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1279201/How-live-husband-manic-depression.html
POhWER - The advocacy agency. This organisation is also known as People of Hertfordshire Want Equal Rights. "Our Mission is to give power to your voice." POhWER now incorporates Equal Voice (Stevenage and North Herts) and Advocacy Now (St Albans). POhWER, 551 Lonsdale Road, Stevenage, Herts SG1 5DZ Tel: 01438 740162.
Funding - Are you a local group run by people with experience of mental health problems? Are you trying to bring about better mental health services or to improve people's attitudes to mental health issues? Do you need money for your running costs like rent, bills and travel? If so then read on! Comic Relief is offering small grants (of up to £5,000) to support user-led mental health groups who can help people with mental health problems to get their voices heard and campaign for change. contact: UK Grants Team, Comic Relief, 5th Floor, 89 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TP Tel: 020 7820 5555.
Pension - Am I entitled to the basic state pension even though I have not always worked? Your contribution record will be credited as having been paid, making you eligible for the basic state pension, if you received any of the following when you were not earning:
• Invalid Care Allowance.
• Disability Working Allowance
• Jobseeker's Allowance.
• Incapacity Benefit
• Severe Disablement Allowance
Plan for the future with the help of a DWP pension forecast. This could be most useful if you expect to be out of employment and on benefits for a prolonged period of time. Tel: 0845 3000 168.
For free advice on pensions including help with problems contact: The Office of the Pensions Advisory Service (OPAS), 11 Belgrave Road, London SW1V 1RB Tel: 0845 601 2923.
Computers for the Disabled is a registered charity, run solely by volunteers. They aim to help disabled people communicate on the internet and participate in electronic activities by recycling computers and accessories e.g. digital cameras. By providing disabled people with extremely low cost computers, the charity is giving them an alternative means of keeping in touch. For more information Tel: 01268 284834 or visit www.cftd.co.uk
What is meant by disability? A disability is a restriction or lack of ability to perform an activity in the manner or within a range considered normal for a human being. A handicap is the disadvantage resulting from an individual form of disability within a specific environment. A person is disabled if:
• They have a mental or physical impairment.
• This has an adverse effect in their ability to carry out normal day to day activities.
• The adverse effect is substantial.
• The adverse effect is long-term (meaning it has lasted for 12 months or is likely to last for more than 12 months or for the rest of their life).
Disability Discrimination Act 1995
Survivors Speak Out was founded in 1986 by a group of mental health service users and workers. The use of the term survivors was chosen to portray a positive image of people in distress and people whose experience differs from, or who dissent from, society's norms. People who use the statutory mental health services are often referred to as patients or users. People who use the voluntary mental health services are often referred to as clients or particularly as members if they have joined the organisation and have voting rights. Some users of mental health services often feel stigmatised and stereotyped by society. The language that people choose can compound this prejudice. Some users find the term 'mental illnes' offensive and as a result may prefer the phrases 'mental distress', 'emotional distress', 'mental health problems' or 'mental health difficulties'. Please be aware of the words you use. Although I am not too fussed about any labels that are applied to me I do believe it is important how we define ourselves.
Disability Politics UK has been set up to enhance the opportunities of disabled people to participate in politics (as a part time member of parliament) via a job share scheme. At present this is illegal but Deborah King has created an e-petition to hopefully influence the decision makers. I urge you to carefully consider to sign her petition "Allow MPs to serve on a job share basis" at:
http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/17076 I have in fact been toying with the idea of being a member of parliament myself. But I don't think I'll bother... the expenses are rubbish ! ;) Seriously though, the topic of disabled people having a proactive role in politics is also supported by the United Nations at their web site:
http://www.un.org/disabilities/default.asp?navid=14&pid=150 It doesn't matter who you vote for... the Government always wins ! ;) You have to laugh... you'd cry if you didn't. Love life, Benefits Bob the Welfare Weasel.
What is a SCAM? - Scheming Crafty Aggressive Malicious. A scam is a scheme to con someone out of their cash. Many scams take the form of bogus and fraudulent offers sent by post, telephone or e-mail. Every year, three million people fall victim to scams, losing an average of £850 each. Fake lottery and prize draw wins, bogus psychic preditions, get-rich-quick investment cons and 'miracle' health cures are just some of the tricks scammers try. Though anyone can fall for a scam, the elderly and vulnerable are more likely to be targeted. Anyone who thinks they have been the victim of a scam, or suspects a scam is being attempted, can contact Consumer Direct on Tel: 08454 04 05 06 for clear, practical advice. For free copies of more information Freephone: 0800 389 3158.
Low cost recycled furniture and "white goods" are offered at: Emmaus St Albans, Hill End Lane, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL4 0FE Tel: 01727 817297. Dacorum Paradise Furniture Project, Paradise Industrial Estate, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4TQ Tel: 01442 241716 / 263197. Special concessions for those on certain benefits.
In this paragraph I am going to jump right in, make a big splash and cool off from the coming heat, so plug your nose and hold on tight. First I am going to show you some real, tangible ways that claiming welfare benefits can make your life a little easier - and more fun - everyday. Then I'm going to top it all off with a shiny cherry of the hottest tip this week. Ssssssss (that's the sound of the tip sizzling). Okay, so there are some serious changes coming to the benefits system but not all of them have arrived yet. DLA yes DLA. If you have not already claimed it then do it NOW! The going rate for DLA with Bipolar is middle rate at £50 per week tax free and does not affect any other benefits. Some people seem to think that it is a good idea to wait for the changes and then claim PIP - Personal Independence Payment. No it's NOT! Most people on DLA will probably be simply transferred to PIP but an intial claim for PIP will be much harder than DLA. Also, make life easier for yourself and Freephone: 0800 88 22 00 and they will post a DLA claim pack to you for free. You can also use that 'phone number to ask a multitude of benefits questions and all for a free call. I have just completed my Limited Work Capability Questionnaire and let me tell you I am now exhausted. It is generally reckoned to be the hardest and most convoluted benefits claim form there has ever been. Now here is the red hot chilli tip: Council Tax - If you are unable / advised not to work, not receiving full Council Tax benefit and receiving a benefit such as Incapacity Benefit, or DLA - Disability Living Allowance at the middle or higher care rate, then hundreds or thousands of pounds in Council Tax can be saved per annum and previous years refunded. You do not have to reapply in future years. People who are "severely mentally impaired" are entitled to various concessions on their Council Tax charges. All councils operate this scheme through the 1992 Local Government Act. This defines severe mental impairment as having "severe impairment of intelligence and social functioning [however caused] which appears to be permanent". If you meet the criteria (Bipolar will do nicely) telephone your Council Tax office to request an application form for Council Tax Discounts / Exemptions with regard to people that have a severe mental impairment. Now do you get it? Get DLA at hopefully middle rate or above, get on the above scheme, no need to reapply, save literally thousands of pounds and even if you are not transferred to PIP you are still a winner!
Let the experts do the work - Are you claiming all the benefits you are entitled to? Don't forget that Carers in Hertfordshire can refer you to the Hertfordshire County Council's Money Advice Unit for a full benefits check for you and/or the person you look after. The world of benefits is so complex, let the experts from the Money Advice Unit guide you through the maze and help with completing the long claim forms. If you would like to have a benefits check, Tel: 01992 586969.
Warm Front is a government sponsored heating initiative for those on benefits. When you join you can get access to free insulation, free energy-efficient bulbs and help if your boiler/heating fails to function. For more information Freephone: 0800 316 2808.
Landmark for online registration. Hundreds of people have used an innovative online form that enables adults to notify Hertfordshire County Council of their disability quickly and easily. Adults who register their disability online are entitled to a bus pass, a disabled rail card, reduction in the cost of a fishing licence and reduced admission charges for many leisure activities including cinemas, concerts and leisure centres. Adults who want to register their disability online can do so by visiting: www.hertsdirect.org/disabledregistration
If you have a low income, you can claim several benefits that can give you a basic amount to live on. To get them, you will need to pass a "means test", so you will have to give details of all your income and savings. If you live with a partner, civil partner, or your husband or wife, their income and savings are also taken into account when deciding if you can get these benefits. For more information contact your local Citizens' Advice Bureau listed in the telephone directory or contact the Benefits Helpline on Freephone 0800 88 22 00. Disabled Persons Railcard
There's great value to be had travelling around Britain with a Disabled Persons Railcard. You'll see some amazing places and save money too. www.disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk
Can I get Carer's Allowance? You may be able to get Carer's Allowance if you:
• are aged 16 or over
• meet conditions about which country you live in
• earn no more than the 'earnings limit' (£95 per week as at 2009)
• are not in full-time education (21 hours or more of supervised study each week) and for at least 35 hours a week, care for someone who is getting:
- Disability Living Allowance at the middle or highest rate for care, or
- Attendance Allowance, or
- Constant Attendance Allowance at or above the normal maximum rate with an Industrial Injuries Disablement or the basic (full-day) rate with a War Disablement Pension.
For Carer's Allowance, a 'week' is seven days, Sunday to Saturday.
So you can still get Carer's Allowance even if you only provide care at weekends. For example, if you care at least 35 hours every weekend for a disabled child who is away during the week, you can still get Carer's Allowance.
You may hve to pay tax on your Carer's Allowance.
The amount of savings you have does not matter for Carer's Allowance.
Visit www.direct.gov.uk and enter 'carer' into the search facility to find more information.
Need a break? Are you caring for someone at home who is elderly or has a disability? Do you worry about leaving the person alone and therefore rarely go out? Do you never have time to relax, time to shop without rushing, time to pursue your own interests or to visit friends? Crossroads is an organisation that can provide relief to the carer. If you would like to know more about the scheme contact: North and North West Herts Crossroads on Tel: 01462 455578.
Should I declare my disability? - This question causes concern for many disabled people who are applying for jobs. Under the Disability Discrimination Act, it is unlawful for employers to discriminate against disabled people in their recruitment and selection procedures. While it is not unlawful to ask questions about a person's health and disability on an application form or to issue a separate health questionnaire, it is unlawful to use the responses to discriminate against anyone. If you feel that you have been discriminated against when applying for a job, please tell a member of the Jobcentre staff. You may have a right to take a case to an employment tribunal. You must make your complaint within three months of the date of the incident that you are complaining about. When employers use application forms which are less than perfect, you may feel reluctant to tell them about your disability. In the end it's up to you, but you should remember the following points:
• If you are asked (in an interview or on an application form) whether you have a health condition or disability, answer in a straightforward way. Make the distinction between a health condition and a disability. If necessary, explain how your disability would affect you in a work environment - or say that it has no practical effect. Talk about your abilities and why you think you are the right person for the job.
• You must tell an employer about a disability if it might present a health and safety risk to yourself or other work colleagues.
• If you sign a declaration saying that you do not have a disability when in fact you do, this may affect your job at a later date.
Remember this web site is only a general guide and not a full and authoritative statement of the law. I have made every effort to make sure that the information on this web site is correct. However, changes in the law make the web site become gradually less accurate. For up-to-date information please contact your local Jobcentre.
Will you get PIP? As we all know Personal Independence Payment replaces Disability Living Allowance in 2013. Those already on DLA will be transferred. If you want a rough idea of your chances that you will get PIP then a good place to start is: Online PIP assesment. With regard to the changes proposed to benefits plans have been made by the Government for at least 13 years that I know about. It doesn't matter who is in power these changes will come regardless. My advice is look after yourself first and make the effort to enhance your situation. Then, when you've done your best for yourself share your knowledge with your fellow mental health services users. It is most unlikely that we will change the Government's plans but we can all work together to optimise our chances of making an effective claim for benefits. Typical advice is to get a certificate of posting (free at the Post Office counter) when you send your claim form in. If the DWP lose your claim form you can prove you sent it in and ask that your money is back dated to when you did send it in. This simple tactic could save you £££s in back payment from the DWP - Department for Work & Pensions. Source: Benny Fitz.
The Power to Work Project is a 26 week programme for those in receipt of Incapacity Benefit or other associated benefits such as Income Support or Credits of National Insurance contributions for reasons of incapacity e.g. mental health conditions. A variety of skills training and support is offered at: Careers Development Group, 1st floor, 62 The Parade, Watford, Herts WD17 1AZ Tel: 01923 222128.
More Helplines - I have been told, by someone I trust, that the magic phrase to use if you really need to see a doctor is; "It is imperative that I am seen by a doctor."
Please find below information to access out of hours care. If all else fails then present yourself to nearest Accident & Emergency.
Herts Urgent Care - Patient Line. Freephone: 03000 33 33 33.
Mental Health Helpline provided by Hertfordshire Partnership Foundation Trust (HPFT) is available to all their service users and carers who need it. Offering advice and telephone support from mental health professionals, outside normal working hours, it is available via Tel: 01438 843322. Hours of opening: 5:00pm - 9:00am Mondays to Fridays, 24 hours round the clock at weekends and on Bank Holidays. During normal weekday working hours service users needing advice should call their local community mental health team.
Background: - For a long time, service users and carers have said that they needed a number to call when mental health services are closed. The good news is that HPFT has responded and set up a new out-of-hours help line. A trained mental health professional will answer your call. If it cannot be taken immediately, you will be able to leave a message on an answerphone. The mental health professional should call you back within an hour. If your first language is not English, staff will be able to arrange for an interpreter to translate for you.
Information: - The helpline is essentially a telephone advice and support service. For example, you may want to know more about medication or local services or you may need some support if you are not feeling well or if you are worried about someone you care for or need more help as a carer. However, if you are having a crisis or an emergency when you telephone, the helpline staff will make sure you receive the help you need.
NHS Helpline - If you are feeling distressed or need urgent help, contact the Mental Health Information Line: Freephone 0800 616171. Provided by Coventry Healthcare NHS Trust.
New NHS Service - From Monday 1 June 2009 two new NHS services are open to the people of Hertfordshire. West Herts Medical Centre Tel: 03000 33 22 33 in Hemel Hempstead and Spring House Medical Centre Tel: 01707 294 354 in Welwyn Garden City will enable patients to see a GP or nurse from 8am to 8pm, every day of the year.
These new facilities are additional GP surgeries and are open to everyone. The new centres offer:
• Pre-booked appointments to people registered with the centre
• Pre-booked appointments to people not registered with the centre
• A walk-in service for anyone (no appointment needed)
West Herts Medical Centre is located in the Jubilee Wing of Hemel Hempstead Hospital and is run by Herts Urgent Care on behalf of NHS West Hertfordshire.
Spring House Medical Centre can be found on Ascots Lane, close to the QEII Hospital and is run by Ephedra Healthcare, a consortium of local GPs, on behalf of NHS East and North Hertfordshire.
For more information about the new centres click on the respective weblinks above.
NHS Direct is a professional 24 hour advice and health information service. Most useful for a wide range of concerns and access to local support groups. Calls are charged at local rate. Tel: 0845 4647.
Exploding Water in the Microwave
Did you know that heating water in the microwave can actually be dangerous? This is a warning to help you avoid a potential disaster. The American Burn Association has identified scald burns from superheated liquids in microwaves as a target for a new public awareness campaign... "Water alone should never be heated in a microwave." Here's why...
This is an all too common example of what can happen. A man decided to have a cup of instant coffee, so he heated a cup of water in the microwave. When the timer went off, he removed the cup from the microwave and noticed that the water had not boiled.
Just then, the water literally "blew up" in his face. His whole face was blistered with first and second degree burns, which left some permanent scarring and damage to his left eye. While at the hospital, the doctor attending him stated that his is a fairly common occurrence. Water (alone) should never be heated in a microwave oven.
Why? This phenomenon is known as superheating. It can occur anytime water is heated - especially if the cup or bowl is new. What happens is that the water heats faster than the vapour bubbles can form. If the cup is new, then it is unlikely to have small surface scratches in it that provide a place for the bubbles to form.
Without bubbles, the water cannot release the heat that has built up, the liquid does not boil and it continues to heat up past its boiling point. If the water is bumped or jarred, it's enough of a shock to cause the bubbles to rapidly form and the result is an exploding liquid that is scalding hot. One solution is to place a wooden stir stick or something non-metallic in the water to help diffuse the energy as it is heating in the microwave
Dr. Gordon Lindberg, MD, PhD, and director of the burn unit at University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, agrees that the phenomenon of superheated liquids is a real problem. According to Dr. Lindberg, the American Burn Association has identified scald burns from superheated liquids in microwaves as a target for a new public awareness campaign.
"These burns are dramatic and traumatic because they often affect the face and hands of the burn victim. Fortunately, these burns rarely need grafting; however, they are extremely painful and in children these burns often lead to hospitalization for wound care and pain control. The best way to avoid these burns is to place a wooden coffee stirrer in the liquid when heating it and also to let all heated liquids cool for a few minutes inside the microwave before removing them."
If you receive one of these burns, and especially if it covers the face or hands, seek a burn care specialist for care. Initial treatment for the burn can be performed in an Emergency Department or at a doctor's office, but a burn specialist should see the burn within 24-48 hours after the injury, especially if the face is involved. If the eyes are involved, an ophthalmologist should be consulted immediately.
Tomatoes - I believe that natural and processed tomatoes (containing lycopene) can be beneficial to my health especially with regard to the possible avoidance of cancer. I often have a glass of tomato juice first thing in the morning. I can't prove it but I do it because I like it.
£££s saving top tip - If you are reading this at home on a personal computer then chances are that you have a printer and will find this tip useful. Rather than just click on the print icon press Ctrl and P together on your keyboard. This will bring up your printer dialogue box. Select "Properties" and then select "Quick Print". When you press "Print" you will use roughly half the amount of ink. You may select "Apply" to ensure that all further prints are economy. I use "Quick Print" for day to day letters (even if they may be photocopied later then "Quick Print" is still adequate), "Normal" for monochrome photographs and "Best" for colour photographs. Using this tip could double the life of your ink cartridges.
A Word About Funding - Please note that Mental Health Survival Guide does not and has never received grants from pharmaceutical companies. I have never been asked to represent any pharmaceutical company or give any speeches for a pharmaceutical company nor does my web site receive advertising pounds from any company.
Useful Numbers & Information from Momotaz Rahim
St Albans District Council: 01727 866100
Refuse Collection St Albans: 01727 819285
Herts County Council: 01438 737555
NHS Direct - Tel: 0845 4647
Police Non Emergency number: 101
National Gas Emergency Service: Freephone 0800 111 999. If you smell gas anywhere.
Traveline: 0871 200 22 33 For advice about public transport locally or anywhere in the UK.
Shelterline: Freephone 0808 800 4444 Legal and Advice Line for Housing problems
Citizens Advice Bureau: Callcentre 0844 411 1444
Nappy Collection Service - St Albans District Council offers a nappy sack collection service. There is a weekly service and a fortnightly service. The weekly service costs £19.50 for six months. Collection day is Tuesday and bags need to be at the boundary of the property by 7am. Fortnightly collections - The council sends out a roll of white sacks which can only be used for nappies and these need to be placed next to the refuse bin on collection day. These are free. Please contact St Albans District Council to request the service on Tel: 01727 866100.
Potholes / Pavement faults - If you see a pot hole or a pavement fault report it to Herts Highways either on line at Herts County Council: or by telephoning 0300 123 4047.
FORWARD - The Bipolar Social Enterprise is launching it's new web site and a book. Be sure to check back soon for more information. Sign up for their free newsletter and receive frequent bulletins. Join by e-mail:
with 'SUBSCRIBE' in the Subject. They will not pass on your details to other organisations.
Hitler wasn't all bad... he was just misunderstood? - Some sections of the press and media have used distorted figures and statistics from the Department of Work and Pensions to portray all disabled benefit claimants as 'scroungers' and criminals. Failing to report that the qualifying rules have changed and that many being found 'fit for work' would have qualified under the old rules and that the majority of those who take their case to appeal have the decision overturned and their benefit rights re established. This kind of distorted and prejudicial reporting has led to a recorded increase in the incidence of 'hate crime' against sick and disabled people by people who resent their receiving benefits.
This has chilling echo's of the 1930's when the Nazi's put out propaganda newsreels showing images of sick and disabled people labelled as 'useless eaters' saying that these 'genetic degenerates' were costing the taxpayer money and using this to justify their extermination as part of the 'final solution'. People labelled 'mad' were amongst the first to be exterminated with those responsible even deeming this as 'humane'.
People with mental health problems have always been a victim of prejudice and stigma, this is now on the increase again with some irresponsible members of society seeming to promote a fascist mentality where the needy are deemed as 'unproductive' and 'surplus to requirements'. Source: MAD PRIDE.
For these reasons I reluctantly have to advise all mental patients (in the spirit of mental health survival) to keep a low profile and especially avoid all devious publicity e.g. video cameras at conferences.
All expressions in this communication are personal opinions of myself the author (not aware of violating © Copyright but will delete if brought to attention) and do not represent a commitment. Contents for private study use only. External hypertext links from this web site are of concern to me upon receiving notification that they connect to inappropriate content. Advice of errors, broken links or any persistent dysfunctional operation of this web site welcome via my Guestbook. Thank you to all who have contributed their tips and information to this online resource.
ENSUP - European Network of (Ex-) Users and Survivors of Psychiatry. The information that ENSU provide is but just a snippet that reflects the concern that some people have regarding psychiatric care in Europe. Whilst here in UK we may complain about our coffee being served cold in a NHS - National Health Service psychiatric hospital ("Outrageous!" I hear you exclaim) just think again, as you read information supplied by ENSUP, about what may be happening in other less well known institutions some of which may be uncomfortably close to home. Call me a wimp but the information available via ENSUP web site is truly distressing for me to read any more so I will not burden you with it here. If you really do want to pursue the information then you may access it via their web site www.enusp.org. It was not a bad thing that I read the ENSU web site on what is happening in other countries with regard to psychiatric care (or rather the lack of it in some locations) but it has left me drained. A while ago I made friends with Mariana from Bulgaria. When I asked her what the care was like in her country it wasn't what she did say but what she didn't say but more than that it was the way she didn't say it so I did not raise the issue again. Similarly I met Anastasia a student psychologist from Moscow. She filled me in with information regarding the rural areas of Russia. If you live in the rural areas you have to pay for your own medication...if you can get it. Consequently most psychiatirc patients in rural Russia self medicate on vodka. I believe that in some remote parts of the world they just dig a deep hole and put you in it, give you food and water and there you stay - allegedly. But then, if they do not have access to modern psychiatric resources what else can they do I ask myself. Until relatively recently we had padded cells in UK. I made friends with Nigel who explained what it was like to be in a padded cell as he had been in one in Hill End Hospital during the 1970s. The tears were standing in his eyes... I'm taking some time out. Love life, Benefits Bob the Welfare Weasel.
GLobal Mental Health - The Movement for Global Mental Health aims to improve services for people with mental disorders worldwide.
Herts R.I.T.E. - Herts R.I.T.E. is delivered by a Consortium of three Hertfordshire-based charities. This partnership working means that R.I.T.E. has many years of substance misuse, mental health and training knowledge to draw from, as well as a variety of skilled trainers to deliver our courses.
MAKING WAVES - challenging ideas about madness
Mental Health Forum - This a user-led forum which addresses all aspects of different types of mental health conditions.
MENTAL HEALTH HELPLINE - For advice and telephone support from a mental health professional out-of-hours call: 01438 843322. This pro-active service is provided by Hertfordshire Partnership Foundation Trust. I've used it myself and found it to be exemplary.
Mental Health Research Network - Mental health research can help all of us.
Mind - The National Organisation. Visit their web site and enter your post code to find your local Mind Association. Access The Big Book of Benefits & Mental Health - "If you have a mental health problem and are trying to cope with the benefits system there is no better guide that you can buy..." Community Care Magazine.
Mind In Mid Herts - St Albans, Stevenage & Hertford
NSUN - National Survivor User Network. Share......Speak up.....Support
NetDoctor.co.uk - The UK's leading independent health website.
Organ Donor Registration NHS - Would you take an organ if you needed one? 96% of us would. Have you joined the Organ Donor Register? Only 29% of us have. If you believe in organ donation, prove it. Register now at www.organdonation.nhs.uk Tel: 0300 123 23 23.
POhWER - The advocacy agency. Welcome to the website of POhWER, advocacy, making your voice heard.
psychminded.co.uk - for all who work in psychology, psychiatry and mental health.
PSYweb - information on mental health disorders including Depression, Anxiety, Biopolar, OCD and more.
Rethink Mental Illness - Help & Hope. Rethink, for everyone affected by schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and other mental illnesses
Remploy - Whatever your employment goals, Remploy will give you all the support you need to achieve them. We work with many of the UK's best employers to help them understand disability. Companies large and small work with us to recruit people into all types of jobs.
Social Spider - Social Spider is a social enterprise that makes projects happen.
SUNLOWS - This website has been created by Service Users' to inform Service Users and Carers' of what is happening in relation to mental health research in North West London, West London, Barnet, Enfield and Haringey, East London, North East London, Hertfordshire, North and South Essex, Berkshire and Oxford.
Swing - Your local bipolar / manic depression support group based in Hemel Hempstead, Dacorum.
time to change - Let's end mental health discrimination together.
together - FOR MENTAL WELLBEING. Together is a national charity working alongside people with mental health issues on their journey to leading fulfilling and independent lives.
ViewPoint - Would you like to help to make mental health services in Hertfordshirebetter well? Then ViewPoint would like to hear from you. ViewPoint exists to empower and support people who use or have used mental health services to be part of the decision making process.
U3A - University of the 3rd Age - U3As are self-help, self-managed lifelong learning co-operatives for older people no longer in full time work, providing opportunities for their members to share learning experiences in a wide range of interest groups and to pursue learning not for qualifications, but for fun.
Wish - A voice for women's mental health.
There's a lot of complacency among services users. For example many people assume that they will automatically qualify for all benefits regardless of their National Insurance contributions record. The consequences of being ignorant of the benefits rules can be detrimental to your financial health for the rest of your life. Optimism bias is no substitute for the expertise of a Welfare Rights Worker via the Citizens Advice Bureau - "Confidential advice for claiming benefits" - Tel: 08 444 111 444.
Well Being - I associate being well with drinking copious amounts of water daily usually when waking up in the morning. Water on its own is boring and also too much water on its own can deplete salts in one's body and even cause death in extrememe circumstances. So I drink diluted fruit juice and weak Barley Cup hot drink. (I use Barley Cup from Holland & Barrett to avoid caffeine.) I believe that water is good for me generally. It is essential. I also believe that dehydration can predispose one into mental illness. My urine should be pale lemon. If it's darker than that I know to drink more water. Fluids++. Second to the water I associate being well with my medication. Also, gainful employment is beneficial to my health. Generally, you can work to varying degrees (paid and voluntary) whilst receiving welfare benefits. You need information to make a decision on this matter. A good place to start is: Disability Alliance.
Influenza - I believe that influenza can be deleterious to my mental health. It may be debilitating to my mood through exhaustion and/or sleep disruption and affect the efficiency of my medications through sweating, vomiting and diarrhoea. The combination of all these factors may predispose me to an episode of severe mental impairment. Influenza may precipitate me into a lingering malaise and recovery through convalescence could take a long time. Consequently, I want to avoid the aches, pains and fevers of flu and the difficulties it brings to my well-being. For most people, flu will just make them feel miserable but they will get better on their own after the virus runs its course. But if you have a medical condition which puts you in the 'at risk' category you are more at risk of becoming very unwell because of flu. I request flu vaccinations every Autumn in the belief that they benefit my health. Also, my having the flu vaccination may benefit other people as I am one less person to pass the flu on. I can't prove my belief, I have no statistics, it is just the way that I feel. As a self employed sole trader I simply can't afford not to pay the £20 to have the flu vaccination administered to me privately. If you live alone you may be especially at risk without someone to care for you and give you drinks and such like. You could die of dehydration. This Winter 2011/2012 the influenza virus is predicted to be particularly virulent. If you ask your GP practice nurse nicely she might give you the influenza vaccination for free. You have to look after your body... it's the only place you have to live. Some people stay the same, miss the changes, won't face up to them and leave the future up for grabs. Individual ambition serves the common good. I am most fortunate to receive care that enhances my life. Stay well.
Beware Caffeine ! - Caffeine can affect the Lithium level in your body if you are on Lithium medication. It is generally accepted that the therapeutic level for Lithium medication is 0.4 to 0.8. Any lower than 0.4 and the dose becomes ineffective and you may become ill. Any higher than 0.8 and the dose becomes toxic and yes you guessed it, you may become ill. My consultant psychiatrist was concerned that my Lithium level had dropped to 0.45 over the period of a year. In passing he mentioned that caffeine could affect the Lithium level. My wife said: "He's drinking decaffeintaed coffee so that's alright." Doctor: "No, you will be lucky to get half the caffeine removed with decaff." Me: "Well, Earl Grey is weak so that's okay." Doctor: "Earl Grey as well." So I've stopped consuming products with caffeine e.g. tea, coffee, cola and choclolate. Subsequently I had a blood test and the level returned to normal at 0.63 - middle of the range. Well, I'm glad we got that sorted out!
Bob's tips for a good night's sleep. - Avoid caffeine like the plague all day and every day. That means no tea, no coffee of any kind, no chocolate and no cola etc. Endeavour to calm yourself down before bedtime. Don't take exercise in the evening. Video screens e.g. television and PC monitors can aggravate you with their indiscernible flicker due to their construction and operation. Record your evening programmes and watch them in the daytime. Similarly use PC for e-mails and browsing during the daytime. No eating or drinking after your evening meal except of course a small drink of water to accompany night time medication. This will reduce the likely hood of stomach activity and you will not require to get up in the middle of the night to use the toilet. Make your bedroom a place of rest. Not too hot. A cool bedroom is better for sleep than a hot one. 18ºC is ideal. I have a CD player with gentle instrumental music to soothe me to sleep. Avoid watching TV, eating and discussing emotional issues in bed. The bed should be used for sleep and making love only. If not, you can end up associating the bed with distracting activities that could make it difficult for you to fall asleep. Keep a regular sleep schedule. Follow these tips and there's a good chance that you will sleep like a baby all the way through the night and awake refreshed.
Table salt can affect lithium level blood test result as used for treatment of bipolar. When the body takes in table salt it may detect that it has too much and tries to compensate by excreting the therapeutic lithium salt. Changing your intake of table salt can affect your lithium treatment for bipolar / manic depression.
Medication - ALWAYS TAKE A COLD DRINK WITH TABLETS - Many tablets e.g. Lithium are 'slow release' that means they have a delayed adsorption rate coating that is undermined when taken with a hot drink. Always take tablets with a cold drink. Also avoid "sparkling" effervescent drinks "with bubbles" as I believe they can affect the absorption rate of medication. Some people say: "Take it easy". I don't care how I take it just so long as I do take it.
My mom used to insist that I take vitamins. I asked my doctor about this and he said: "Well, they won't do you any harm." So to keep my mom happy I take vitamin pills. When the time came for me to take Lithium I decided that I should consider it as a dietary supplement like vitamins. After all Lithium is a naturally occurring salt (Lithium Carbonate).
I believe that my bipolar affective disorder is predominantly a genetic issue. Metaphorically speaking; Genetics load the gun and enviromental factors pull the trigger. My lithium medication appears to enhance the functioning of my brain so it is a good thing that I take it. After all, why should I settle for what I was born with?
Thinking of coming off your psychiatric medication cold - turkey without medical supervision? Think again! I'm not a doctor or a nurse I am a services user just like yourself. I have met several fellow patients who discarded their medication and they all ended up back in a mental hospital. Don't let it happen to you. You might do it once, twice, maybe thrice but after that you will probably damage yourself and forever be a burden to your family and the National Health Service. You won't get back what you have lost. Generally, most psychiatric medications don't cure the illness they just mask the symptoms. It is your right to refuse medication but you should tell your doctor of your intention so that all of the options open to you can be discussed. Freephone: CALM - Campaign Against Living Miserably on 0800 58 58 58 to talk to a mental health care professional anonymously. All of the above represents my personal opinions only. Best wishes and stay well, Benefits Bob the Welfare Weasel.
Say no to that joint my friend. The Home Office is responding to new research evidence from Holland which links cannabis with an increased risk of mental illness e.g. schizophrenia. "Development of psychosis harm from the use of cannabis is four times higher for the 10% of the population predisposed to it." Source: Professor Jim Van-Oss of Maastricht University. Mental health charities have welcomed moves to promote a review of information and to bring attention to higher strengths of cannabis known as skunk. "More and more people with mental health difficulties are using cannabis and we can see a direct link between cannabis and their problems." Source: Mental Health Community. Hash, bhang, black, blast, reefer, joint, blow, dope, ganga, grass, marijuana call it what you will cannabis is not as benign as previously thought. "Don't take cannabis." Source: Psychiatrist.
Promote Dental Hygiene Campaign - Depressed mental patients' possible self neglect regarding poor dental hygiene leading to gum recession and eventual loss of teeth is a worthwhile campaign issue. This campaign is I believe achieveable, non political, of timeless value, virtually free and of benefit to many psychiatric patients. I am presently pursuing this campaign via my web site, the mental health forums I attend and talking to anybody who will listen. You can make a difference; join the campaign now by protecting your teeth from gum recession and propagating the knowledge. Toothbrushes are available, to patients in National Health Service psychiatric hospitals, on request to the staff.
Many mental patients lose their teeth because they are predisposed to self neglect. When ill and left to my own devices I tend to self neglect. Good dental hygiene is important for healthy teeth and gums. A dental hygienist has advised me that some people need help with brushing their teeth. An electric toothbrush may be appropriate providing it is used gently. I use the Oral-B Professional Care 7000 electric toothbrush (Which? best buy) powered by Braun, available from Boots or Superdrug on special offer for just £33 (was £45) and replacement FlexiSoft brushheads only cost £3·50 each. It removes plaque efficiently. I love it! :) p.s. Remember to floss. I use Oral-B Essential Floss twice a week together with Oral-B, or Listerine, mouth rinse available from Superdrug and Boots. Helps me to do more to keep my teeth and gums healthy.
My professional patient duties are:
• Diligently take my medication
• Drink plenty of water to flush out medication toxins
• Maintain my dental hygiene
Issues such as a dishevelled appearance are relatively trivial and will be resolved with time.
Interestingly I attended a ViewPoint meeting recently and dental hygiene was raised as an issue. The comment was that there needs to be an enhanced promotion of personal and dental hygiene to allow people to be more acceptable in society. Often it is easy to correct a dishevelled appearance but it takes a lot longer, if ever, to repair damaged teeth and gums. Prevention is better than cure. For many psychiatric patients, who are fortunate enough to receive help, their mental health will improve significantly. Upon recovery you will be thankful that you persevered with your dental hygiene régime. Be true to your teeth or they'll be false to you.
Survival On A Psychiatric Ward - NHS psychiatric wards are notorious for their shortage of bath plugs. Always carry a bath plug with you in case you are admitted. You can make new friends by lending it out to fellow patients.
If you wake up in the middle of the night on a NHS psychiatric ward ask for a warm milky drink. The staff are trained to provide this service. Requests for cups of tea or coffee may be curtly refused especially when you consider that caffeine inhibits sleep whilst warm milk is beneficial. If preparing a warm milky drink at home I find that a microwaveable mug of milk heated at 800W E full power for 1½ minutes and then stirred, works well for me. When using a microwave oven protect your eyes as some liquids may "explode" if very hot.
No coins to telephone a friend then dial: 0800 REVERSE where REVERSE = 7383773 for a reverse charge call.
The Big Book of Benefits and Mental Health - Judy Stenger. Exclusively available from Mind this manual contains user-friendly hints, information, examples, tips, tactics and sample forms. Aimed at people with mental health problems and those who help with benefits applications and challenging decisions. To order call Mind publications on 0844 448 4448 or shop online at www.mind.org.uk/shop. "An essential piece of kit for all community mental health teams, community psychiatric nurses, approved social workers and voluntary groups as well as general benefit advisers... If you have a mental health problem and are trying to cope with the benefit system or if you are a professional who wants to give good solid advice there is no better guide that you can buy..." Community Care Magazine
Useful Phrases when completing benefit claim forms or being interviewed by benefit officials; "It is often useful to apply a liberal sprinkling of words such as; caring, support and health." Source: Support Worker. Here are some examples of useful phrases that can help to fill up those irksome blank white areas on a claim form: "I believe that leaving my employment has benefited my health. I accept the changes to my medication as prescribed by the doctors." Source: Community Psychiatric Nurse. "I require a caring, supportive environment that promotes my health. I trust that I have found it." Source: Social Worker. "The benefits help to take away the pressure for me to go to work." Source: Keyworker. "I've had this condition a number of years. Please consider an indefinite award of benefit." Source: Department for Work and Pensions officer. Learn these phrases along with your National Insurance number. Fail to prepare... prepare to fail.
Tips for submitting benefit claims to the DWP - Department for Work & Pensions. It is not unknown for the DWP to lose benefit claim forms. We're all human after all. You could prove that you sent your form in using Recorded and even Special Delivery but they cost money. A free alternative that gives you some ability to prove that you did in fact post your claim form is to ask for a Certificate of Posting at the post office. Being able to confirm that you did send in your claim form on time may entitle you to having your claim back-dated so that you do not lose out on your money. It is most useful for your claim to securely attach letters to your form such as medical report from your doctor. Do not send the originals but keep them safe and send in photocopies. Each page of your letters should have your full name and National Insurance number written on them prominately at the top and preferably highlighted. Remember to photocopy everything that you send to the DWP so that you can refer to it later if your claim form does get lost and you have to complete the form again and also if you do submit further information later you can ensure that you do not contradict yourself. If you have to go through the appeal procedure a photocopy of your form will help you prepare. With regard to securing letters to my claim forms I use a heavy duty Rexel paper punch cost about £20 from Rymans Stationery shop. It is capable of punching up to eighty sheets of paper in one go so it is ideal for my purpose. When all the pages of the claim form and letters are punched with holes I attach Ryman's self-adhesive ring reinforcements to every sheet. Then I secure all the pages together with tax tags. These are green twine with metal ends and also available from Rymans or any other stationery shop. It is most important that you give claiming your rightful entitlement to benefits your best effort first time so that the authorities can award you the money you deserve without you having to burden the system with an appeal.
All the information on this web site represents my personal opinions only. I strenuously advise you to seek professional advice with regard to your entitlements e.g. CAB - Citizens Advice Bureau Tel: 08 444 111 444 - Confidential advice for claiming benefits.
Suicide Prevention
This time of the year (Christmas) can be particularly challenging for people with bipolar manic depression, especially those who find themselves alone over the seasonal holidays. With this in mind Jonathan Ashby tackles a sensitive subject in the hope that the following information proves to be of value to all our readers.
Understanding and Helping a Suicidal Person - A suicidal person may not ask for help, but that doesn't mean that help isn't wanted. Most people who commit suicide don't want to die - they just want to stop hurting. Suicide prevention starts with recognizing the warning signs and taking them seriously.
If you think a friend or family member is considering suicide, you might be afraid to bring up the subject. But talking openly about suicidal thoughts and feelings can save a life. Speak up if you're concerned and seek professional help immediately. Through understanding, reassurance and support, you can help your loved one overcome thoughts of suicide.
Understanding and preventing suicide - The World Health Organization estimates that approximately one million people die each year from suicide. What drives so many individuals to take their own lives? To those not in the grips of suicidal depression and despair, it's difficult to understand. But a suicidal person is in so much pain that he or she can see no other option.
Suicide is a desperate attempt to escape suffering that has become unbearable. Blinded by feelings of self-loathing, hopelessness, and isolation, a suicidal person can't see any way of finding relief except through death. But despite their desire for the pain to stop, most suicidal people are deeply conflicted about ending their own lives. They wish there was an alternative to committing suicide, but they just can't see one.
As a result of their ambivalence about dying, suicidal individuals usually give warning signs or signals of their intentions. The best way to prevent suicide is to know and watch for these warning signs and to get involved if you spot them. If you believe that a friend or family member is suicidal, you can play a role in suicide prevention by pointing out the alternatives, showing that you care and getting a doctor or psychologist involved.
Common Misconceptions about Suicide:
FALSE: People who talk about suicide won't really do it. Almost everyone who commits or attempts suicide has given some clue or warning. Do not ignore suicide threats. Statements like "you'll be sorry when I'm dead," "I can't see any way out," - no matter how casually or jokingly said may indicate serious suicidal feelings.
FALSE: Anyone who tries to kill him/herself must be crazy. Most suicidal people are not psychotic or insane. They must be upset, grief-stricken, depressed or despairing, but extreme distress and emotional pain are not necessarily signs of mental illness.
FALSE: If a person is determined to kill him/herself, nothing is going to stop him/her. Even the most severely depressed person has mixed feelings about death, wavering until the very last moment between wanting to live and wanting to die. Most suicidal people do not want death; they want the pain to stop. The impulse to end it all, however overpowering, does not last forever.
FALSE: People who commit suicide are people who were unwilling to seek help. Studies of suicide victims have shown that more than half had sought medical help within six month before their deaths.
FALSE: Talking about suicide may give someone the idea. You don't give a suicidal person ideas by talking about suicide. The opposite is true - bringing up the subject of suicide and discussing it openly is one of the most helpful things you can do.
Warning signs of suicide - Suicide prevention begins with an awareness of the warning signs of suicidal thoughts and feelings. Major warning signs for suicide include talking about killing or harming oneself, talking or writing a lot about death or dying and seeking out things that could be used in a suicide attempt, such as weapons and drugs. Take any suicidal talk or behavior seriously. It's not just a warning sign that the person is thinking about suicide - it's a cry for help.
A more subtle but equally dangerous warning sign of suicide is hopelessness. Studies have found that hopelessness is a strong predictor of suicide. People who feel hopeless may talk about "unbearable" feelings, predict a bleak future, and state that they have nothing to look forward to.
Other warning signs that point to a suicidal mind frame include dramatic mood swings or sudden personality changes, such as going from outgoing to withdrawn or well-behaved to rebellious. A suicidal person may also lose interest in day-to-day activities, neglect his or her appearance and show big changes in eating or sleeping habits.
Suicide Warning Signs
Talking about suicide - Any talk about suicide, dying, or self-harm. Includes statements such as "I wish I hadn't been born," "If I see you again...," "I want out," and "I'd be better off dead."
Seeking out lethal means - Looking for ways to commit suicide. Seeking access to guns, pills, knives, or other objects that could be used in a suicide attempt.
Preoccupation with death - Unusual focus on death, dying, or violence. Writing poems or stories about death.
No hope for the future - Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and being trapped ("There's no way out"). Belief that things will never get better or change. Self-loathing, selfhatred, feelings of worthlessness, guilt and shame. Feeling like a burden ("Everyone would be better off without me").
Getting affairs in order - Making out a will. Giving away prized possessions. Making arrangements for family members.
Saying goodbye - Unusual or unexpected visits or calls to family and friends. Saying goodbye to people as if they won't be seen again.
Withdrawing from others - Withdrawing from friends and family. Increasing social isolation. Desire to be left alone.
Taking unnecessary risks - Self-destructive Increased alcohol or drug use, reckless behaviour driving, unsafe sex, as if they have a "death wish".
Sudden sense of calm - A sudden sense of calm and happiness after being extremely depressed can mean that the person has made a decision to commit suicide.
Suicide prevention tip number one: Speak up if you're worried. If you spot the warning signs of suicide in someone you care about, you may wonder if it's a good idea to say anything. What if you're wrong? What if the person gets angry? Even worse, what if you plant the idea in your friend or family member's head? In such situations, it's natural to feel uncomfortable or afraid. But anyone who talks about suicide or shows other warning signs needs immediate help - the sooner the better.
Talking to a person about suicide - If you're unsure whether someone is suicidal, the best way to find out is to ask. You can't make a person suicidal by showing that you care. In fact, giving the individual the opportunity to express his or her feelings may prevent a suicide attempt. The person may even be relieved that you brought up the issue.
Here are some questions you can ask:
• Have you ever thought that you'd be better off dead or that if you died, it wouldn't matter?
• Have you thought about harming yourself?
• Are you thinking about suicide?
Suicide hotlines to call for help:
Samaritans - Helpline: 08457 909090 (UK) or 1850 60 90 90 (Republic of Ireland) Local rate 24 hours daily.
Papyrus - A voluntary organisation committed to the prevention of young suicide and the promotion of mental health and wellbeing. Contact: 08000 68 4141 or 01978 367333.
Childline - Helpline: 0800 1111. Childline is the free, confidential, 24-hour helpline for any child with any problem. Lines can be busy so keep trying.
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) Helpline: 0870 2413 337 (9am-9pm daily) Aims to provide a safe, confidential environment in which bereaved people can share their experiences and feelings, so giving and gaining support from each other.
Suicide prevention tip number 2: Respond quickly in a crisis. If a friend or family member tells you that he or she is thinking about death or suicide, it's important to evaluate the immediate danger the person is in. Those at the highest risk for committing suicide in the near future have a specific suicide plan, the means to carry out the plan, a time schedule for doing it, and an intention to do it.
Level of Suicide Risk
Low - Some suicidal thoughts. No suicide plan. Says he or she won't commit suicide.
Moderate - Suicidal thoughts. Vague plan that isn't very lethal. Says he or she won't commit suicide.
High - Suicidal thoughts. Specific plan that is highly lethal. Says he or she won't commit suicide.
Severe - Suicidal thoughts. Specific plan that is highly lethal. Says he or she will commit suicide.
The following questions can help you assess the immediate risk for suicide:
• Do you have a suicide plan?
• Do you have what you need to carry out your plan (pills, gun, etc.)?
• Do you know when you would do it?
• Do you intend to commit suicide?
If a suicide attempt seems imminent, call a local crisis centre, dial 999, or take the person to an emergency room. Do not, under any circumstances, leave a suicidal person alone. It's also wise to remove, drugs, knives, and other potentially lethal objects from the vicinity. In some cases, involuntary hospitalisation may be necessary to keep the person safe and prevent a suicide attempt.
Suicide prevention tip number three: Offer help and support. If a friend or family member is suicidal, the best way to help is by offering an empathetic, listening ear. Let your loved one know that he or she is not alone and that you care. Don't take responsibility, however, for making your loved one well. You can offer support, but you can't get better for a suicidal person. He or she has to make a personal commitment to recovery. As you're helping a suicidal person, don't forget to take care of yourself. Find someone that you trust - a friend, family member, clergyman, or counsellor - to talk to about your feelings and get support of your own.
Helping a suicidal person:
• Listen without judgement - Let a suicidal person express his or her feelings and accept those feelings without judging or discounting them. Don't act shocked, lecture on the value of life, or say that suicide is wrong.
• Offer hope - Reassure the person that help is available and that the suicidal feelings are temporary. Don't dismiss the pain he or she feels, but talk about the alternatives to suicide and let the person know that his or her life is important to you.
• Don't promise confidentiality - Refuse to be sworn to secrecy. A life is at stake and you may need to speak to a mental health professional in order to keep the suicidal person safe. If you promise to keep your discussions secret, you may have to break your word.
• Get professional help - Do everything in your power to get a suicidal person the help he or she needs. Call a crisis line for advice and referrals. Encourage the person to see a mental health professional, help locate a treatment facility, or take them to a doctor's appointment.
• Make a plan for life - Help the person develop a "Plan for Life," a set of steps he or she promises to follow during a suicidal crisis. It should include contact numbers for the person's doctor or therapist, as well as friends and family members who will help in an emergency.
Risk factors for suicide - At least 90 percent of all people who commit suicide suffer from depression, alcoholism, or a combination of mental disorders. Depression in particular plays a large role in suicide. The difficulty suicidal people have imagining a solution to their suffering is due in part to the distorted thinking caused by depression.
Antidepressants and Suicide - Overall, the risk of suicide is lower in people taking antidepressants for depression. But for some, antidepression medication causes an increase rather than a decrease in depression and suicidal thoughts and feelings. As a result of this risk, anyone on antidepressants should be watched for increases in suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Monitoring is especially important if this is the person's first time on depression medication or if the dose has recently been changed. The risk of suicide is the greatest during the first two months of antidepressant treatment.
Common suicide risk factors include:
• Mental illness
• Alcoholism or drug abuse
• Previous suicide attempts
• Family history of suicide
• Terminal illness or chronic pain
• Recent loss or stressful life event
• Social isolation and loneliness
• History of trauma or abuse
AND FINALLY, SOME CALM - The Campaign Against Living Miserably is an initiative by the Department of Health to help alleviate suffering caused by suicidal thoughts, mental illness and drug dependency. The CALM campaign is targeted at men in the age range 15 to 35 years, but the helpline is open to anyone. Everyone who calls will receive an equal service regardless of age, gender, cultural background or sexuality. Originally based in Manchester it is now available nationwide 5:00pm to 12:00am Saturday to Tuesday. If you need to speak to a counsellor Freephone: 0800 585858. Calls to CALM on a landline are free, confidential and anonymous and they don't show up on landline telephone bills.
How much does Mental Health Survival Guide cost? - This Mental Health Survival Guide web site is free (to all users). Free to access, free to read, free to print, free to upload, free to download, free to host, free to link, just Free. In other words, it is free, zero cost, nada, no hidden fees, free. For more information, read the Fine Print: free, free, free, free, free!
The Cross Street Centre - Alternative daycentre Coffee Shop. Behind Argos in Cross Street, St Albans. Monday to Saturday 10am to 2pm.
Cutting cinema costs via the Cinema Exhibitors' Association national card scheme can reduce the expense of a visit to see the latest films. Card holders will be able to get a free ticket for the person who accompanies them, every time they go to the cinema. To qualify for a card someone will need to meet one or more of the following criteria:
• Be in receipt of Disability Living Allowance
• Be in receipt of Attendance Allowance
• Be a registered blind person
The CEA card is valid for one year from the date of issue and costs £5·50 to process. It can be used in the cinema of Odeon and other major chains as well as in some local independent cinemas. For further information ask at your local cinema. If you have any difficulty, please contact at this address: CEACARD, Po Box 199, Deeside, CH5 9BW Tel: 0845 123 1292 or visit Web Site where participating cinemas are listed and you may print an application form.
The Medical Exemption Certificate, if appropriate, entitles the bearer to free prescriptions for certain conditions e.g. diabetes and thyroid problems. Ask your GP receptionist, NHS hospital or local pharmacy for a FP92A application form. Complete and sign parts 1 and 2 and then ask your GP or hospital doctor to complete and sign part 3. Send it to your local Health authority (your GP, NHS hospital doctor or local pharmacy can give you the address). To confirm your free prescription status Tel: 0845 4647 for advice.
Not entitled to free prescriptions? Pre-pay. You may find it cheaper to buy a pre-payment certificate (PPC) if you think you will have to get more than 5 items in 4 months or 14 items in 12 months. Buying a PPC; telephone 0845 850 0030 to find out the cost of a PPC and to pay by credit or debit card. Alternatively consider the NHS Low Income Scheme for help with prescription charges. You will need a HC1 form available from Post Offices, Social Security Offices or by Freephone: 0800 882200. Processing a claim usually takes 4 to 6 weeks.
Hertfordshire Libraries offer free loan of music compact discs and no charge for overdue books plus other special concessions for those with a disability e.g. claimants of Disability Living Allowance. Pick up an information leaflet at your local branch.
Starting up when disabled - Do you know someone who is disabled, would like to run a business and needs support? Ready to Start is an employment initiative run by Leonard Cheshire Disability in partnership with Barclays which backs disabled people to begin their own business. Ready to Start supports more than 1,000 disabled entrepeneurs across the UK to unlock their hidden potential and start a business. Ready to Start provides disabled entrepreneurs with a business buddy, distance mentor, free computer equipment, software, training courses tailored to their needs, start-up advice and information about relevant trade bodies and business associations to help them network locally. If you know someone who is disabled, with designs on running a business and would like to know how to make a start Tel: 08456 717173.
Dacorum Horizons is an exciting new community project funded as part of the national Learning Revolution to encourage people into informal adult learning. Any member of the public who is over 19 may participate. Informal adult learning is learning for its own intrinsic value and we have a wide range of activities. Dacorum Horizons has something for everyone and best of all, IT'S FREE. All courses will take place at Dacorum Horizons, 160 Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead, Herts. Tel: 01442 268600 open Tuesday - Saturday 10am to 4pm.
ICE - A friend told me about a scheme whereby you put your next of kin's name and number in your mobile phone in case you have an emergency. It's called ICE, and it's a brilliant yet simple idea launched by an East Anglian ambulance paramedic, Bob Brotchie, in 2005. You enter the acronym ICE - short for "in case of emergency" - into your mobile phone's contact book alongside the number of someone who should be contacted in an emergency. In the event of need the emergency services will know immediately whom to call, saving lots of wasted time.
Helpful Medication Hints - Taking medication for the first time can be a little daunting but with some helpful aids & tips your fears can be alleviated. I use a PILLMATE pillbox. This is a pillbox which has sections divided up into days of the week i.e. Monday to Sunday. Each day has four section including Morning, Noon, Evening & Night. You place whichever tablets you need to take at a particular time into the section i.e. I take one tablet at night. You can then dispense your week's worth of medication into the box. Using this pillbox means that it helps you to organise your medication & when you need to get a repeat prescription.
I also use a PILLMATE pill cutter. This is a small plastic device with a blade which enables you to cut tablets in half. This is particularly useful if your medication dosage is reduced. Both the Pillmate pillbox & pillcutter can be bought at chemists including Boots. The pill cutter is even available in different colours!
It helps to get into a routine of when you take your medication. Try to take it at the same time each day so it helps you to remember to take it. If you take medication in the evening, perhaps switching off the television, taking a bath or reading can help to relax.
When Taking a Holiday Abroad:
1) Make sure you have enough medication for the duration of your holiday. If necessary, contact your G.P to ask for extra meds.
2) Make sure you pack some meds in your hand luggage as well as or instead of your suitcase. This is because if any of your luggage gets lost, you will still have some medication with you.
3) If possible, obtaining a photocopy of your repeat prescription is a good idea. If in any emergency a doctor will be able to see what current medication you are taking and customs officers may require to see it to validate any medications you are carrying.
I hope these tips help you & make your life a little easier.
Source: Charlotte.
What you need to know about antidepressant medication - Antidepressants are not addictive and are not tranguillisers or sleeping tablets. You will be able to stop taking them when your doctor feels you are ready to, and they will help you to feel better more quickly than any other type of treatment. It usually takes a couple of weeks or so before the antidepressants have their full effects (perhaps a little longer for an elderly person). Always make sure that you take the full course of tablets, even when you start to feel better. It is important to take the tablets every day, as they do not work if you only take them when you feel you need to! Do not take any more tablets than have been prescribed for you and talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have. You may experience some side effects, but these do not usually last long. Check with your doctor about what to expect, so that they will not worry you if they occur. Don't stop taking the tablets once you start to feel better. It is important to continue taking them (usually for several months) after you feel better to ensure that you get well. Discuss with your doctor how long you should stay on the tablets.
Self-Management Tip - Some psychiatric patients find it difficult to remember to take their medication dilligently. I use an alarm clock set to ring at the appropriate hour. This reminds me to take my tablets at the prescribed time and helps me to avoid a relapse. During these uncertain days of NHS cutbacks I believe it is crucial that I self-manage my illness as essential support may not be available during a future crisis. I welcome the NHS cutbacks. I think the NHS cutbacks are second to none. The NHS cutbacks give me an incentive... an incentive not to be ill. :(
Always read the Patient Information leaflet that comes with your medications and never ever throw them away. If you didn't get a PI leaflet, you may request one. If you still don't get one then complain vociferously but politely. Some doctors tend to take a dim view of patients who know too much about medications, so tread lightly when and where appropriate. Diagnosing yourself from a web site is like defending yourself in court, you suddenly have a fool for a doctor. Don't be a cyberchondriac, thinking you have every 'dis-ease' you see a web site about, or that you'll get every side effect from every medication. Anyone with a history of mental illness who needs advice on appropriate psychiatric medication needs to be discussing that with a doctor and not getting your information from some stupid web site. Get off your computer and start making appointments!
A support worker in a daycentre sometime ago asked me: "Bob, do you believe that your medication makes you well?" I replied: "No I don't. No doctor has ever required of me to believe that my medication makes me well, they merely insist that I take it. It is not necessary for me to believe." My illness feels like a psychological issue but it is apparently a dysfunction of my brain.
Whilst on a psychiatric ward I declined the medication that I was required to take. The ward doctor was summoned immediately: "You see, when I prescribe medication for a patient it goes in him. It can go in you the easy way or it can go in you the hard way but it will go in you." I withdrew to consider his words when I heard a voice: "Nurse, is that syringe ready?" Since that day, some twenty five years ago, I have been taking my medication the easy way.
Have you got the bus pass? Do you know about the bus pass? From April 2008 the national bus pass gives free off-peak bus travel anywhere in England for older and disabled people. This scheme widens the horizons of many people. Check it out at your District Council Offices. This free travel permit is better than American Express, try using a credit card on a bus and see how far it gets you! ;~)
Hospital Visits - If you are receiving Income Support and are a close relative of the patient, it is possible for you to claim your expenses when visiting your relative. You will either be paid a mileage rate if you use your own car, or if you save your bus tickets, the cost will be refunded. Taxi fares can only be refunded in extreme circumstances, e.g. you have had to visit in the middle of the night, or you cannot use public transport due to your own ill-health. Please speak to the nurse in charge of the ward to claim your expenses.
Lithium is one of the best tested, longest used treatments since the 1960's and most effective interventions for bipolar. Psychiatrists are now moving away from the newer medications back to the old treatment Lithium because of side effects.
Points to remember: Always take prescribed dose. Appropriate doses can vary widely from person to person even people of similar weights. Make sure you get regular blood tests .Your GP may request further tests to be done e.g. thyroid and kidney function. Lithium levels can rise as you lose fluid so be wary in hot weather and during vigorous exercise and limit your consumption of diuretics, including coffee and alcohol. If you experience vomiting, dizziness, lack of coordination, blurred vision, or other signs contact your doctor immediately.
Lithium wasn't cooked up in a multi million dollar lab. It is a naturally occurring salt that happens to calm the nerves, and when used under a doctor's supervision has manageable side effects for most people. It is often effective in managing both poles of bi-polar - mania and depression.
One of the biggest challenges with Lithium is that blood levels must be maintained in a very narrow range.
Maudsley Mental Health Medication Helpline - If you want immediate advice on any mental health medication call the Mental Health Medication Helpline at the Maudsley Hospital. The helpline provides independent advice and information about mental health drugs. The helpline is staffed by experienced mental health pharmacists and provides independent advice and information about drugs to patients and carers. Tel: 020 7919 2999 or 0203 228 6000. Opening hours: 11 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays.
Keep taking the tablets. "To stop taking psychiatric medication without medical supervision may have serious consequences for your health." Source: Psychiatric Nurse. "If you should forget to take your medication at the appropriate time then wait until next scheduled dose to continue your treatment. This will maintain the continuation of your medication without the risk of overdose." Source: Occupational Therapist. "Lithium is a wonder drug that has revolutionised psychiatric medicine but in order for it to work the patient has to take it." Source: Hospital Library Book. Beware of possibly well meant but ignorant and potentially harmful comments such as: "Lithium is a placebo, you don't have to take it." Source: Care Assistant.
Response Curve
Increasing the dose of an antidepressant without medical supervision may result in a decrease of benefit if the medication response curve is not considered. With reference to the graph above it can be seen that an increase in the dose may be detrimental to the mood and may even make one feel worse than before treatment. A substantial increase in dose may be required to elevate the mood more but unfortunately this could result in unacceptable side effects. The finer details of the response curve may vary between patients. All adjustments to the dose should be authorized by the prescribing doctor. "Do not exceed the stated dose." Source: Pharmacist. "Not many GPs know about the response curve." Source: Mind.
Always remember that there are lies, damn lies and statistics. If you torture data sufficiently, it will confess to almost anything.
Anosognosia is a condition in which a person who suffers disability seems unaware of or denies the existence of his or her disability. Although largely used to describe unawareness of impairment after brain injury or stroke, the term 'anosognosia' is occasionally used to describe the lack of insight shown by some people who suffer from psychosis and who therefore do not have the insight to recognize that they suffer from a mental illness.
For individuals with severe mental illnesses, lack of awareness of illness is significantly associated with both medication non-compliance and re-hospitalisation. Fifteen percent of individuals with severe mental illnesses who refuse to take medication voluntarily under any circumstances may require some form of coercion to remain compliant because of anosognosia.
One study of voluntary and involuntary inpatients confirmed that committed patients require coercive treatment because they fail to recognize their need for care. Predictably, the patients committed to the hospital had significantly lower measures of insight than the voluntary patients.
It has been suggested that mental patients with anosognosia and who are not compliant with their medication régime should be paid (£15 per week typical) to take their medication and/or attend depot clinic. This would have the dual effect of enhancing the treatment of the patient and saving society the cost of repeat hospitalisation of the patient. This idea has been criticised for being coercive.
What do you think? How should that affect their benefits?
Cooking for one. Sadly, many psychiatric patients eventually find themselves living alone. Here is a quick and useful recipe ideal for bedsit preparation.
Scrambled Egg
2 large eggs
6 tablespoons milk
½ oz butter or margarine
1 tomato
2 slices buttered toast
Put a stop to the rumours about microwave scrambled egg not being as nice as when it's made on the hob. This recipe is just as delicious and it's much quicker too. Serves 1. Beat together 2 large eggs and 6 tablespoons of milk in a microwaveable bowl. Add butter and season to taste. Put in the microwave and cook on HIGH for 60 seconds. Stir and return to the microwave and cook on HIGH for a further 60 seconds. If you prefer your eggs more firm, cook on HIGH for a further 10 secs. Serve on buttered toast with sliced tomato on the side. Source: Lizzie
Hearing Voices - When I was under great emotional stress and had a major mental breakdown a cynical voice impinged itself onto my mind yet I was alone. Was it an hallucination? It matters not to me as I shouted at it in my mind in a most forceful manner. This was most effective in banishing the rogue spirit.
Whilst on a psychiatric ward I declined the medication that I was required to take. The ward doctor was summoned immediately: "You see, when I prescribe medication for a patient it goes in him. It can go in you the easy way or it can go in you the hard way but it will go in you." I withdrew to consider his words when I heard a voice: "Nurse, is that syringe ready?" Since that day, some twenty years ago, I have been taking my medication the easy way.
Hearing Voices
Hearing Voices Network
Travel Insurance
What do people with pre existing medical conditions do about travel insurance? The last time I took out insurance I had to pay ten times what a person with no pre-existing medical conditions would have had to pay?
Special Medical Conditions - The main issue for anyone with mental health problems, and their partner or family, is to find a travel insurer who accepts pre-existing medical conditions. Pre-existing medical conditions are one of the most important exclusions in all travel policies, unless they have been disclosed when you take out the policy and have been approved by your insurer. Some companies will not cover pre-existing illnesses, and others increase premiums or impose a higher excess.
Current Issues for Consideration - Getting insurance for the USA is one of the most difficult countries to have reasonably priced insurance for. If it is possible to choose another holiday destination at the outset then it may be advisable. If you want a holiday and you aren't fixed on a particular country then it maybe worth asking the insurer what the different rates for different countries will be. For example Australia and most of Europe have a health exchange agreement with the UK, so can be considerably less in insurance than the USA and Spain, where health costs are considerably higher. The more time that has passed from your diagnosis and treatment, the greater your chances are of getting reasonable travel insurance. That is, the longer you have been living with a mental health problem, especially if it is greater than 5 years, the easier it is to get travel insurance. If you have recent episodes or had to cancel a previous trip due to mental health difficulties, it will be very difficult and very expensive to get travel insurance. If you wanted to go to the USA, it will be virtually impossible. In most cases, it is likely the insurer will have to speak to your consultant. Getting travel insurance for a mental health patient is an individual process in that you will be asked about your current health status, if you have had recent hospitalisations and when it was, if you were on medication and when that was and if you are having ongoing treatment now (this makes it more expensive - this doesn't however include ongoing therapy or psychiatrist visits, just the treatments).
Shop around for travel insurance - Don't buy travel insurance with your holiday! It is likely to be very expensive and probably not cover you for pre-existing medical conditions. Shop around for travel insurance. There can be a marked difference in charges between companies. Take a look at WHICH HOLIDAY magazine (published by The Consumers' Association) available in your local library or by subscription online. WHICH surveys the travel insurance market in March each year, and regularly updates their information through the year. Save time by asking your local insurance broker to find you the best value holiday cover. Always tell them about recent or planned treatment, and any other pre-existing medical conditions, otherwise these won't be covered if you make a claim.
Be prepared for questions - You may be asked for the dates of your last or next hospital visit, what it was for, and about any proposed or ongoing treatment. You may be required to provide a letter from your GP or your consultant confirming your fitness to travel. This is particularly relevant for people with a newly-diagnosed mental health problem, or those who have had recent treatment.
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) - Travelling in Europe? Make sure you take the new EHIC or European Health Insurance Card. This card has replaced the old E111 as of January 2006. It entitles you to free or reduced medical care in most of Europe (European Economic Area - EEA) and Switzerland. Insurers may waive excesses for medical treatment if you use your EHIC to get treatment. Keep the card in a safe place, it is an important and valuable document. The EHIC card is available free to all residents of the UK. You can apply for it either online www.ehic.org.uk by telephone 0845 606 2030 or simply pick up an application form from the Post Office. You need to apply three weeks before travel to Europe. An EHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance, and should not be considered as a cheap alternative. It provides cover in an emergency, and is only valid in EEA countries. For complete coverage you should always take out your own travel insurance policy as well and tell the insurer you are taking an EHIC with you.
Travel Insurance Companies - Below is a selection of companies that may be able to provide cover. I am unable to recommend any specific company.
Adrian Flux Tel: 0800 089 0203, Very helpful. Freephone or call back service offered.
All Clear Travel Tel: 08000 82 52 52, AllClearTravel is designed for travellers with pre existing medical conditions.
Club Direct Tel: 0800 083 2466, Club Direct provides travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions, subject to online or telephone screening.
Direct Travel Insurance Tel: 0845 605 2700, They speak to you personally about your pre-existing medical condition before giving a quote.
Essential Health & MIA Tel: 0845 408 5444, European travel insurance to cover pre-existing medical conditions.
Essential Travel Tel: 0845 803 5434. Essential Travel's pre existing medical conditions insurance offers full protection for a wide range of conditions meaning you can enjoy your holiday with the knowledge you are fully insured. Access their Pre Existing Medical Conditions Insurance." *Now covering Cancer Travel Insurance.*
Flexicover Tel: 0845 223 4500, They will not cover you if your doctor/consultant has advised you not to travel. Cover may still be offered if you have consultant support subject to you declaring your medical condition/s through their screening service Healthscreen247.
Free Spirit Tel: 0845 230 5000, Travel Insurance for patients with pre-existing conditions.
Freedom Travel Insurance Tel: 01223 454 290, They offer insurance for people with pre-existing medical conditions. They are very helpful and willing to talk through the options. They also are prepared to explain what the underwriters are asking and why.
J & M Insurance Tel: 020 7446 7626, Travelbility insurance cover designed for pre-existing medical conditions and disabled people for travel worldwide. They also cover your mobility and disability equipment while travelling.
Mediquote Tel: 01243 534 435, They have a professional assesment team who will speak to you before giving a quote.
Primary Insurance Tel: 0844 412 3112, They will quote for pre-existing medical conditions.
Further Information - For more information on specialist or local travel insurance companies see the website of the British Insurance Brokers' Association or the British Foreign Office.
I have neither researched company policies nor can I recommend any particular travel agent/insurance company. These are intended as a guide only and on recommendation from other mental health patients who have used their services. The travel insurance information above was researched & written by B Maru.
NHS Credit Crunch Stressline Tel: 0300 123 2000 and speak to someone who cares. It is often said that 1 in 4 people will be affected by mental illness. What is often not realised is that 1 in 3 of the 1 in 4 are likely to be in debt. Job insecurity, redundancy, debt and money problems can all cause feelings of distress. When times are tough, it's quite natural to feel worried or down. It's when these feelings go on for weeks that they can start to affect your health and wellbeing.
You may be worried about finding a job, or anxious about losing your business. You may be stressed about overdue bills. You may even be worried about losing your home. The credit crunch hits people in lots of different ways.
The NHS Credit Crunch Stressline is prepared to help. Here is what they say:
"We'll help you to understand the real nature of your problem. We'll ask you some questions and find out just how bad you're feeling. We'll give you some clarity and help you to get on top of things.
"Our health advisers will spend time talking things over with you. Conversations could last a few minutes or they could last a quarter of an hour.
"Whatever your problem, we'll offer you practical advice or point you to just the right service.
Expert advice will:
• help you to look at your problems;
• provide self-help materials;
• give supportive feedback; and
• guide you to online resources.
Other help available:
• financial and debt management services
• employment and career services
• mental health services.
"One of the worst things about a crisis is that things no longer feel normal. We'll help you to get your life back on track - we'll either do this ourselves or point you to other people who can do it instead.
Worry is generally caused by a setback that is temporary and specific. We'll give you the tools and resources you need to overcome your difficulties. We'll show you how to cope.
Talk to us on 0300 123 2000." Calls should cost the same as those to standard landlines and may be part of your call package. Costs from mobiles may vary.
Need help managing your money? Mind, the mental health charity, realises that managing personal finances and good mental health go hand in hand. Struggling to keep control of income and expenditure can affect mental health and sometimes having a mental health problem can seriously affect your finances. To give you access to information and support about your money Mind has added a money section to its web pages. You can find these at www.mind.org.uk/money It will be useful for anyone concerned about their money but is especially helpful for people with experience of mental distress.
Mentally ill exploited by careless lenders - People that are suffering from a mental illness are three times more likely to be in debt and four times more likely if diagnosed with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
However, lenders often do not understand how mental health can influence the way that customers deal with their finances and few have effective plans to deal with the specific demands such customers have.
Emma Mamo, of Mind, the mental health charity, says: "People with bipolar disorder may go on massive spending sprees during a manic phase and take on credit and loans that they cannot afford. Once their mania is over, they may be unable to deal with the consequences, such as being harassed to pay debts that they may not even remember accumulating."
Source: Times On Line
Debt and mental health - Often, following a diagnosis of bipolar and acceptance of having the condition, there is a financial burden to deal with in addition to the maze of finding the right medical help. Resources which may be useful include:
The Consumer Credit Counselling Service who provide free, impartial and realistic support regarding debt. Tel: 0800 138 111 or visit www.cccs.co.uk
The National Debtline who provide free confidential and independent advice on debt. Tel: 0808 808 4000 or visit www.nationaldebtline.co.uk
Patient.co.uk - Useful source of information.
Worried how your loved one will cope after you've gone? - Having a severe mental illness can sometimes make it difficult to manage finances on your own or look after your assets. Carers often take in these responsibilities for their loved ones, but what happens when you are no longer around? Rethink Trust Coporation is an option. They can set up a trust for you that will not affect your beneficiary's entitlement to state benefits. Give them a call today on 0845 456 0455. Email: info@rethink.org www.rethink.org
How do you live with a husband with manic depression? - The love of a good woman: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1279201/How-live-husband-manic-depression.html
POhWER - The advocacy agency. This organisation is also known as People of Hertfordshire Want Equal Rights. "Our Mission is to give power to your voice." POhWER now incorporates Equal Voice (Stevenage and North Herts) and Advocacy Now (St Albans). POhWER, 551 Lonsdale Road, Stevenage, Herts SG1 5DZ Tel: 01438 740162.
Funding - Are you a local group run by people with experience of mental health problems? Are you trying to bring about better mental health services or to improve people's attitudes to mental health issues? Do you need money for your running costs like rent, bills and travel? If so then read on! Comic Relief is offering small grants (of up to £5,000) to support user-led mental health groups who can help people with mental health problems to get their voices heard and campaign for change. contact: UK Grants Team, Comic Relief, 5th Floor, 89 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TP Tel: 020 7820 5555.
Pension - Am I entitled to the basic state pension even though I have not always worked? Your contribution record will be credited as having been paid, making you eligible for the basic state pension, if you received any of the following when you were not earning:
• Invalid Care Allowance.
• Disability Working Allowance
• Jobseeker's Allowance.
• Incapacity Benefit
• Severe Disablement Allowance
Plan for the future with the help of a DWP pension forecast. This could be most useful if you expect to be out of employment and on benefits for a prolonged period of time. Tel: 0845 3000 168.
For free advice on pensions including help with problems contact: The Office of the Pensions Advisory Service (OPAS), 11 Belgrave Road, London SW1V 1RB Tel: 0845 601 2923.
Computers for the Disabled is a registered charity, run solely by volunteers. They aim to help disabled people communicate on the internet and participate in electronic activities by recycling computers and accessories e.g. digital cameras. By providing disabled people with extremely low cost computers, the charity is giving them an alternative means of keeping in touch. For more information Tel: 01268 284834 or visit www.cftd.co.uk
What is meant by disability? A disability is a restriction or lack of ability to perform an activity in the manner or within a range considered normal for a human being. A handicap is the disadvantage resulting from an individual form of disability within a specific environment. A person is disabled if:
• They have a mental or physical impairment.
• This has an adverse effect in their ability to carry out normal day to day activities.
• The adverse effect is substantial.
• The adverse effect is long-term (meaning it has lasted for 12 months or is likely to last for more than 12 months or for the rest of their life).
Disability Discrimination Act 1995
Survivors Speak Out was founded in 1986 by a group of mental health service users and workers. The use of the term survivors was chosen to portray a positive image of people in distress and people whose experience differs from, or who dissent from, society's norms. People who use the statutory mental health services are often referred to as patients or users. People who use the voluntary mental health services are often referred to as clients or particularly as members if they have joined the organisation and have voting rights. Some users of mental health services often feel stigmatised and stereotyped by society. The language that people choose can compound this prejudice. Some users find the term 'mental illnes' offensive and as a result may prefer the phrases 'mental distress', 'emotional distress', 'mental health problems' or 'mental health difficulties'. Please be aware of the words you use. Although I am not too fussed about any labels that are applied to me I do believe it is important how we define ourselves.
Disability Politics UK has been set up to enhance the opportunities of disabled people to participate in politics (as a part time member of parliament) via a job share scheme. At present this is illegal but Deborah King has created an e-petition to hopefully influence the decision makers. I urge you to carefully consider to sign her petition "Allow MPs to serve on a job share basis" at:
http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/17076 I have in fact been toying with the idea of being a member of parliament myself. But I don't think I'll bother... the expenses are rubbish ! ;) Seriously though, the topic of disabled people having a proactive role in politics is also supported by the United Nations at their web site:
http://www.un.org/disabilities/default.asp?navid=14&pid=150 It doesn't matter who you vote for... the Government always wins ! ;) You have to laugh... you'd cry if you didn't. Love life, Benefits Bob the Welfare Weasel.
What is a SCAM? - Scheming Crafty Aggressive Malicious. A scam is a scheme to con someone out of their cash. Many scams take the form of bogus and fraudulent offers sent by post, telephone or e-mail. Every year, three million people fall victim to scams, losing an average of £850 each. Fake lottery and prize draw wins, bogus psychic preditions, get-rich-quick investment cons and 'miracle' health cures are just some of the tricks scammers try. Though anyone can fall for a scam, the elderly and vulnerable are more likely to be targeted. Anyone who thinks they have been the victim of a scam, or suspects a scam is being attempted, can contact Consumer Direct on Tel: 08454 04 05 06 for clear, practical advice. For free copies of more information Freephone: 0800 389 3158.
Low cost recycled furniture and "white goods" are offered at: Emmaus St Albans, Hill End Lane, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL4 0FE Tel: 01727 817297. Dacorum Paradise Furniture Project, Paradise Industrial Estate, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4TQ Tel: 01442 241716 / 263197. Special concessions for those on certain benefits.
In this paragraph I am going to jump right in, make a big splash and cool off from the coming heat, so plug your nose and hold on tight. First I am going to show you some real, tangible ways that claiming welfare benefits can make your life a little easier - and more fun - everyday. Then I'm going to top it all off with a shiny cherry of the hottest tip this week. Ssssssss (that's the sound of the tip sizzling). Okay, so there are some serious changes coming to the benefits system but not all of them have arrived yet. DLA yes DLA. If you have not already claimed it then do it NOW! The going rate for DLA with Bipolar is middle rate at £50 per week tax free and does not affect any other benefits. Some people seem to think that it is a good idea to wait for the changes and then claim PIP - Personal Independence Payment. No it's NOT! Most people on DLA will probably be simply transferred to PIP but an intial claim for PIP will be much harder than DLA. Also, make life easier for yourself and Freephone: 0800 88 22 00 and they will post a DLA claim pack to you for free. You can also use that 'phone number to ask a multitude of benefits questions and all for a free call. I have just completed my Limited Work Capability Questionnaire and let me tell you I am now exhausted. It is generally reckoned to be the hardest and most convoluted benefits claim form there has ever been. Now here is the red hot chilli tip: Council Tax - If you are unable / advised not to work, not receiving full Council Tax benefit and receiving a benefit such as Incapacity Benefit, or DLA - Disability Living Allowance at the middle or higher care rate, then hundreds or thousands of pounds in Council Tax can be saved per annum and previous years refunded. You do not have to reapply in future years. People who are "severely mentally impaired" are entitled to various concessions on their Council Tax charges. All councils operate this scheme through the 1992 Local Government Act. This defines severe mental impairment as having "severe impairment of intelligence and social functioning [however caused] which appears to be permanent". If you meet the criteria (Bipolar will do nicely) telephone your Council Tax office to request an application form for Council Tax Discounts / Exemptions with regard to people that have a severe mental impairment. Now do you get it? Get DLA at hopefully middle rate or above, get on the above scheme, no need to reapply, save literally thousands of pounds and even if you are not transferred to PIP you are still a winner!
Let the experts do the work - Are you claiming all the benefits you are entitled to? Don't forget that Carers in Hertfordshire can refer you to the Hertfordshire County Council's Money Advice Unit for a full benefits check for you and/or the person you look after. The world of benefits is so complex, let the experts from the Money Advice Unit guide you through the maze and help with completing the long claim forms. If you would like to have a benefits check, Tel: 01992 586969.
Warm Front is a government sponsored heating initiative for those on benefits. When you join you can get access to free insulation, free energy-efficient bulbs and help if your boiler/heating fails to function. For more information Freephone: 0800 316 2808.
Landmark for online registration. Hundreds of people have used an innovative online form that enables adults to notify Hertfordshire County Council of their disability quickly and easily. Adults who register their disability online are entitled to a bus pass, a disabled rail card, reduction in the cost of a fishing licence and reduced admission charges for many leisure activities including cinemas, concerts and leisure centres. Adults who want to register their disability online can do so by visiting: www.hertsdirect.org/disabledregistration
If you have a low income, you can claim several benefits that can give you a basic amount to live on. To get them, you will need to pass a "means test", so you will have to give details of all your income and savings. If you live with a partner, civil partner, or your husband or wife, their income and savings are also taken into account when deciding if you can get these benefits. For more information contact your local Citizens' Advice Bureau listed in the telephone directory or contact the Benefits Helpline on Freephone 0800 88 22 00. Disabled Persons Railcard
There's great value to be had travelling around Britain with a Disabled Persons Railcard. You'll see some amazing places and save money too. www.disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk
Can I get Carer's Allowance? You may be able to get Carer's Allowance if you:
• are aged 16 or over
• meet conditions about which country you live in
• earn no more than the 'earnings limit' (£95 per week as at 2009)
• are not in full-time education (21 hours or more of supervised study each week) and for at least 35 hours a week, care for someone who is getting:
- Disability Living Allowance at the middle or highest rate for care, or
- Attendance Allowance, or
- Constant Attendance Allowance at or above the normal maximum rate with an Industrial Injuries Disablement or the basic (full-day) rate with a War Disablement Pension.
For Carer's Allowance, a 'week' is seven days, Sunday to Saturday.
So you can still get Carer's Allowance even if you only provide care at weekends. For example, if you care at least 35 hours every weekend for a disabled child who is away during the week, you can still get Carer's Allowance.
You may hve to pay tax on your Carer's Allowance.
The amount of savings you have does not matter for Carer's Allowance.
Visit www.direct.gov.uk and enter 'carer' into the search facility to find more information.
Need a break? Are you caring for someone at home who is elderly or has a disability? Do you worry about leaving the person alone and therefore rarely go out? Do you never have time to relax, time to shop without rushing, time to pursue your own interests or to visit friends? Crossroads is an organisation that can provide relief to the carer. If you would like to know more about the scheme contact: North and North West Herts Crossroads on Tel: 01462 455578.
Should I declare my disability? - This question causes concern for many disabled people who are applying for jobs. Under the Disability Discrimination Act, it is unlawful for employers to discriminate against disabled people in their recruitment and selection procedures. While it is not unlawful to ask questions about a person's health and disability on an application form or to issue a separate health questionnaire, it is unlawful to use the responses to discriminate against anyone. If you feel that you have been discriminated against when applying for a job, please tell a member of the Jobcentre staff. You may have a right to take a case to an employment tribunal. You must make your complaint within three months of the date of the incident that you are complaining about. When employers use application forms which are less than perfect, you may feel reluctant to tell them about your disability. In the end it's up to you, but you should remember the following points:
• If you are asked (in an interview or on an application form) whether you have a health condition or disability, answer in a straightforward way. Make the distinction between a health condition and a disability. If necessary, explain how your disability would affect you in a work environment - or say that it has no practical effect. Talk about your abilities and why you think you are the right person for the job.
• You must tell an employer about a disability if it might present a health and safety risk to yourself or other work colleagues.
• If you sign a declaration saying that you do not have a disability when in fact you do, this may affect your job at a later date.
Remember this web site is only a general guide and not a full and authoritative statement of the law. I have made every effort to make sure that the information on this web site is correct. However, changes in the law make the web site become gradually less accurate. For up-to-date information please contact your local Jobcentre.
Will you get PIP? As we all know Personal Independence Payment replaces Disability Living Allowance in 2013. Those already on DLA will be transferred. If you want a rough idea of your chances that you will get PIP then a good place to start is: Online PIP assesment. With regard to the changes proposed to benefits plans have been made by the Government for at least 13 years that I know about. It doesn't matter who is in power these changes will come regardless. My advice is look after yourself first and make the effort to enhance your situation. Then, when you've done your best for yourself share your knowledge with your fellow mental health services users. It is most unlikely that we will change the Government's plans but we can all work together to optimise our chances of making an effective claim for benefits. Typical advice is to get a certificate of posting (free at the Post Office counter) when you send your claim form in. If the DWP lose your claim form you can prove you sent it in and ask that your money is back dated to when you did send it in. This simple tactic could save you £££s in back payment from the DWP - Department for Work & Pensions. Source: Benny Fitz.
The Power to Work Project is a 26 week programme for those in receipt of Incapacity Benefit or other associated benefits such as Income Support or Credits of National Insurance contributions for reasons of incapacity e.g. mental health conditions. A variety of skills training and support is offered at: Careers Development Group, 1st floor, 62 The Parade, Watford, Herts WD17 1AZ Tel: 01923 222128.
More Helplines - I have been told, by someone I trust, that the magic phrase to use if you really need to see a doctor is; "It is imperative that I am seen by a doctor."
Please find below information to access out of hours care. If all else fails then present yourself to nearest Accident & Emergency.
Herts Urgent Care - Patient Line. Freephone: 03000 33 33 33.
Mental Health Helpline provided by Hertfordshire Partnership Foundation Trust (HPFT) is available to all their service users and carers who need it. Offering advice and telephone support from mental health professionals, outside normal working hours, it is available via Tel: 01438 843322. Hours of opening: 5:00pm - 9:00am Mondays to Fridays, 24 hours round the clock at weekends and on Bank Holidays. During normal weekday working hours service users needing advice should call their local community mental health team.
Background: - For a long time, service users and carers have said that they needed a number to call when mental health services are closed. The good news is that HPFT has responded and set up a new out-of-hours help line. A trained mental health professional will answer your call. If it cannot be taken immediately, you will be able to leave a message on an answerphone. The mental health professional should call you back within an hour. If your first language is not English, staff will be able to arrange for an interpreter to translate for you.
Information: - The helpline is essentially a telephone advice and support service. For example, you may want to know more about medication or local services or you may need some support if you are not feeling well or if you are worried about someone you care for or need more help as a carer. However, if you are having a crisis or an emergency when you telephone, the helpline staff will make sure you receive the help you need.
NHS Helpline - If you are feeling distressed or need urgent help, contact the Mental Health Information Line: Freephone 0800 616171. Provided by Coventry Healthcare NHS Trust.
New NHS Service - From Monday 1 June 2009 two new NHS services are open to the people of Hertfordshire. West Herts Medical Centre Tel: 03000 33 22 33 in Hemel Hempstead and Spring House Medical Centre Tel: 01707 294 354 in Welwyn Garden City will enable patients to see a GP or nurse from 8am to 8pm, every day of the year.
These new facilities are additional GP surgeries and are open to everyone. The new centres offer:
• Pre-booked appointments to people registered with the centre
• Pre-booked appointments to people not registered with the centre
• A walk-in service for anyone (no appointment needed)
West Herts Medical Centre is located in the Jubilee Wing of Hemel Hempstead Hospital and is run by Herts Urgent Care on behalf of NHS West Hertfordshire.
Spring House Medical Centre can be found on Ascots Lane, close to the QEII Hospital and is run by Ephedra Healthcare, a consortium of local GPs, on behalf of NHS East and North Hertfordshire.
For more information about the new centres click on the respective weblinks above.
NHS Direct is a professional 24 hour advice and health information service. Most useful for a wide range of concerns and access to local support groups. Calls are charged at local rate. Tel: 0845 4647.
Exploding Water in the Microwave
Did you know that heating water in the microwave can actually be dangerous? This is a warning to help you avoid a potential disaster. The American Burn Association has identified scald burns from superheated liquids in microwaves as a target for a new public awareness campaign... "Water alone should never be heated in a microwave." Here's why...
This is an all too common example of what can happen. A man decided to have a cup of instant coffee, so he heated a cup of water in the microwave. When the timer went off, he removed the cup from the microwave and noticed that the water had not boiled.
Just then, the water literally "blew up" in his face. His whole face was blistered with first and second degree burns, which left some permanent scarring and damage to his left eye. While at the hospital, the doctor attending him stated that his is a fairly common occurrence. Water (alone) should never be heated in a microwave oven.
Why? This phenomenon is known as superheating. It can occur anytime water is heated - especially if the cup or bowl is new. What happens is that the water heats faster than the vapour bubbles can form. If the cup is new, then it is unlikely to have small surface scratches in it that provide a place for the bubbles to form.
Without bubbles, the water cannot release the heat that has built up, the liquid does not boil and it continues to heat up past its boiling point. If the water is bumped or jarred, it's enough of a shock to cause the bubbles to rapidly form and the result is an exploding liquid that is scalding hot. One solution is to place a wooden stir stick or something non-metallic in the water to help diffuse the energy as it is heating in the microwave
Dr. Gordon Lindberg, MD, PhD, and director of the burn unit at University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, agrees that the phenomenon of superheated liquids is a real problem. According to Dr. Lindberg, the American Burn Association has identified scald burns from superheated liquids in microwaves as a target for a new public awareness campaign.
"These burns are dramatic and traumatic because they often affect the face and hands of the burn victim. Fortunately, these burns rarely need grafting; however, they are extremely painful and in children these burns often lead to hospitalization for wound care and pain control. The best way to avoid these burns is to place a wooden coffee stirrer in the liquid when heating it and also to let all heated liquids cool for a few minutes inside the microwave before removing them."
If you receive one of these burns, and especially if it covers the face or hands, seek a burn care specialist for care. Initial treatment for the burn can be performed in an Emergency Department or at a doctor's office, but a burn specialist should see the burn within 24-48 hours after the injury, especially if the face is involved. If the eyes are involved, an ophthalmologist should be consulted immediately.
Tomatoes - I believe that natural and processed tomatoes (containing lycopene) can be beneficial to my health especially with regard to the possible avoidance of cancer. I often have a glass of tomato juice first thing in the morning. I can't prove it but I do it because I like it.
£££s saving top tip - If you are reading this at home on a personal computer then chances are that you have a printer and will find this tip useful. Rather than just click on the print icon press Ctrl and P together on your keyboard. This will bring up your printer dialogue box. Select "Properties" and then select "Quick Print". When you press "Print" you will use roughly half the amount of ink. You may select "Apply" to ensure that all further prints are economy. I use "Quick Print" for day to day letters (even if they may be photocopied later then "Quick Print" is still adequate), "Normal" for monochrome photographs and "Best" for colour photographs. Using this tip could double the life of your ink cartridges.
A Word About Funding - Please note that Mental Health Survival Guide does not and has never received grants from pharmaceutical companies. I have never been asked to represent any pharmaceutical company or give any speeches for a pharmaceutical company nor does my web site receive advertising pounds from any company.
Useful Numbers & Information from Momotaz Rahim
St Albans District Council: 01727 866100
Refuse Collection St Albans: 01727 819285
Herts County Council: 01438 737555
NHS Direct - Tel: 0845 4647
Police Non Emergency number: 101
National Gas Emergency Service: Freephone 0800 111 999. If you smell gas anywhere.
Traveline: 0871 200 22 33 For advice about public transport locally or anywhere in the UK.
Shelterline: Freephone 0808 800 4444 Legal and Advice Line for Housing problems
Citizens Advice Bureau: Callcentre 0844 411 1444
Nappy Collection Service - St Albans District Council offers a nappy sack collection service. There is a weekly service and a fortnightly service. The weekly service costs £19.50 for six months. Collection day is Tuesday and bags need to be at the boundary of the property by 7am. Fortnightly collections - The council sends out a roll of white sacks which can only be used for nappies and these need to be placed next to the refuse bin on collection day. These are free. Please contact St Albans District Council to request the service on Tel: 01727 866100.
Potholes / Pavement faults - If you see a pot hole or a pavement fault report it to Herts Highways either on line at Herts County Council: or by telephoning 0300 123 4047.
FORWARD - The Bipolar Social Enterprise is launching it's new web site and a book. Be sure to check back soon for more information. Sign up for their free newsletter and receive frequent bulletins. Join by e-mail:
with 'SUBSCRIBE' in the Subject. They will not pass on your details to other organisations.
Hitler wasn't all bad... he was just misunderstood? - Some sections of the press and media have used distorted figures and statistics from the Department of Work and Pensions to portray all disabled benefit claimants as 'scroungers' and criminals. Failing to report that the qualifying rules have changed and that many being found 'fit for work' would have qualified under the old rules and that the majority of those who take their case to appeal have the decision overturned and their benefit rights re established. This kind of distorted and prejudicial reporting has led to a recorded increase in the incidence of 'hate crime' against sick and disabled people by people who resent their receiving benefits.
This has chilling echo's of the 1930's when the Nazi's put out propaganda newsreels showing images of sick and disabled people labelled as 'useless eaters' saying that these 'genetic degenerates' were costing the taxpayer money and using this to justify their extermination as part of the 'final solution'. People labelled 'mad' were amongst the first to be exterminated with those responsible even deeming this as 'humane'.
People with mental health problems have always been a victim of prejudice and stigma, this is now on the increase again with some irresponsible members of society seeming to promote a fascist mentality where the needy are deemed as 'unproductive' and 'surplus to requirements'. Source: MAD PRIDE.
For these reasons I reluctantly have to advise all mental patients (in the spirit of mental health survival) to keep a low profile and especially avoid all devious publicity e.g. video cameras at conferences.
All expressions in this communication are personal opinions of myself the author (not aware of violating © Copyright but will delete if brought to attention) and do not represent a commitment. Contents for private study use only. External hypertext links from this web site are of concern to me upon receiving notification that they connect to inappropriate content. Advice of errors, broken links or any persistent dysfunctional operation of this web site welcome via my Guestbook. Thank you to all who have contributed their tips and information to this online resource.
ENSUP - European Network of (Ex-) Users and Survivors of Psychiatry. The information that ENSU provide is but just a snippet that reflects the concern that some people have regarding psychiatric care in Europe. Whilst here in UK we may complain about our coffee being served cold in a NHS - National Health Service psychiatric hospital ("Outrageous!" I hear you exclaim) just think again, as you read information supplied by ENSUP, about what may be happening in other less well known institutions some of which may be uncomfortably close to home. Call me a wimp but the information available via ENSUP web site is truly distressing for me to read any more so I will not burden you with it here. If you really do want to pursue the information then you may access it via their web site www.enusp.org. It was not a bad thing that I read the ENSU web site on what is happening in other countries with regard to psychiatric care (or rather the lack of it in some locations) but it has left me drained. A while ago I made friends with Mariana from Bulgaria. When I asked her what the care was like in her country it wasn't what she did say but what she didn't say but more than that it was the way she didn't say it so I did not raise the issue again. Similarly I met Anastasia a student psychologist from Moscow. She filled me in with information regarding the rural areas of Russia. If you live in the rural areas you have to pay for your own medication...if you can get it. Consequently most psychiatirc patients in rural Russia self medicate on vodka. I believe that in some remote parts of the world they just dig a deep hole and put you in it, give you food and water and there you stay - allegedly. But then, if they do not have access to modern psychiatric resources what else can they do I ask myself. Until relatively recently we had padded cells in UK. I made friends with Nigel who explained what it was like to be in a padded cell as he had been in one in Hill End Hospital during the 1970s. The tears were standing in his eyes... I'm taking some time out. Love life, Benefits Bob the Welfare Weasel.
GLobal Mental Health - The Movement for Global Mental Health aims to improve services for people with mental disorders worldwide.
Herts R.I.T.E. - Herts R.I.T.E. is delivered by a Consortium of three Hertfordshire-based charities. This partnership working means that R.I.T.E. has many years of substance misuse, mental health and training knowledge to draw from, as well as a variety of skilled trainers to deliver our courses.
MAKING WAVES - challenging ideas about madness
Mental Health Forum - This a user-led forum which addresses all aspects of different types of mental health conditions.
MENTAL HEALTH HELPLINE - For advice and telephone support from a mental health professional out-of-hours call: 01438 843322. This pro-active service is provided by Hertfordshire Partnership Foundation Trust. I've used it myself and found it to be exemplary.
Mental Health Research Network - Mental health research can help all of us.
Mind - The National Organisation. Visit their web site and enter your post code to find your local Mind Association. Access The Big Book of Benefits & Mental Health - "If you have a mental health problem and are trying to cope with the benefits system there is no better guide that you can buy..." Community Care Magazine.
Mind In Mid Herts - St Albans, Stevenage & Hertford
NSUN - National Survivor User Network. Share......Speak up.....Support
NetDoctor.co.uk - The UK's leading independent health website.
Organ Donor Registration NHS - Would you take an organ if you needed one? 96% of us would. Have you joined the Organ Donor Register? Only 29% of us have. If you believe in organ donation, prove it. Register now at www.organdonation.nhs.uk Tel: 0300 123 23 23.
POhWER - The advocacy agency. Welcome to the website of POhWER, advocacy, making your voice heard.
psychminded.co.uk - for all who work in psychology, psychiatry and mental health.
PSYweb - information on mental health disorders including Depression, Anxiety, Biopolar, OCD and more.
Rethink Mental Illness - Help & Hope. Rethink, for everyone affected by schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and other mental illnesses
Remploy - Whatever your employment goals, Remploy will give you all the support you need to achieve them. We work with many of the UK's best employers to help them understand disability. Companies large and small work with us to recruit people into all types of jobs.
Social Spider - Social Spider is a social enterprise that makes projects happen.
SUNLOWS - This website has been created by Service Users' to inform Service Users and Carers' of what is happening in relation to mental health research in North West London, West London, Barnet, Enfield and Haringey, East London, North East London, Hertfordshire, North and South Essex, Berkshire and Oxford.
Swing - Your local bipolar / manic depression support group based in Hemel Hempstead, Dacorum.
time to change - Let's end mental health discrimination together.
together - FOR MENTAL WELLBEING. Together is a national charity working alongside people with mental health issues on their journey to leading fulfilling and independent lives.
ViewPoint - Would you like to help to make mental health services in Hertfordshire
U3A - University of the 3rd Age - U3As are self-help, self-managed lifelong learning co-operatives for older people no longer in full time work, providing opportunities for their members to share learning experiences in a wide range of interest groups and to pursue learning not for qualifications, but for fun.
Wish - A voice for women's mental health.
As I draw to a close, I thought I'd give you some insight into the place where I create my web site - where the MAGIC HAPPENS as I choose to describe it. It all happens at this rock 'n' roll desk top, which I heaved out of a skip last year. If you study the picture you can see that I am Benefits Bob the Welfare Weasel, I play electric guitar, I wear white socks, I am a member of Mind - note the Mind calendar and worst of all, from the mug, you can see I am a Liverpool FC supporter...
This is where the action is.
The past was grim but with the developments of the 21st Century there are bright prospects for many psychiatric patients. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the people, both professionals and volunteers, who encouraged me to take advantage of the treatments offered that have enhanced my generally good health. Stay safe and stay well.
If you genuinely approve of my efforts then please promote this web site:
www.wbotw.bravehost.com
I am conceited because during my time as a mental patient I have dilligently motivated five other services users to get DLA - Disability Living Allowance. One at lower rate increased to middle rate on appeal. One more at a rate that he did not tell me just: "I got it, thanks." and three more at higher rate, so I am well pleased with that and so were they ! :) Not only does that mean they get substantial and sustained regular £££s directly into their bank accounts the DLA also entitles then to concessions e.g. Cinema Card, Free Bus Pass etc. Typical misunderstanding of the of entitlement rules: "I work so I won't get it" or "I have savings so I won't get it". All false assumptions. But please don't ask me to 'help' you get your benefits as I perceive my rôle as creative input rather than implementation. I'm not here to fill the form in for you. If this web page has encouraged you to check out your welfare entitlements and make your best efforts for claiming benefits then my job is done.
Please feel free to leave me a message via my Guestbook.
Love life,
Benefits Bob the Welfare Weasel
END OF FILE
This is where the action is.
The past was grim but with the developments of the 21st Century there are bright prospects for many psychiatric patients. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the people, both professionals and volunteers, who encouraged me to take advantage of the treatments offered that have enhanced my generally good health. Stay safe and stay well.
If you genuinely approve of my efforts then please promote this web site:
www.wbotw.bravehost.com
I am conceited because during my time as a mental patient I have dilligently motivated five other services users to get DLA - Disability Living Allowance. One at lower rate increased to middle rate on appeal. One more at a rate that he did not tell me just: "I got it, thanks." and three more at higher rate, so I am well pleased with that and so were they ! :) Not only does that mean they get substantial and sustained regular £££s directly into their bank accounts the DLA also entitles then to concessions e.g. Cinema Card, Free Bus Pass etc. Typical misunderstanding of the of entitlement rules: "I work so I won't get it" or "I have savings so I won't get it". All false assumptions. But please don't ask me to 'help' you get your benefits as I perceive my rôle as creative input rather than implementation. I'm not here to fill the form in for you. If this web page has encouraged you to check out your welfare entitlements and make your best efforts for claiming benefits then my job is done.Please feel free to leave me a message via my Guestbook.
Love life,
Benefits Bob the Welfare Weasel
END OF FILE
21 Jan 2012
Wish
A voice for women's mental health
Where do I go?
local health services e.g.
late night pharmacies and A & E
Way2Work
Vocational Advice c/o Mind in Mid Herts
ViewPoint
Helping to make mental health services
in Hertfordshire
R.I.T.E.
Recovery Integration Training Education
POhWER
The advocacy agency
Organ Donor Registration NHS
NetDoctor.co.uk
Independent health website.
NSUN
National Survivor User Network
Share......Speak up.....Support
Mind
The National Organisation
Lilac Butterfly
Welcome to my Blog, enjoy your stay ! :)
Herts Mind Network
For better mental health
Herts Direct
Gateway to Hertfordshire
Hertfordshire-Help
practical support, guidance & info
Disability Politics UK
Help increase the number of disabled MPs
Disability Alliance & Benefits
Work for people who are sick or disabled
DirectGov
Public services all in one place
CALM
Campaign Against Living Miserably
Freephone: 0800 58 58 58
CAB - Citizens Advice Bureau
Confidential advice for claiming benefits
National Tel: 08 444 111 444
St Albans Tel: 01727 851809
BMI Calculator
Pounds & Kilo converter
Bipolar support groups
St Albans &
Hemel Hempstead
Benefits Helpline
Freephone: 0800 88 22 00
Benefits & Work
Get the benefits you're entitled to
bravenet.com