Mental Health Respite Unit

[TeaBlanketBooks]

Does anyone have any experience or advice for me about going into a Mental Health Respite Unit?

I have long term mental health problems, and normally manage at home ok. Recently not coping. I’ve been under the Home Treatment Crisis Team for a few weeks, had meds changed, still getting worse. Today this respite unit was suggested, and providing there is a bed, I’ll going tomorrow.

I’m a single parent to a child with additional needs, so things are tough anyway. Fortunately my mum will have him for a few days, after that there is talk of Care. The guilt I feel is huge. But I need to get well. I definitely need help, just not sure this is the right help.

I don’t know what to pack. I just want to sleep.

Oh honey, you're really going through it.

Listen to the experts. You may feel guilty for not going!

Don't forget to pack a charger.

I hope it helps.

Thanks. I’m trying to take their advice. It’s hard, I can’t imagine being away from my child. I’m in danger of not being able to look after him though, if I don’t get a lot better soon. I hear voices telling me to kill myself. So tired.

The list: charger, soft blanket, lip balm is all I can think of to pack. I don’t know if there is a day room or just bedrooms. So many questions. I think it’s mixed. That scares me. Do you think the doors will lock?

Through work I have been in a MH respite unit.
The doors will lock in order to give you space from potentially wandering service users (but staff will obviously have access)
The facility I visited did have a day room and a dining area.
I'd add earplugs and a few magazines or a good book.
I wish you the best of luck.

We have short term support houses in our trust which sound similar. Up to 2 weeks living in a large single sex house designed to be a nurturing and supportive environment with staff around at all times to provide emotional support- nothing like a ward at all. Sometimes it is the change of environment and time to focus on your own recovery which can be very beneficial. People who I work with have really benefited from a rest from every day life.

I hope you get the support you need.

Slippers and a big cardigan
nice shower gel etc
some squash
snacks
a teddy

Oh OP, I’m so sorry you are going through this. It does sound like you need some respite
As for what to pack, just stuff you might need day to day, plus some things to pass the time. Layers of clothes, as the temperature may vary and things that bring you comfort. Just be aware that your belongings will likely be looked through and anything that isn’t allowed to be used unsupervised on the unit may be retained by the staff for safekeeping
Sending hugs, I hope this gives you the rest you desperately need 🌸

You really are neing

You are being the best mum doing this. It will aid your recovery and your baby will get the real you back in the quickest time. Embrace the help and use the opportunity to catch up on stuff like sleep.
Xx

Take a soft blanket throw and your own pillows
Best of luck

It’s great you’re being given the option to access this, there’s so few beds in any kind of mental health services. This is a brilliant opportunity for you to focus on getting well so you can look after your child, it won’t be easy but it’s moving you forward hopefully to a happier more settled future. Good luck x

I’ve been an inpatient on a psych ward lots of times, but over 13 years ago. I don’t know how different this place might be. Apparently there will be staff there and home treatment team will also come to see me. I’m not on a section, but I don’t know if I’ll be able to go out. I’m trying to pack for my son to be away too, can’t think straight.

I know I’m lucky to be given a chance

Well I’ve been here since Tuesday, and I think it is helping. I’m trying to rest and allow myself to be looked after. It’s all men- apart from me, which feels very weird. I mostly stay in my bedroom unless I want to ask the staff for a drink. (You aren’t allowed in the kitchen) There’s a tv in my room, and a little en-suite loo and shower room. Most of the staff are nice, food is awful though.
My door locks, staff carry keys, but I feel safer with it locked. I have trouble sleeping even though I’m so tired, I still feel on edge. I miss my son. I want to get well and stop feeling like cutting myself is the only way to deal with trauma memories.