I'm sorry, I should have updated. DS was found after a few days by Police and us. We took him back to hospital. Was re-assessed - this time Section 3. Not made any tangible progress (though clearly physically a bit better) and lately very, very passive.
Today, DH went to a ward meeting. Talk still of transfer to our area (DS in hospital 2 hours drive away but we visit every couple of days). Got call at work this afternoon. DH had dropped DS off at hospital door - did not see him up to the ward. He was in a hurry to take another DC somewhere urgently. Human error but the inevitable happened. DS went off. Hospital only alerted us some hours later.
So back on the old treadmill of speaking to the Police, searching his old haunts, feeling utterly sick and very, very anxious. Now compounded with disappointment about DH's very unusual (for him) action. DS has bank card and we think that his benefits may have come through in which case he'd have enough money to go far away until he runs out of money. He has form in taking off. Police have been involved many times.
Especially worried as he may have money. Police reluctant in past to check ATM withdrawals but this may now be their own line of enquiry. I took a few days off work (thank you for your encouragement). I daren't take more off now, though, as colleague still absent from work and actually, work is a place where I can't cry, walk round in circles, become worn down.
DS on 10 mg aripiprazole and working diagnosis is schizophrenia. His newly appointed MH practitioner has told them that whilst he's with them, they need to try to get to the bottom of why he keeps disappearing and of course he himself has to want to stop.
For now, I am worried stiff. DS could be anywhere. LakeIsle - I hope your daughter is safely with you now. What, please, is Lifeline?
Thank you, all. I will update.