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This book is a very powerful addition to the current range of mental health texts, there really is nothing like it because this is Karen's experience and as such unique whilst at the same time gut wrenchingly familiar. It highlights the fundamental problem a service user faces when their opinion conflicts with the service providers...It highlights with painful accuracy the effects of compromised communication across services, poor care planning, inconsistent adherence to care plans, the fear associated with being given the wrong diagnosis, or being written off as a troublesome and complaining patient. It also shows the reader the power of decent and skilled practitioners and the massive difference they can make to a clients motivation to remain engaged with services that have challenged them. This is a story of struggle, of crisis and of compassion and as such a worthy experience to learn from. - By Naomi Sharples - Director of Mental Health & Learning Disabilities Nursing, University of Salford, Manchester Description Cycling her usual journey home from work, Karen was attacked by four lads. It shattered her life. Karen only disclosed the nature of the assault late 2007, having been sufficiently provoked by mental health services who had attributed her general failure to cope with life with a personality disorder diagnosis. This book charts Karen's journey within the mental health system when she decided to complain about the 'care' she received, the complaints process, the responses she received and the effect on her care - both positive and negative. Karen hopes that it will offer encouragement to those who may find themselves in a similar position in the knowledge that despite how bad things may seem, there is always someone willing to listen and to help you try to change things, and encourage healthcare providers to reflect upon what they bring to the process of recovery. The mental health Trust didn't want Karen to publish this book as it is. They wanted to impose what was acceptable to them, and in doing so created considerable distress and further isolated Karen from the support she needs. This made Karen more determined to publish her story, as it happened. The mental health system is only as good as the people willing to question it.

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9781849910552

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