issue 06 Summer '09
Inner space for women’s mental health & wellbeing (across Surrey and the south east)
Let’s get busy!
Spring Clean: get down and dirty Do good, feel great: volunteering has its own payoff Work it! Supported employment special feature
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s r e d a e r y Surre y r a u t c n a S r u o o t Come ! s y a d g n i e b l l e w s ’ women
Editorial comment A recent report
from the NHS Information Centre* tells us there is a rise in women ‘hit by mental illness’ (Health Services Journal (HSJ), March ’09). Particularly affected are women aged 45-54 and the gender disparity continues in older people. The survey looked at eating disorders and post traumatic stress disorder (previous surveys excluded these) as well as other ‘common mental disorders’ (CMD) including psychosis, anti-social or borderline personality disorders and suicidal thoughts and attempts, and self harm. The survey looked at one week in the lives of people in private dwellings across England. Overall, one woman in five had a CMD during the week before interview compared with one man in eight. Explanations for this include the impact of having children, exposure to domestic or sexual violence, adverse experiences in childhood, and women’s relative poverty. Well there you go. Explanations we’ve been citing for ages? You bet! The chief executive of the NHS Information Centre said in the HSJ article, ‘It could be that a fresh look at the needs of women is needed.’ We don’t need a ‘fresh’ look. Women’s mental health needs have been highlighted in many excellent documents and projects, beginning in 2003 with ‘Into the Mainstream; women’s mental health’ a department of health framework. The document outlined what needed to happen, following implementation guidelines spelled out how it should happen. Our own local initiatives including the Surrey Strategy for Women’s Mental Health and the south east Peri-natal Strategy and project, present evidence and solutions around improving gender sensitive mental health services. Above all, it is our own knowledge and
experience (in this I include patients/service users, carers, and people who campaign for better services in the statutory and voluntary sectors) that has informed people about how much better mental health services could respond to women, and men. Can we now add a-nother - ‘fresh look’? Or are we all too bruised from banging our heads against the brick walls lined with shelves of research and evidence and outcome-based guidelines sitting collecting dust? Talking about dust… There’s a little Spring madness about this issue. We’re encouraging you to pick up a duster and Spring Clean! Whatever next?! But… When you get down and (a bit) dirty, you’d be surprised how good it is for the soul (or should that be ‘sole’ – floors clean enough to walk on barefoot? LoL) When you’ve ‘done through’ inside, exchange the duster for a make-up brush and get our tips on a Spring Clean you! We’re also looking at employment and volunteering in this issue. Plus we have stories from survivors of mental ill health, and how volunteering can lift your spirits. So put your feet up and enjoy your Sanctuary…
Megan
*Research document: go to www.ic.nhs.uk then statistics, then mental health, then mental health surveys in box on left, click on the 2009 document ‘Adult Psychiatry Morbidity in England 2007’
If you would like to comment or contribute ideas, letters, we would love to hear from you. Write to Sanctuary, Let’s Link, PO Box 533, Betchworth RH4 9FL or email Megan; megan.aspel@sky.com or phone 07824 364 703
Sanctuary is free to everyone. Managing Editor: Megan Aspel Assistant Editor: Louisa Daniels Editorial Group: Elaine, Ashley, Diane Sanctuary is commissioned by NHS Surrey Design by Aspects: tom@aspectsgd.com www.aspectsgd.com Printed by Reliant Colour Solutions: www.reliantcolour.com No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior permission of the publishers. ©ASPECTS 2009.
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SprinΩ Cƒean! The birds are singing,
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the flowers are blooming and the days are lengthening. All are delightful signs that spring is here and summer, we hope is not far away. But while the outside world becomes more inviting, our homes, having been shrouded in a dark, cold winter, are in need of a refresh. Cue the Spring Clean! The ‘chore’ of the season clears away winter cobwebs, and it gets us organised and ready for the summer months. However, as well as a tidy home, spring cleaning can do a lot more for us than we may realise. Obviously, as with any physical activity, the spring clean can help us to get fitter (an ideal time to start that resolution), but furthermore, as little as twenty minutes of exercise a week can improve mental health conditions. In a house bursting with clutter, it is easy to feel overwhelmed, and it can be hard to shift the dread that is
sometimes associated with a big clean up. Following a good clear out however, we often feel more positive about ourselves and our lives. This is because things are in order, and so they feel more manageable. For instance, the bills are paid on time because they are easier to find! If the job seems too overwhelming, then the important thing is to focus on one room, or even one corner, at a time. Your home may take anything from a day to a month to spring clean, but in committing to the idea, and by making a start, it means that you will complete the job. Plan and make time for it to be workable. There is no point in setting unrealistic goals that cannot be met. Failure is not good for self-esteem. But a challenge can be very good for us. The first thing to do is to clear the clutter. This can be difficult because it involves parting with objects that we may
Get down and a bit dirty. Louisa has top tips to making cleaning a Spring fresh breeze.
feel attached to. For this reason, it is useful to organise items in relation to their need. Start by clearing any storage spaces so that you have room to organise your belongings. Then, anything that means a lot to you, but that you do not need to have out, put away in a box. Try to be strict though and only allow for a couple of boxes for your treasures! Clear out any wardrobe space and store any seasonal clothes. Ideally, you should have a more organised space that will be easier to clean, and a large pile for the local charity shop. Clearing clutter can be very cathartic because it helps our minds to feel less cluttered too. Following this, open all the windows and let in some fresh air. Pull out all of the furniture and clean the dust and dirt. Perhaps use this time to rearrange any furniture so that you have more opportunities to look out of the window or to enjoy a painting.
Do not forget to clear out the medicine cabinets and kitchen cupboards for anything out of date. Although not necessary, it could be a good time to inject some life into your surroundings by adding new items. It doesn’t have to be expensive. As well as any finds in the charity shops, you could make your own. Just a few new cushions could work wonders and create a fresher environment. Spring Cleaning doesn’t have to be laborious. Try to enjoy the task by listening to music when you do it. While cleaning, be mindful of what you are doing and visualise the rooms looking and feeling better. The finished result will make the most of what you own and give you a sense of achievement. Plus, not only will the exercise help tone your sleepy muscles, it will also release endorphins. Get the ‘all round feeling better’ experience and go Spring Clean!
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We can work it out 6
The work place can be alive with opportunity or threat. It can exacerbate a mental health problem or even induce one. If you have been out of work for some time because of your mental ill health, you know how hard it is to contemplate employment let alone get out there and find it. And of course, the current economic climate creates its own challenges. Being a woman suffering mental ill health can bring its own difficulties when trying to access employment. According to research evidence, you are more likely than a man to have a raft of responsibilities such as child-care. Household tasks, food shopping, cooking and clearing are still traditionally a woman’s work. Even if you have a job, those responsibilities are unlikely to diminish. Women are also half as likely as men to be in paid employment and are disproportionately represented in low paid and insecure employment. If her mental health suffers as well, a woman’s employment prospects can be particularly bleak. Fortunately, in Surrey and the south east, there are specialist supported employment organisations dedicated to helping people with mental health problems who understand women’s roles and responsibilities. Here’s a look at some of the organisations across Surrey and the south east:
ESRA Short for Employment, Support and Re-training Agency, ESRA is based in Redhill in East Surrey. Set up in 1980 the service has developed significantly over the years. They provide local specialist employment related services to individuals with mental health issues who are looking to access or retain work. They also offer advice and support around recruiting or retaining valuable staff to employers.
How it works Guidance is given on what to do, where to go, how benefits may be affected, what training/re-training you need and whether it is part time or full time work you are after. If you are already in work, struggling because of a mental health issue and worried your employer won’t understand, ESRA can help. You will get one-to-one support from an advisor who will work with you to explore options to meet your employment or training needs. This will include an agreed action plan where you will be set realistic goals. The type of support offered will include: Confidential one to one support and guidance on finding employment or further training. Advice on benefits and how they might be affected if you start work. Vocational profiling. Attendance at ESRA's Moving On Course. Help with job search and approaching employers. Help with completing c.v.'s and application forms. ESRA Ltd Floor 2, Rawlinson House 7-9 London Road Redhill Surrey RH1 1LY tel. 01737 772 115
Susie’s story Susie (not her real name) is a black belt in taekwondo and recently represented England in the European Championships where she received a silver medal. For years Susie suffered with depression, which led to drug and alcohol misuse and numerous run-ins with the police. She spent the majority of her late teens in secure units. “During my teens and early twenties, my depressive tendencies made me feel unsafe. I was getting into all sorts of trouble and eventually I became too scared to go out alone. Regular employment was out of the question. “Eventually, with the help of a support worker, I began to get out a bit more, and one day I came across a poster advertising local taekwondo classes. I’d done karate when I was younger and thought I’d give it a go. My support worker encouraged and accompanied me, and after my first class I was hooked. After two months of taekwondo I was a completely different person: more confident, more optimistic. This gave me the boost I needed, and I started thinking about doing some voluntary work. “My social worker put me in touch with ESRA, and I began a course on getting back to work. It was all quite daunting. I was still on medication, I didn’t drive and I had hardly spoken to anyone in years. The prospect of group work was utterly terrifying. But the people at ESRA were amazing. Sara, my employment support worker, helped me focus on what I wanted to do and how I should go about achieving it. I’d always been sporty and wanted to do something in that area. I had one scary interview for a job I didn’t want and pulled out of another. I was so nervous about the whole thing. It was clearly going to be a long process. “In the meantime, the taekwondo was going really well. My instructor had noticed my ‘natural ability’ and offered me a voluntary teaching position. In March 2004, after only three years of training, I achieved my black belt. Back at ESRA, Sara suggested a meeting with my taekwondo instructor about possibly working for him. Next thing I know, after Sara’s persistence, I was offered the position of assistant instructor! I couldn’t believe it. “I am now a fully qualified instructor. I still have bad days when I can’t deal with anything, but I know that if things get too much I can call on ESRA. “Things have really turned around for me. I have now opened two of my own taekwondo schools and have turned my hobby into a fulltime job – and I’m loving every minute of it. A few years ago all this would have seemed impossible. I just needed someone to believe in me, and someone to help me back into work.”
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Oakleaf Enterprise
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When you have been out of the work ‘loop’ for some time due to your mental ill health, it can be extremely hard to visualise how you might get back into the work routine. Other things have taken over your life and it isn’t a simple matter of walking into a job. Oakleaf believe in ‘rethinking recruitment, reworking disability’. What they mean is that many people can and want to change direction. A fresh start with new found talents or using previous skills can be a way to forge ahead. Oakleaf know how daunting returning to work can be, especially if someone has been reliant on benefits and wondering how work could affect their entitlement. Advisors at Oakleaf can give you all the information and support you need to ensure you feel confident about your financial situation when you return to paid employment. Compiling CVs, carrying out a job search, filling out applications, writing cover letters; you will have help every step of the way. Oakleaf will also help you prepare for interview and even accompany you to give you added re-assurance. Service users have a say in how the organisation and its service develops and feed comments and reports directly to trustees. There is a social aspect as well with outings organised and a newsletter produced in Oakleaf’s IT department/ Oakleaf’s managing director, Clive Stone said, “People with a mental illness are exposed to deep levels of stigma, it can be an uphill struggle for them to find a job let alone keep one; they have the highest unemployment rate of all disabled groups; and fewer than one in four employers are willing to recruit them. “At Oakleaf, we like to level the playing field. We offer vocational training and voluntary work placements that require commitment without the pressures of paid work; we forge links with employers who are knowledgeable and sympathetic to mental health problems; we open up employment prospects because work is the best way out of poverty. It offers people the independence they need and the dignity they deserve. Last year we empowered over 40 people to reenter the job market.”
Oakleaf Enterprise 101 Walnut Tree Close Guildford Surrey GU1 4UQ T. 01483 303649 Email: info@oakleaf-enterprise.org
Richmond Fellowship Trust
Tania’s story
Richmond Fellowship (RF) is one of the biggest voluntary sector providers of mental health care in the country. They have Supported Employment services across the south east, from Milton Keynes to Southend-on-Sea where they help people gain and retain employment. RF’s staff are testament to how the organisation ‘grows its own’ with many making their own personal recovery journey from mental ill health. They offer support into work, training, work experience and rehabilitation to people whose mental ill health has or may put them at risk of being excluded from the labour market. Services are adaptable, a key element in helping people with a wide range of needs. For instance, in Surrey there is horticultural training at the Caterham garden centre for those wishing to gain a nationally recognised qualification. The opportunity to gain realistic work experience and training is also available through external work, including park maintenance, gardening contracts. In Redhill Art Matters offers arts and crafts training such as painting, carving, upholstery, mosaic work, gilding, printing and wood craft skills. Across Surrey RF's, employment services offer a range of support aiming to help people achieve recovery through mainstream employment, social inclusion and IT training. Broadly, the services include: Employment advice to support individuals into paid work In-house work placements that develop work skills and selfconfidence In-house training programmes, helping service users to further develop their skills and confidence Retain, an employment service available in a limited number of areas at present, is focused on supporting people with mental health problems who are still employed but at risk of losing their job. RF are hoping to expand this service in the future Visit their website for more details www.richmondfellowship. org.uk or contact the Head Office
Richmond Fellowship Head Office/ General enquiries 80 Holloway Road London N7 8JG Tel: 020 7697 3300 RF Mid & West Surrey: 01372 363 934 RF Redhill: 01737 771 282 Old Moat Garden Centre: 01372 731971 Art Matters (Redhill): 01737 766212
“As a teenager, I was dedicated to music but any hopes of my having the musical career I was aiming for were destroyed when, at the age of 18, I had a breakdown whilst at music college. “Following the breakdown, my life for the next 25 years was littered with a long succession of largely unrewarding jobs. These included being a cook, running a post office and selling petrol. Finally, after two redundancies in as many years, I was suspended and eventually dismissed from a medical receptionist/computer operator post because of my extreme agitation and anxiety. I began to despair of ever being able to support myself again. “When I was referred to Richmond Fellowship’s service, QEST, it seemed like a lifeline. I knew I needed assessment, information and advice and welcomed this opportunity to get these things. I completed a questionnaire and psychometric test which correctly highlighted important characteristics, such as creativity and self-reliance. Musical performance and teaching or instrument making were strongly indicated as potential careers for me, but as I had neither qualifications nor resources, there did not seem much hope of these dream jobs becoming a reality. “Whilst unemployed, I had taken up the violin again after 30 years. I also learned the viola and joined some local groups. I wanted to take a diploma but could not obtain funding. “The turning point for me came when my employment adviser encouraged me to make enquiries regarding instrumental teaching in schools, a service run by the county council, and this proved to be a breakthrough. A part-time string teacher was urgently needed and I found myself hired for about eight hours per week from May until the end of the school year. It was a bit tricky at first stepping into the shoes of someone so highly respected, but the children seemed to respond well to me. “I needed to complete an application pack retrospectively, which caused me some anxiety over explaining a bad medical history and a motley assortment of jobs. This all had to be repeated when I applied for the full-time post together with a resume of my musical experience. It was very reassuring to have my employment adviser’s help during the preparation. All my pupils passed their violin examinations and I was offered a position, on an almost full-time basis. “In the end, my past had not proved an insurmountable barrier, although I now intend to undertake more study towards relevant diplomas. I cannot thank Richmond Fellowship enough for the kindness, support and encouragement I received and which gave me the confidence to obtain work and finally start rebuilding my life.”
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Speaking out for Aservices mental health survivor asks and support to do more to survival help vulnerable women. I find as a survivor in the south east there isn’t much help for women with mental health issues. People seem to think that after six months all is okay, when in fact it takes years to get well, even more without the right help. And mental ill health must be the hardest illness to admit to having to anyone. I do tell people about my illness because I suffer with depression and anxiety attacks and much of this is due to how I am treated by others. But I refuse to be a victim and can be quite defensive when under attack mentally or physically. I have come to recognise though that I only feel safe and normal when around others like myself. I live in Buckinghamshire and we need more groups in this area, and more support. I meet many women who haven’t left their home in months due to violent abuse, but no authority has noticed the absence of the individual and, alas, no help is therefore given.
People need to be more aware of what a horrible place these poor people are trapped in. Your house becomes you cell. Children end up doing all the outdoor chores like shopping and this drains them mentally too: all because Mum is unable to leave the house. I understand this trap. It took ages to be seen by a social worker, let alone get any other help. My message is that when the authorities know that someone is suffering but haven’t seen them for a while, knock on their door. Find out if they need help. You might be the ‘angel’ they have been waiting for. So please, to all mental health, domestic abuse and other services in the south east; put more in to supporting those of us who are in this trap. It can feel that you don’t care. Now it is time to care. And my final plea; more counselling to be available – or even a cup of tea, a bit of time and a chat...
The thought of returning to work can often feel like a living nightmare. But, likewise, having nothing productive to do is making daily life a blur. On the one hand you know your limits, but on the other, you want to do something, something that can fit into life. For these reasons, volunteering is a great option. I know that I, a service user, felt this way about doing more. Going to therapy twice a week and getting out of bed felt difficult. But slowly, as I gained more energy, I felt that I needed something else. So, one day I went into a local shop and found the courage to say, ‘I’d like to volunteer please.’ It was as easy as that, though at the time I recall feeling very nervous. Since then, my self confidence has returned and I feel more valuable as a result, and it seems I’m not the only one. Research carried out in 2003 by the National Centre for Volunteering concluded that people with experience of mental ill health found that volunteering had a positive effect on their lives. As well as gaining new experiences and being rewarding, the respondents said that volunteering gave their lives more structure, it widened their social network and it improved their vocational and interpersonal skills, not to mention increasing their self esteem. There are so many volunteering opportunities out there. For instance, you can walk into any charity shop and ask if they need help. You can search the internet and check the homepages of a favourite charity or organisation. Local councils have information about voluntary projects taking place in your local area, and there are the national volunteer organisations, www.do-it.org.uk and www.volunteering.org.uk. There is a huge amount of choice and so it is relatively easy to match a role with a particular interest. Don’t assume that you need to donate huge amounts of time. The good thing about volunteering is that you do what you can manage to do, and you are free to increase the time that you give when it is right for you to do so. All time is valuable, so do not underestimate the few hours a week that you can give. Time is money, remember. For example, every 4 hours of volunteering with Oxfam will pay for seeds for two families in Malawi to grow enough food for a year! Volunteering not only helps other people, but it can give you a boost unlike anything else. When I took on the role at the Oxfam shop I didn’t realise how it would affect me. Fortunately, I found a fantastic team of people and an understanding atmosphere. Working there has enabled me to think about the future and I am able to contemplate returning to work, and I know that no matter what I go on to do, I will always stay involved with the shop and the team, for they are now a part of who I am.
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Directory Mental health NHS trusts across the south east........................................................
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• Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. T. BN13 3EP. T: 01903 843000 • Kent & Medway NHS Social Care Partnership Trust. T. 01732 520400 • Isle Of Wight Healthcare NHS Trust. T. 01983 524081 • Hampshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. T. 023 8087 4300 • Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. T. 01344 415 600 • Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust. T. 01865 778911 • Milton Keynes PCT. T. 01908 243933
Alcohol and drugs........................................
• Drinkline, 0800 917 8282 • Al-Anon, support for family and friends of alcoholics, find a local group 020 7403 0888. • Alcoholics Anonymous, find a local group – 0845 769 7555 • Drugscope, for information, www.drugscope.org.uk • Frank (for young people and parents) www.talktofrank.com • Surrey Drug & Alcohol Action Team – for local services, www. surreydat.org.uk
Anger................................................................. • British Association of Anger Management, 0845 1300 286 www.angermanage.co.uk
Anxiety............................................................. • No Panic, 0808 808 0545. www.nopanic.org.uk; • National Phobics Society, 0870 7700 456 www.phobics-society.org.uk; • First Steps to Freedom, 0845 120 2916 www.first-steps.org; www.anxietycare.org.uk (enquiries@anxietycare.org.uk to find out about accessing free advice and support)
Bereavement and loss................................... • Cruse 08701671677 www.crusebereavementcare.org.uk
Counselling..................................................... (but please note, waiting times can be long) • British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy, 0870 443 5252 www.bacp.co.uk (for details of local practitioners) • Heads Together (young people 14-25) 01737 378481. No fees
• Croydon Pastoral Foundation, 020 8760 0665. Negotiable rates according to means • North Surrey Community Counselling Partnership, 01932 244070 www.nsccp.co.uk A sliding scale fee basis operates (up to £40.00 per session) • Pathways Counselling Centre, Epsom, 01372 743338. Professional counselling, normal rates apply • Redhill Counselling Centre, 01737 772844. Negotiable rates • RELATE, relationship counselling, 0845 4561310 www.relate.org.uk, for a local branch. A fee is charged for appointments. • Relateen, Epsom (part of RELATE but for young people disturbed/worried about parent’s relationship problems) 01372 722976 • Seastone Possibilities, Trauma Resolution Treatment 01306 640073 / 01737 249364 email: seastone@talktalk.net
Debt counselling........................................... • Christians Against Poverty; freephone 0800 328 0006 www.capuk.org
Depression....................................................... • Depression Alliance, 0845 123 2320 www.depressionalliance.org
Direct Payments............................................. this is money allocated directly to a patient/service user to enable them to have more choice and independence about the support/facilities they can access in the community. For more information contact: • Surrey Independent Living Council (SILC), Astolat, Coniers Way, Burpham, Guildford GU4 7HL. T. 01483 458111
Domestic abuse............................................... • Surrey Domestic Abuse Helpline (24hr) – 01483 776822 • East Surrey Domestic Abuse Services (covering Reigate & Banstead, Mole Valley & Tandridge) - 01737 771350 Email: support@esdas.org.uk Website: www.esdas.org.uk 9am – 4pm, Monday to Friday, confidential answer phone out of hours. • North West Surrey Outreach Service (covering Woking, Runnymede & Surrey Heath) run by Surrey Women’s Aid 01483 776822 (24hr) • North Surrey Outreach Service (covering Epsom & Ewell,
Sanctuary magazine started in Surrey, commissioned by Surrey PCT. With extra help from Care Services Improvement Partnership in the south east, the magazine has a small circulation across Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire and Milton Keynes, as well as Surrey. We will continue to list organisations and help lines in Surrey in this directory but we’ve added each mental health trust in the south east and will include other important contact details as we can and space permitting.
We are building on this directory all the time. If you have anything to add that you think will benefit women’s mental health and wellbeing in Surrey, please let us know. You can contact Santuary magazine c/o Let's Link, PO Box 533, Betchworth, RH4 9FL. Tel. 07824 364703; email; meganaspel@sky.com
Elmbridge & Spelthorne) run by Walton & Hersham Citizen’s Advice Bureau - 01932 260690 Email: nsdvoutreach.walton@cabnet.org.uk Website: www.waltonadvice.demon.co.uk 9.30 am – 4.30 pm Monday to Friday, confidential answer phone out of hours • South West Surrey Outreach Service (covering Guildford & Waverley) run by CAHA - 01483 577392 9.00 am - 3.00pm Monday – Friday, confidential answer phone out of hours
Survivors of childhood abuse................... • C.I.S.‘ters for adult women sexually abused as children Run by survivors for survivors – helpline Saturdays 10am – midday 023 80 338080
Eating disorders........................................... anorexia, bulimia • Eating Disorders Associations, 0845 634 1414 www.eduk.com
Hearing Voices................................................ • Rethink, 020 8974 6814 www.rethink.org
Post natal depression pregnancy and birth issues....................... • Association for Postnatal Illness, 0207 3860 868. www.apni.org; www.surrey.nhs.uk; www.babycentre.co.uk; www.netmums.com
Self harm......................................................... • www.selfharm.org.uk; www.lifesigns.org.uk; • www.rcpsych.ac.uk/cru/auditselfharm
Other useful contacts................................. Crisis numbers; • Samaritans, 08457 909090 www.samaritans.org.uk • Sane Line (12noon – 2am daily) 08457 678000. National out of hours helpline for anyone coping with mental illness – sufferers, carers, relatives or friends. • Surrey & Borders Partnership NHS Trust, 01737 778142 (24hrs) • Childline; 0800 1111 Community Mental Health Teams (CMHTs) • Spelthorne CMHT 01784 440204 • West Elmbridge CMHT 01932 876601
• Runneymede CMHT 01932 723392 • Woking CMHT 01483 756318 • Hollies CMHT 01252 312788 (8.30-5.30 Mon -Fri) • Surrey Heath CMHT 01276 671102 • Guildford CMHT 01483 443551 • Waverley CMHT 01483 517200 • Godalming CMHT 01483 415155 • Haslemere CMHT 01483 783090 • Farnham CMHT 01483 782095 • Conifers CMHT - Cove, Fleet & Yateley Area • Briarwood, Sorrell Close, Broadhurst, Cove, Farnborough • Hampshire GU15 9XW (9.00-5.00 Mon-Fri) • Early Intervention in Psychosis, 01372 206262. For 14 – 35 year olds who have had a first episode of psychosis within recent years. • MIND, national organisation for mental health with local branches – www.mind.org.uk Infoline 0845 766 0163. Mind produce booklets on various mental health issues and campaign for better services • Mental Health Foundation, national organisation for information, campaigns, news, interaction, including information on the relation between diet and mental health; www.mentalhealth.org.uk Primary Care Mental Health Teams (PCMHTs) • for long term and complex mental health needs and for referral to specialist services such as Crisis Assessment & Treatment Team, Eating Disorders service, Continuing Needs services. Open Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm • East Elmbridge PCMHT – 020 8873 4300 • Epsom, Ewell & Banstead PCMHT – 01372 204000 • Mole Valley PCMHT – 01306 502400 • Redhill PCMHT – 01737 272301 • Tandridge PCMHT – 01883 385481 • Psychotherapy Service (Surrey & Borders Partnership NHS Trust). • Referral only but you can access an information leaflet; contact the Psychotherapy Service at Shaw’s Corner, Blackborough Road, Reigate RH2 7DG. T. 01737 277706 • Samaritans; 08457 909090 • Surrey & Borders Partnership NHS Trust, for mental health and learning disabilities services - 01883 383838 • Surrey Police; 0845 125 2222
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“Violence against women is an issue that cannot wait. A brief look at the statistics makes it clear. At least one out or every three women is likely to be beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused in her lifetime…
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No country, no culture, no woman
...young or old is immune to this scourge. Far too often the crimes go unpunished, the perpetrators walk free.” (Ban Ki-moon, Secretary General United Nations)
Endviolence against
women
It is heartening
to hear Ban Ki-moon’s words, spoken at the Commission on the Status of Women, in New York in 2008. He recognises, in his official and humanitarian capacity that violence against women (VAW) is one of the key causes and consequences of women’s inequality. He stated that it is also a violation of women’s and girl’s fundamental human rights. It becomes far less heartening when you start to look at the severity of the problem. ‘Problem’ is too light a word; each instance is an appalling injustice perpetrated by one – socalled – human being to another. The statistics make grim reading. It is estimated that 80,000 women in the UK suffer rape every year. At least 32% of children, mostly girls (although it is believed boys/adult males are less likely to disclose) experience some form of child sexual abuse. An estimated 66,000 women living in the UK have undergone female genital mutilation (FGM) and 21,000 girls under 16 are currently at risk. VAW takes many forms: rape and sexual abuse in child and adulthood; female genital mutilation; forced or early marriage; stalking; crimes in the name of ‘honour’; trafficking and sexual exploitation, sexual harassment and domestic abuse. The latter takes many forms in itself, from mental and emotional abuse to physical violence. At the heart of it all, arguably, is one word: control. In the UK three million females experience violence and many more are living with the legacy of childhood abuse. It is mostly committed by men that women know or with whom they have – or had - a close relationship. The Equality and Human Rights Commission and End Violence Against Women (EVAW) have been campaigning for better funding of specialist services after identifying a ‘Map of Gaps’ across England and Wales. Gaps in funding and provision were worst in east and south east of England. Under-funding shows lack of foresight when you consider the costs attached to VAW. Estimated to be as serious a cause of death, incapacity and ill health as cancer or traffic accidents (World Bank) VAW, as many of our readers sadly know, is also an underlying cause of mental health problems. Costs for the NHS alone are £1.2billion a year for physical injuries and £176 million for mental health care.
The World Health Organisation states up to 60% of women in the UK mental health services have been sexually assaulted in their lifetimes. Long term mental ill health is often linked to child sexual abuse and domestic violence. With mental health trusts now having to ask patients if they have experienced or are experiencing some form of abuse, the provision of safe and understanding support services has never been more critical. Welcome then is the pledge in March from Harriet Harman of 1.6 million pounds for rape crisis centres and The Survivor’s Trust sexual violence charities across England and Wales. But whilst funding for these essential services is a big step in the right direction, some would say there needs to be far more done to change legislation and culture. One leading feminist and barrister, American Catherine MacKinnon believes that until sex inequality is tackled legally, women will continue to be raped, abused and used as sexual objects*. She suggests that rape law enshrines rapists’ points of view because most rapists are men and most legislators are men and most judges are men and the law of rape was created when women weren’t even allowed to vote! However, many men and women campaign for and believe in better justice and support for all victims. But alarmingly there is a substantial number who think it is alright to hit or even rape a woman in certain circumstances. A recent online survey, Violence Against Women opinion poll Feb ’09, included in a set of questions used in telephone interviews with 915 people, this; ‘Should a woman be held responsible, partly responsible or never responsible if she is sexually assaulted or raped in’ and then followed different scenarios. It was sickening to learn that for instance if she does not say NO clearly to the man, 10% of the 915 said she should be held responsible, 39% said partly responsible and only 48% never responsible. We are not talking about playing games here, leading possibly to consensual sex. We are talking about rape! How can rape or sexual assault ever be justified?! But the worst is yet to come: out of the total percentage of people thinking she was to blame, partly to blame or never to blame, 11%, 40% and 46% respectively, with some ‘don’t knows’ were women! With that number of the ‘Sisterhood’ failing us, do we ever stand a chance of true and honest equality – sexual or otherwise?
*according to recent research there is a chemical part of a man’s brain that responds to a sexualised image of a woman as though she was an object, not a human being. taken from an interview with Catherine MacKinnon by Stuart Jeffries, The Guardian, 2006. Other information gathered from BBC news online, the Women’s Resource Centre, www.wrc.org.uk and VAW and health – a briefing from www.endviolenceagainstwomen.org.uk If you have been affected by this article and would like to talk to someone, please see pages 20 and 21 for advice and support services in the south east.
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Back to the Land – Girls? We may not be fighting a world war (arguably) but the global economic recession is a good reason to think about what we eat, where we get it from and how we can better help ourselves, and the environment. Perhaps it’s time to turn back the clock...
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The Women’s Land Army (WLA), or Land Girls as they became known saved Britain’s bacon (literally) after World War I but specifically in WWII. Set up in 1918 following a disastrous harvest in 1917 that left the country with only three weeks food following German naval blockades on British food imports, the WLA kept Britain from starvation. The WLA was led by pioneering Lady Trudie Denman. There were 23,000 Land Girls following the 1st world war but that number rose to 100,000 by World War II. In 1939 the Ministry of Agriculture launched one of the most memorable campaigns of the 20th Century: Dig for Victory. The whole of Britain’s home front was encouraged to transform private gardens into miniallotments. People were encouraged to keep chickens or ducks for their eggs and the nation, with rationing biting hard, was being educated in the culinary delights of rabbit stew and the such like. By 1945 over 1.4 million people had allotments and our food imports had halved. Land Girls were the labour force in the fields. They did everything the men had done before going off to war. Not only did they plant and harvest wheat; they milked cows and delivered the milk by pony and trap to local houses; they picked sprouts; they dug potatoes; they tended flocks of sheep; looked after pigs and poultry; they picked fruit. There were specialists who were trained in rat-catching and there was the Timber Corps, which felled, hauled and milled Britain's commercial forests A step too far for we modern ‘girls’ perhaps but the ‘dig for victory’ idea is a compelling one. More and more people are purchasing allotments or turning part of the garden into a vegetable patch. You can even grow your own in a window box or pots. So, don your overalls, pick up a fork and dig for your own little bit of victory: it’s the new way to veg out.
Making a start Firstly you need to decide where to grow. This might be decided for you if you have limited space. The soil needs to be well dug and fertilised. Having your own compost means you have nutritious soil food easily available and you are also reducing waste. Once your plot is ready the fun bit starts; choosing your favourite veggies to grow. Don’t be too ambitious. The list of what you can grow is long but if you are a novice it might be wise to start with the basics.
Spud you like You can grow potatoes in bags or pots from your garden centre:plant four seed potatoes per bag or two in a 12in pot. If you have more room, put some early varieties in the soil and you should have a harvest in July.
Know your onions Onions are a mainstay for any kitchen and diet. They are very good for you and spice up any meal or salad (slice tomatoes and onions, drizzle olive oil and a drop of vinegar over, then sprinkle with black pepper, a little salt and chopped basil. Yum!) Onions can be grown from seed or from onion sets (young bulbs), throughout April. Plant sets 4 in apart in rows – as many as your plot will allow. This is also the month to plant summer cabbage and artichokes, both globe and Jerusalem, leeks, radishes, peas, beetroot and many more.
Contacts Caterham (Queens Park Nursery) Employment Service Queens Park Caterham CR3 5YA Tel: 01883 332 482 Old Moat Garden Centre. Horton Lane Epsom JT19 8PQ. Tel: 01372 204253
Don’t want to be a new age land girl? If growing your own is not for you, consider picking your own which is almost as satisfying and someone else has done all the hard 17 graft. Or try and find local produce. Farmer’s markets, the regular markets in towns around the south east and farm shops have seasonal vegetables and fruit. Buy wisely and you shouldn’t be paying any more than in the supermarket, and the freshness is guaranteed.
Sowing the seeds of content April/May is the time to get sowing. Carrots, beetroot, lettuce (which can grow in a pot), broad beans, cabbage, leeks, celery, tomatoes (small varieties are good in pots), peas and a wealth of other goodies start their journey at this time of year. Think of what you like to eat, how much room you have and be honest about the time you will give to tending everything. Then choose your crop.
Get help and advice Garden centres, the Internet, magazines (although these can be expensive) all have good advice on how to start growing your own. Try the BBC Food online service at www.bbc.co.uk/gardening/grow_your_own where there is a very good getting started section. If you are in Surrey, there are two supported employment garden centres in Caterham and Epsom.
Learning to be a Land Girl was especially tough for young women from the cities with no rural experience. One girl helping with the milking on a farm was told by the herdsman to wash down the next cow, ready for him to milk. When he turned to check she was washing the udders properly, he was exasperated to see the girl had taken him literally and was washing the cow from head to hooves with soapy water! He may have been cross but we like to think the cow rather liked it!
You may wonder where you’re heading when relapse strikes and mental health recovery seems a distant dream. But Sanctuary discovers from one survivor that relapse doesn’t have to lead to a dead end. Mental ill health can occur when someone has experienced domestic abuse. Laura from East Surrey Domestic Abuse Services explains what can happen.
Many
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people still believe that domestic abuse only involves physical violence. That is simply not true. Domestic abuse can be psychological, sexual, financial, emotional OR physical. It is all about subjecting somebody to these forms of abuse in order to gain power and control over them. Abusers can be partners or family members and it happens across race, class, sexuality and gender. Whilst survivors often focus on their physical safety, their emotional well being may fall by the way side. However, according to a psychological study, domestic violence and other abuse is the most common cause of depression and other mental health difficulties in women.
Breaking it down into numbers Women experiencing domestic violence are: • four times more likely to suffer depression • four times more likely to be suicidal and • four times more likely to suffer from post traumatic stress disorder than women who do not experience domestic abuse. Other psychological impacts of domestic abuse can include anxiety, self-harm, low self-esteem issues or drug and alcohol misuse. Many survivors think that once the
abuse is over and they have moved away everything will return to normal again. They feel that the worst is over so things will improve and they want to forget all about it and move forward. In some cases they are right – not all women who have experienced domestic abuse need or want special help. In some ways they are right – studies reveal that when violence stops mental health improves. However, this isn’t true for everybody. Leaving an abuser may be the first step, but often is not the last, in recovering your mental wellbeing. Indeed, in some cases, women can experience depression, anxiety, panic attacks, flashbacks and nightmares many years after the abuse has stopped. Nonetheless, they may not feel that they can or should get any help. There are many reasons for this. It is likely that an abuser has used their deteriorating mental health to threaten and control them in the past, (e.g. telling them that nobody would believe them because they are ‘crazy’ or that the children will be taken away from them). Having heard such threats over a prolonged period of time it’s not surprising that they are believed and survivors may be afraid to get the help they need. A survivor may feel that people won’t understand and sadly they may even feel that they deserve to feel this way; low self-esteem or a
mistaken sense of guilt, or even not understanding themselves can make them feel the way they do. However, by repressing these feelings and trying to ignore them it is likely the feelings will come back at a later date and probably twice as powerful, tragically impacting on their mental health. If a survivor identifies that they need some help with their mental health it is important that they know what help could be available to them. They could talk to their GP and get advice from them. They may decide to talk to a local domestic abuse service, which can offer emotional support and advice on counselling and support groups. It can also help to look on the internet or use the library to identify what you are feeling, why you may be feeling it and proactive ways to handle these emotions. To have these feelings is perfectly normal and you don’t have to cope with them on your own. It is important to fully deal with them only when you are ready to do so. In the meantime monitoring them and understanding where they come from will help you to look after yourself and feel better.
Statistics: Sane Responses: good practice guidelines for domestic violence and mental health services. Greater London Domestic Violence Project. See the directory for domestic abuse helplines.
Satnav to
recovery When a relapse hits, it can be hard to see the journey of recovery as continuous. One minute you‘re feeling better and on top of the world, and then the next, you’re back at square one. Old behaviour creeps in and, like a ghost that won’t leave, lurks in your shadows. The world feels out of reach, again, and the clouds roll in, ready to pour down on your parade. However, despite the fears, a relapse is very much a part of recovery. Think first about how you got to the point of relapse, after all, some form of recovery must have taken place for there to be a relapse. It is easy to feel that because life is lighter, then you have tackled your issues. You may well have done. But, at the very least you have found a way to move on. Whatever you think about your recovery, it is important not to forget what you have been through and learnt along the way. A relapse does not in any way mean that all of the good has been undone. In fact, a relapse can be beneficial in working out the triggers, and thus you can discover ways to work through these. For instance, try to look at why you relapsed and learn from it by being curious, ask yourself questions, such as, What happened in the time before the relapse? Have I forgotten to use the strategies I have learnt? By doing this you may be able to promptly regain control and get back on track. If you feel that you need some more professional help, go to your doctor straight away. There is absolutely no shame in asking for help, it is understandable and it is ok. After all, you deserve to feel better. Everything that you achieved previously will be built upon and strengthened. Nothing is lost, and neither are you. The road to recovery is not often a smooth one. Any relapse, depending on its power, can feel like a bump in the tarmac or a motorway pile up. However, it is important to remember that no matter how terrible it feels, you are not back at the beginning, for you are always travelling onwards in your journey; it is just in need of a reroute.
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End Myths and facts from The Equality and Human Rights Commission website:
Myth: Violence against women (VAW) is rare Fact: VAW is much more common than people think.
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Around half of women in England and Wales experience domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking in their lifetime and many experience some form of sexual harassment. Due to shame, fear and underreporting, for many forms of violence there are no accurate figures. The Forced Marriage Unit deals with about 300 cases each year - most victims are women and it is estimated that around 66,000 women in the UK have undergone female genital mutilation. In total around 3 million women experience an incident of violence each year. Many more have been a victim in the past. The perpetrators are, in the vast majority of cases, male, and known to their female victims. They are often family members, current and ex partners, friends and colleagues. Myth: VAW is just the same as violence against men Fact: Many men experience violence too, mostly from other men. However, the prevalence, impact, and consequence of violence against men is very different than VAW. It tends to be one off incidents, rather than, as VAW is, a recurrent pattern of behaviour which is both a cause and a consequence of inequality. The violence that women experience is most commonly committed by known men – partners, family members, friends, work colleagues. In addition, sexual harassment in public is widespread and contributes to women’s fear of crime and feeling safe in public spaces at night. Myth: the Gender Equality Duty (GRD) outlaws single-sex services Fact: Single-sex services are lawful where there is a clear need to preserve decency or privacy, such as a women's refuge. The duty does not mean that single sex services should be cut, or have funding withdrawn, or that any new services should not be funded. Neither does it mean that services should necessarily be provided on the same scale for both men and women. For example, because women make up the majority of victims of domestic violence and rape it will not be appropriate for a local council to fund or provide refuge services on an equal basis for men and for women.
violence against women Rape and sexual assault support services in Surrey and the south east
AAAC Counselling Hastings & Rother Primary Care NHS Trust, St Leonards-on-Sea, TN38 0TA T. 01424 728530 Short-term counselling for people (18+) who were abused as children, or who have been victims of trauma or violence, and for family members affected by trauma. Written referrals from a health professional, eg. your GP. Serves the areas of Hastings, Rother, St Leonards and Bexhill. ANDOVER RAPE CRISIS HELPLINE P.O. Box 1608, Andover, SP10 Helpline: 01264 336222 Free telephone and face-to-face counselling for women and men. The helpline is open Wed evenings: 7-9pm - the answer-phone is monitored daily and all messages responded to. BASINGSTOKE RAPE & SEXUAL ABUSE CRISIS CENTRE The Orchard, White Hart Lane, Basingstoke, RG21 4AF Helpline: 01256 423890 T. 01256 423810 Provides information, counselling and support to anyone over the age of 16 who has suffered any sort of sexual abuse or assault, however long ago it took place. We will also support partners and relatives. Mon-Fri 9.30am-3.30pm. The crisis helpline is open: Tues, Wed & Thurs 7-9.30pm. CIS'ters (Childhood Incest Survivors) P.O. Box 119, Eastleigh, SO50 9ZF Helpline: 023 8033 8080 T. 023 8033 8080 CIS'ters, set up in 1995, is an emotional support service for adult women who were sexually abused, as girls, by a member of their immediate or extended family. The service offers a national helpline, newsletter and workshops. In addition we also provide training for workers in other agencies, including statutory sector. We signpost male survivors to other agencies. Helpline: Sat 10am12noon), answer machine at other times EAST KENT RAPE LINE P.O. Box 353, Canterbury, CT1 3GF Helpline: 0800 458 2818 T. 01227 451753 for information
Offers counselling (face-to-face), telephone support and information for women survivors of rape and childhood sexual abuse. Helpline: Mon-Fri 6.30-9.30pm.
is staffed by women Mon 11.30am-1.30pm; Tues & Thurs 7-9.30pm. Men's line staffed by men & women Mon 11.30am-1.30pm & Thurs 7-9.30pm. Except Bank Holidays.
EASTBOURNE SURVIVORS Bourne Unit, 1A Upper Avenue, Eastbourne, BN21 3XA T. 01323 747212 Facilitated support group for men and women who are adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (they're also welcome to bring their partners). The group is held the first Tuesday of every month, from 7.30-10pm.
RASASC (Rape And Sexual Abuse Support Centre) Guildford Helpline (for women and men) staffed by trained female volunteers; 01483-546400 Voluntary UK charitable organisation providing a range of confidential and caring services, including counselling, self-help groups and support, to anyone (male or female) whose life has been affected by sexual abuse or rape, whether recently or in the past. RASASC operates in Surrey. Helpline 7.30pm-9.30pm, Sunday to Friday (Closed on Saturdays and Public Holidays)
FAMILY MATTERS 13 Wrotham Road, Gravesend, DA11 0PA Helpline: 01474 537392 T. 01474 536661 Gravesend based charity offering therapy and a helpline to survivors of childhood sexual abuse, rape or other sexual assault, of any age or gender. Service covers S.E. London boroughs of Bexley, Lewisham, Greenwich, Bromley, and all boroughs Mid & NW Kent to Ashford. Service also available for non-abusing family members. The helpline is open most office opening times. JIG-SAW Grafton House, 5 Grafton Street, Sandown, PO36 8JJ Helpline: 01983 400123 An independent charity offering one-to-one counselling for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. If no-one answers, leave a message and someone will call you back. LIFE CENTRE P.O. Box 58, Chichester, PO19 8UD Helpline: 01243 779196 T. 01243 786349 Telephone & face-to-face counselling for survivors of rape, sexual abuse, their supporters, and couples. Clients are asked to make a donation towards the cost of their face-to-face counselling. The helpline is open: Sun, Mon & Thurs 7.30-10pm. MANKIND P.O. Box 124, Newhaven, BN9 9TQ T. 01273 510447 Confidential support and resource service for men, 18yrs+, who have been sexually abused, sexually assaulted and/or raped. Offer one-to-one counselling; support for partners and families of survivors. Open: Mon-Fri; answer-phone if no-one is available to take your call. PORTSMOUTH AREA RAPE CRISIS SERVICE (PARCS) P.O Box 3, Portsmouth, PO2 8RX Helpline: 02392 669511/6 T. 023 9266 9513 Free, confidential support service for young people aged 11-25yrs, offering counselling, information & befriending to young people needing help with any issue (relationships, stress, school/work, homelessness, abuse, depression, etc.). Phone for an appointment for one-to-one counselling, or drop in during opening hours: MonWed 3-9pm; Thurs & Fri 1-3pm. RAPE AND SEXUAL ABUSE COUNSELLING (Mid-Hampshire) Winchester Helpline: 01962 848024 Men: 01962 848027 Helplines & counselling for men & women concerned about childhood sexual abuse, rape or any unwanted sexual encounter. Individual counselling by appointment. The women's line, 848024,
RASASC (Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre) P.O. Box 383, Croydon, CR9 2AW Helpline: 08451 221 331 Or: 0208 683 3300 Free, confidential helpline offering information & support to survivors of rape/sexual abuse, their family, friends & partners from anywhere in the UK. Helpline is open: Mon-Fri 12noon-2.30pm & 7-9.30pm; Sat, Sun & Bank Holidays 2.30-5pm. Face-to-face counselling for clients in South/S-E London; group for female survivors; advocacy support for victims of rape going through court. Training for professionals. Counselling: Mon-Fri 9am-7pm. RENTON CLINIC SARC Darent Valley Hospital, Dartford, DA2 8DA T. 01322 428740 (self referrals) Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) where specially trained, experienced professionals give medical help and advice, counselling and practical & emotional support. An assault does not have to be reported to the police to get help and SARC can help people decide what to do next. Mon-Thurs 9am-5pm & Fri 9am-3pm. SOUTHAMPTON RAPE CRISIS & SEXUAL ABUSE COUNSELLING SERVICE P.O. Box 1401, Southampton, SO18 9AD Helpline: 023 8063 6313 Helpline & free face-to-face counselling for clients, male & female, aged 12+, who have experienced rape, child sexual abuse or sexual violation, who live within south west Hampshire - please enquire if unsure. Telephone advice & support for parents & partners. Helpline open Tues 10am-1pm; Thurs 1-4pm; Sun & Mon 7-10pm. Also run The Star Project, an educational outreach project. SURVIVORS NETWORK C.M.H.C., 79 Buckingham Road, Brighton, BN1 3RJ Helpline: 01273 720110 Primarily for women (16+yrs). Helpline: Wed & Fri 7-9pm. Male partners can call for information only. Drop-in 1st, 3rd & 4th Thursday of every month 7-9pm women only. Contact the office for details. Also available, a youth project for women 16-25 and an email support service. TREETOPS CENTRE SARC Northern Road, Cosham, Portsmouth, PO6 3EP T. 02392 210352 For anyone in Hampshire or the Isle of Wight aged 16 or over who has been raped or sexually assaulted. Services are available to women & men. Support & services offered whether or not police are involved.
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≤pring
Serendipity
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Louisa has the knowledge…
We all know that true beauty is much more than skin deep, but a lot can be said about feeling good and reflecting confidence. When we look our best, we feel our best, and the new season is the perfect time to give ourselves a ‘Spring Clean’.
Fashion, 22
despite the economic turndown, is all about vibrant, optimistic colour. Look in charity shops and low cost high street retailers for items to inject a dose of style into your wardrobe. You could even organise a Swap Party with friends and nab their bright clothes for free! Mix bold items with neutral pieces for a more elegant look. Important accessories this Spring are stacked wooden bangles and a statement necklace; think tribal with these and enjoy adorning yourself.
Make-up
this season is very clean and natural, so use it to achieve a fresh faced appearance. Clear out any old, germ-ridden and harmful products you may have lurking in a drawer. Think about booking a free consultation at your local department store so they can show you what makeup works for you. New make-up doesn’t have to be expensive; for instance, Collection 2000 is a very reasonably priced range that can be found in Boots, Superdrug and most chemists.
Hair style;
the bob is set to be a popular cut in 2009, though perhaps a little drastic for those with long hair. Whatever length or style your hair, a trim can work wonders to freshen up your look. One way round the cost of a new haircut is to put yourself forward as a model for trainee hairdressers. This option is always a lot cheaper, and in some places it is even free, so enquire at your local hair salon for any offers. By trying these three ideas, you can create a new look without bursting your purse-strings. Shoestring style; just what you need to put Spring in your step.
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If we were to try and list everything in the alphabet to do with the mind and mental health, we’d be here some time, so here’s the pick of N-P.
of mind matters
o
p
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD)
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
NPDis a mental disorder in which people have an inflated sense of their own importance and a deep need for admiration. They believe that they're superior to others and have little regard for other people's feelings. But behind this mask of ultra-confidence lies a fragile self-esteem, vulnerable to the slightest criticism. It's not known what causes narcissistic personality disorder. As with other mental disorders, the cause is likely to be complex. Some evidence links it to a dysfunctional childhood, such as excessive pampering, extremely high expectations, abuse or neglect. Other evidence points to the connection between the brain and behaviour and thinking. Narcissistic personality disorder treatment is centered around psychotherapy.
OCD can take many forms, but, in general, sufferers experience repetitive, intrusive and unwelcome thoughts, images, impulses and doubts which they find hard to ignore. These thoughts form the obsessive part of ‘ObsessiveCompulsive’ and they usually (but not always) cause the person to perform repetitive compulsions in a vain attempt to relieve themselves of the obsessions and neutralize the fear. What causes OCD is not fully understood. There is general agreement that it can be biological, an imbalance in the chemistry of the brain, or that it can be passed down through generations. A lack of serotonin has been linked with OCD and pregnancy might trigger it. Experience shows us however that OCD can manifest in victims of trauma such as childhood sexual abuse. Anxiety is at the heart of OCD and the rituals are usually created and performed to keep a lid on something unpleasant. All too often though the rituals become the problem and the underlying cause may go untreated. There is a website for sufferers – www.ocduk.org
PTSD can be the result of a oneoff traumatizing incident such as a car accident (either experienced or witnessed) or having experienced abuse and violence as a child or adult. The former can often ease in time and with the right support but the latter is the long-haul. Because of complications like flash-backs, it is very hard for people who have experienced abuse to be released from the suffering of PTSD. Lives have been undermined at least, destroyed at most, when something happens that we know or suspect is unfair, wrong and that denies us safety and security. The ‘groomed’ child – usually by a ‘trusted’ member of the family – will be forever haunted by the knowledge that they were deceived. And of course there will always be a part of them, no matter their intelligence or reason, that will think it was all their fault. Psychotherapy, medicine and self-help are all part of the treatment for PTSD. Complex PTSD – more prevalent in people who have experienced abuse and violence as a child or adult – requires long term support. For more information visit www.ptdsuk.co.uk
Neuroscience Neuroscience has become increasingly linked with psychiatry and much research is undertaken to see what the connections are with mental illness. It has been established that certain genes can put an individual at greater risk of bipolar disorder. These genes play a key role in the way the nerve cells in our brains control their activity and ‘talk to each other’. Another area is how childbirth may trigger mood disorders more in some people. The outcome of this extensive research could mean significant leaps forward for clinical diagnosis and treatment. (For more information, visit www.neuroscience.bham.ac.uk/research)
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