Difficulty coping with recent contact with medical “professional”

Hey. I’ve had a pretty awful year with my mental health, struggling with self harm and suicidal ideation, but one of my worst traits are my feelings of worthlessness and low self esteem. There have been 2 instances with health “professionals” which have affected these issues further. The last one was only within the last week and I’m really finding it hard to get over it....

I was admitted to hospital and was seen by the medical consultant the following morning. He proceeded to tell me that I was a drain on the NHS and that if psych can’t do anything to help me then medical staff will then refuse to treat me as my condition would be similar to a terminally ill cancer patient. I already feel like I am wasting their time and that is why I advised I would like to discharge myself as although my bloods were still off, food and plenty fluids was going to be my only treatment from that point, which I pointed out I could do at home, but it was then that he said all this to me (in a room with 3 other patients).

So now I really do feel like a waste of space, like everything I already thought about myself has just been verified. I no longer phone ambulances (I’ve only ever phoned 2, which were life and death situations). I stopped calling as an ambulance technician told me somebody died because of me and the paramedic was busy saving my life. So now I also feel that I can no longer attend A&E when medically I should.

I’m really struggling with this and would appreciate anything you have to offer, and thanks for taking time to read this.

Take care xx

The medical consultant is one person in this world and may not even be "professional" or an expert. He doesn't have the right or power to make a judgement on your worth. You are NOT a waste of space.

I hope this new year turns out better for you!

Please report this encounter, in writing, to administrators at the hospital and write a letter to a newspaper/otherwise describe this interaction to a public. Seriously, this kind of thing goes on all the time and the damage it can do is frightening. This "professional" needs to be called out.

Angie84

The NHS is not fit for purpose with mental health. You are not at fault.

I would report this "professional" for lack of confidentially and for the words and sentiment when he spoke to you.

You are worthy and you deserve treatment. My experience is that it is not available or doesn't exist in my region.

From my own perspective, I now try to manage my own health with attacks from professionals when it becomes essential to seek treatment.

Have you spoken with any charities? Mind? Rethink may be able to help with your complaint.

Sending you hugs

Thank you all for your replies. I have kept the details of what happened so that I can raise a complaint once I feel strong enough, as I hate the thought of it happening to someone else.

I have input fro psychiatry and psychology so I'm also going to speak to them about it (unsure how useful it'll be). I am lucky enough to have a fantastic mental health charity in my local area which runs drop in sessions as well as one to one appointments. This charity has helped my more in the last 2 months than the NHS mental health service has in the past 3 years.