Two people from an early psychosis intervention team are coming to see me tomorrow, and I'm really nervous.
I just need some advice really...and maybe support? I don't know what to tell them, do I say the whole truth, or refrain from revealing some of it? Do I have to have my mother in the room? I don't want to shock/upset her..she doesn't really know anything about my world. I'm scared.

[turquoisesea]

that does sound scary - I would be terrified. but the good news is that it sounds like these people are there to help you? So at least the GOAL is a positive one

As for how much to say, I don't really know much about what a team like this is. so I'm not sure. Are they professionals? If so they've probably heard a lot of what you're going through before and might have a new perspective and ways to help you.

As for your mother, maybe keep her there if you can, but it it'll stop you from sharing and being able to talk no? If possible to have her there, she could be really helpful in all this. it really depends on what YOU feel like, and what you think is best. Maybe, if you look deep down you'll know the answer And if you change your mind you can always reach out again right?

good luck!

[splitimage]

I would be really scared too. But remember they are there to help you so they have your best interests at heart. If you can I would be as honest with them, about as much as possible - that way they'll have the best information to come up with a treatment plan.

As for your Mom. I know you don't want to worry her. but I'm sure she wants to support you. Maybe you could ask to meet with the team alone, to tell them the really scary stuff, and then ask your Mom to come in when they start talking treatment options - it's usually good to have someone along for that part of the conversation anyways, as I find I don't always remember what I've been told.

Good luck. and remember to tell us how it goes.

splitimage

[shezbut]

(((WelcomeToTheJungle)))

I can understand where you're coming from ~ it does sound scary. The team's goal is to help you though. Remind yourself of that. I'd seriously recommend being completely honest with them, to help yourself feel better.

Regarding your mom...that decision is up to you. It may help you feel more comfortable to have some social support as you talk with the team about where you are emotionally. Or, you may want to talk with them about the heavy stuff alone after your mom helps you feel safe and supported. Another idea is to have your mom be present throughout. It's all up to you.

The team may recommend that your mom stay or go, but the decision is still yours to make. Very best wishes to you, you'll be in my thoughts!

[Umbral_Seraph]

They will be there to help you, and for them to help you the best they can you need to tell them about everything. I understand how having your mom there might keep you from telling them everything. I'm much the same way; I'm not able to speak everthing I need to with family there. But your mom really should be there when treatment options are discussed. Hope you get what you need and start feeling better!

[gma45]

(((((((Welcometothejungle))))))))) I just wanted to wish you the best today, I am sure you will be fine. They are there to help you. Please tell the truth, you may not have to go into details about everything with your mom there, just be honest so they can help you. I will keep you in my prayers today.

[roads]

Hey there, WTTJ. Have they come yet? That is a scary situation, but finally you might have an opportunity for some real help!

If these are professionals from a publically-funded group, you ought to be safe in telling them everything. They would be there to evaluate & to see what sort of help would be appropriate, so answering questions honestly & fully seems best IMO.

Considering your age, I suspect your mother will need to be present. It may not be your choice. I don't think that's bad, is it? I understand you don't want to worry her, but deep down--don't you think she'd want to know what's up with you? Don't you think she'll want to be part of a support system when one finally starts to build up around you?

I'm excited at the idea that you're not going to be so alone in all this much longer if this works out. You're much on my mind today.

Roadie

Thanks everyone
They came this morning at ten, and it went very well. My mother stayed in the room with us, which was a good idea because now she understands a little better. The people were great, actually. I was expecting them to be all intimidating and interrogating me, but they were very nice and understanding. (We actually exchanged numbers so I can text them if it gets bad).
I answered questions first, and I scored a 38 on the psychosis one. Over 20 means you should get help. They were really understanding and listened to me and we just talked about my symptoms. They said that they don't believe they should label young people (unless of course you are hospitalised or it is really bad) and said that they use therapy and talking before prescribing medication.
They're going to ring next week so I can go and have group sessions, a therapist and do these workshop things (like music, art etc) of my choice. I'm really happy about this, and I can't wait to meet other kids like me.

Thanks again everyone I really appreciate all of your support

Oh and they are professionals. They work along side CAMHS in the NHS.

[turquoisesea]

oh this is wonderful!!! It sounds like they're pushing you in all the right directions (imo). I do believe therapy and talking about it before meds and further action is the best way. And it's GREAT that your mother can be with you through this. I'm really hopeful for you - and congrats on getting up the courage to face this meeting =D

Originally Posted by turquoisesea

oh this is wonderful!!! It sounds like they're pushing you in all the right directions (imo). I do believe therapy and talking about it before meds and further action is the best way. And it's GREAT that your mother can be with you through this. I'm really hopeful for you - and congrats on getting up the courage to face this meeting =D

Thank you!

[roads]

What a great outcome! I'm so pleased for you, WTTJ. I appreciate your sharing all the details with us.

Stay in touch, okay? If you have any second thoughts, let us know.

[shezbut]

I'm very happy to hear that things went so well for you!

[splitimage]

Way to go for being honest with them. And it sounds like a good outcome. I firmly believe in trying therapy before medications.

splitimage

[gma45]

This is wonderful! I am so glad things worked out with your meeting, they sound like they are really there to help you and know what they are doing. I think it is great your mom was there, being a mother myself I am sure she was worried and wants the best for you and would like to understand what you are going through. I know I really enjoyed group therapy, I bet you will too. Thanks for the update.