Current practice and pathways for people with a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder

A service user perspectiveJuly 2013

To emphasise some of the key challenges in developing effective pathways

To illustrate with service user experiences To consider potential solutions To learn from those who’ve been through it To marvel at their resilience, inventiveness and

hope

Thanks to:-• All who have accessed our services• Lizzie, Valerie, Ruth and Annette• Sandra George• Jayne Eaton, Sue Robinson and the Bipolar

Disorder Team here at BSMHFT• Spectrum colleagues – for furthering research

into helpful resources

Key messages from Lizzie’s story

• Early signs and missed opportunities• Asking for help….and not getting it• Survival and coping• Diagnosis• Treatments and recovery

Lizzie’s story

• GP’s – more awareness and access to resources

• Access to bespoke services• Better knowledge within specialist mental

health care• Enable service users to effect change• Improve awareness of early signs within

schools and primary care