Service User Guide - Introduction
The section has been produced to help you acquire a realistic picture of what you can expect, as well as what we expect from you.
The staff will try to understand your problems when using our, or other, mental health services including general advice on dealing with your problems and how to gain the most benefit from what we offer.
We need to communicate...
Just as in life generally, in mental health, the more positive a relationship with someone, the better we tend to communicate. If you work on forming a positive relationship with the staff, it will help them to meet your mental health needs best. After all, that is why we are here!
...and to keep communicating
As experienced clinicians, we may be able to recognise when you are having problems - but this is not always the case. Communication, then, is essential. Staff cannot rely only on instinct or make second guesses. They also rely on you sometimes.
Regency Lodge staff always try to meet your needs. However, it is not always possible.
We realise how difficult it is sometimes to have realistic expectations. Experience has shown some factors that help:
- Do try to be clear about your needs
- Do try to be polite and respect all our staff and other patients
- Do ask for a quiet room if you want to talk over your concerns privately
- Do ask for an interpreter if you have difficulty speaking or understanding English
- Do not shout to get attention
- Do not act in an aggressive or violent way
Remember, we all live, work and make friends at Regency Lodge!