Dr Elena Ghetau 2023-07-24 Person 5 5 0

Did a review before but wanted to add a wee update as to how things have been going, as wouldn't be where I am now without all of Dr Ghetau's help. 3 years on since being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, ADHD and autism, things continue to be stable and my mental health has been much more manageable with the aripiprazole and methylphenidate. Touch wood I have not had any significant issues and continue to do well despite all of the other factors I have to contend with (complex health issues). My physical health is still deteriorating, however I am much more able to deal with this as I'm no longer having to fight my mind constantly as well. After over 3 years single following an abusive relationship, I have now been in a relationship for 2 and a half years. We are living together and it is probably the healthiest relationship I have been in - he is extremely supportive of all of my health issues, communicates openly and I couldn't ask for more in terms of the support and compassion he offers me. Since I got ill health retirement, I have been doing voluntary work with a local charity, as part of a "lived experience team". We are called on to provide service user input into a range of projects relating to mental health and improving services for those struggling. It is interesting and varied work, and I certainly have plenty to say about the state of mental health care in the local NHS! It is rewarding knowing my experiences can be presented to people who can facilitate change so that others don't need to deal with what I went through. Likewise I use examples from Dr Ghetau's care to show how much of a difference someone taking the time to listen and understand makes, and how drastically lives can be improved with the proper input and support. Through the same organisation I have also been paired with a peer support buddy, who I am currently helping navigate getting an ADHD diagnosis through the private sector. Finally I got word that after 3 years self directed study, I have successfully completed my degree through the Open University. I graduate in September with a BA honours degree combining what I did with the nursing course (was forced to leave 6 months pre qualification as I was struggling with the onset of the bipolar) and the psychology/counselling modules I completed. I don't have any plans to use it formally as my health would not allow a return to regular work, but it is another degree and set of skills under my belt. I would never have been in a position to get through the course or be where I am now without having gotten my mental health to a more manageable position first. So once again I'd like to thank Dr Ghetau for all that she did for me, she literally changed my life for the better and for that I will always be grateful. Had someone told me at the start of 2020 I'd be where I am now I wouldn't have believed them, as at that point I couldn't see a future. Highly recommend Dr Ghetau as the care provided was night and day from the absolute shambles that was NHS mental health care. She is compassionate and genuinely cares, takes the time to listen, is non-judgemental and approachable - a lot of Dr's could learn something from her approach to patient care. So to cut a long story short, thank you!