Posted by Noa on February 20, 2001, at 11:43:39
In reply to Re: FORCIBLY COMMITTED! (To Noa, and everyone else), posted by danf on February 20, 2001, at 9:43:37
Lisa, I don't know what you can do. how awful. But you were a real hero for helping out.
Yes, Dan is right. If she is psychotic, you will not be able to reason with her.
I don't know the laws where you are (England?) like, for example, could they extend her stay if she is still psychotic after the 28 days, etc.
Do you want to set limits on the frequency of her calls? Or on her calling you at all? It sounds difficult.
I believe she has the right to an attorney and the social worker should be the one helping her to obtain one. Usually, hospitals have to post the human rights rules for patients, and this, I would think, would be included. But I believe it is probably best for you to not feel responsible for doing that for her.
You can be supportive, but if you start acting on her requests to obtain a solicitor, or whatever she will ask next, it will be much harder to set limits.
What you might want to do is call that social worker and ask to speak with her confidentially, and ask her some tips on setting limits--how to be supportive but protect yourself from constant telephone calls, demands on your time, etc. Ask her not to use what you say against the woman (ask her to keep it confidential). Ask her if she can keep this confidential--before you speak to her about this stuff. If she says she will not be able to keep it confidential, don't speak to her about it, go to another social worker.
Anyway, that is my inclination. I also think you might want to record in writing the entire incident from start to finish, everything you remember happening, being said, etc., including your boss's initial request for your help, etc. Also, record when she has called you, etc. and what she has said, what you have said, etc. Don't want to make you paranoid, but it is always good to have your own account of things, just in case.
Most importantly: You are a good samaritan for helping. You are under no obligation to continue to be involved. It is important to take care of yourself, which includes not having to take phone calls from this woman all the time.
poster:Noa
thread:54449
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010212/msgs/54480.html