Experiencing critical illness is distressing. This stress, no matter what follows, can have deep and lasting effects. Many organisations exist that may help you cope. A number of these organisations are listed below. They are free to use.
ICUsteps
ICUsteps was founded in 2005 by ex-patients, their relatives and ICU staff to support patients and their families through the long road to recovery from critical illness. It is a national support group for people who have been affected by critical illness and has helped many former patients, their relatives and medical staff from organisations around the world. They hold regular meetings at locations across the country. You can find further information on their website.
Patient Advice and Liaison Service
Your local hospital will have Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS). PALS offers advice, and helps patients get listened to when they have complaints about their care.
GP Services
Your GP may be able to refer you for talking therapy. A range of services go under a blanket acronym of IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies). The services available vary depending on where you are in the country. Talk to your GP for details of what is available.
Samaritans
Samaritans is a registered charity aimed at providing support to anyone in emotional distress. Their service is free and available 24/7, for anyone who is struggling to cope and needs someone to listen without judgement or pressure.
Telephone: 116 123
Webchat: webchat.samaritans.org
The Patients Association
The Patients Association runs a national helpline, staffed by trained advisers, providing specialist information, advice and signposting to help people navigate the often complex world of health and social care. The helpline is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 5pm.
Telephone: 020 8423 8999
Email: helpline@patients-association.com
Patient Concern
Patient Concern is an organisation committed to promoting choice and empowerment for all health service users. Patient Concern volunteers will do their best to answer individual patient queries by post. Patient concern cannot deal with queries over specific medical conditions. Please send a stamped addressed envelope with your query to: Patient Concern, PO Box 23732, London SW5 9FY.
Or contact them via email: patientconcern@hotmail.com
Citizens Advice Bureau
Citizens Advice Bureaux provide free, confidential and independent advice on a range of legal, financial and other problems.
Telephone: 03444 111 444.