Looking ahead to fatherhood after being discharged from Tiptree, our specialist recovery ward

A 29-year-old man is looking forward to being discharged from 'Good' CQC rated St Andrew’s Healthcare in Essex, so he can be a dad to his baby twins.

Tim* has been at the hospital for nearly a year after his mental health significantly declined due to a series of traumatic incidents he experienced.

The patient, who has been receiving treatment on Tiptree ward, said: “When I first came here, I can’t remember much. Everything was overwhelming. My mental health had really deteriorated.”

Tim had previously been diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and ADHD, but needed extra support once it became clear he was struggling.

He said: “I wasn’t coping at all. I was struggling with a lot in my personal life too. My great nan passed away, and there were ongoing issues in my family. It all built up.

“I wasn’t sleeping properly, sometimes I’d be awake for days. I was taking medication but also drinking, and that made things worse. Everything spiralled.”

Although Tim cannot remember his behaviour when he was admitted, he said people have since told him he was “manic and agitated”.

He added: “I was breaking doors, acting aggressively, and hurting people. That’s not who I want to be, but at the time I had completely lost control. Looking back, I can see how unwell I really was.”

But nearly 12 months on, things have gradually changed for him.

Tim said: “I’ve had psychology sessions and education, which have really helped me understand myself better. I’ve also achieved Level 2 qualifications in Maths and English, which I’m proud of as it’s something positive I can take forward.”

Referring to his Responsible Clinician, he said: “Dr Patel honestly saved my life. She’s an amazing doctor. She took the time to understand me and helped get my medication right, and that has made such a big difference. I’m really grateful for her support.

“There are staff here who genuinely care, and that has helped me feel more supported on my journey.

“I’ve learned strategies to manage my anger and my behaviour. I used to be easily led and now I’ve learned how to stop, think and say no. That’s a big step forward for me.

“My motivation now is my family. I’ve been with my partner for two years, and we have twins together. They’re nearly 10 months old. They’re my world. Everything I’m doing now is about getting better so I can be there for them and be the dad they deserve.

“I’m also working towards my future. I’d like to spend time with my family, hopefully move back into the community, and I’ve even got a qualification in firefighting, something I’d like to build on.

“Recovery hasn’t been easy. There have been frustrations along the way, and not every experience has been positive. But I’ve learned that speaking up, focusing on what I can control, and accepting support are key.

“I’m not the same person I was when I came in. I’m calmer. I’m more aware. I’ve got goals again. Most importantly, I’m learning how to take control of my life and move forward.”

*Name change for anonymity.