Mental health assessment

[Jeanne61]

As you probably remember, I have been waiting to hear about when and if my son Glen 16, (ASD) would have an inpatient mental health assessment.

Well yesterday, 3 people came from the Prudhoe Mental Health Hospital in Northumberland to see Glen at home.  One of the people was the consultant psychiatrist.  They are going to ring me next week with their decision as to whether they think that it would be a good idea for Glen to go Northumberland for this assessment but they did indicate yesterday that it is looking likely.

I do have concerns of course, the assessment is for 12 weeks, Glen could be admitted in November possibly, as it is a 5.1/2hr drive from where we live we would not be able to bring Glen home for weekends.  However we would go there when we could to visit him.  I would however want Glen home over Christmas which means we would have to get him back there again which worries me as would he want to go??

I really don't know what to do if they say yes he can go there.  The assessment itself sounds very good: art therapy, sensory therapy, he would have schooling.  They would monitor his medication, see if it needs changing etc.  Please what would you do in my position?  I have asked via email this morning if it would be possible for the assessment to take place after Christmas so that Glen could be there for the 12 weeks then come home afterwards and not come home in the middle of the assessment which he would have to do if he goes in November.

[Jeanne61]

Thanks again for your good wishes Karen.

[KarenDiane]

I agree. It's really hard to let our kids out of our nest for so long. Especially hard when they have special needs. Good Luck.

[Jeanne61]

Thanks Karen, it is but it isn't going to be easy, 12 weeks away from home is a long time but if it can help Glen then the 12 weeks will have been worth it.

[KarenDiane]

I think it sounds like a wonderful opportunity for your son.