Citizen Participation and Public Petitions Committee
Patricia Hewitt submission of 20 June 2021
PE1871/A - Full review of mental health services
It has been my experience over the years dealing with Mental Health Services in Scotland both CAMHS and Adult Services that they are not fit for purpose. I have had very few positive experiences. I believe that CAMHS has caused Mental Health issues due to the lack of recognition of Autism and namely Pathological Demand Avoidance.
A family member has Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and will spend their life on benefits. Another family member and myself fit the diagnostic criteria (DSM) for PTSD after our poor experience. CAMHS didn’t want to know when someone I was supporting went into crisis, so the only option was to call the Police. I believe that too many people are rejected and are denied vital support.
I strongly suggest that a separate diagnostic system is set up with multi-disciplinary teams outwith CAMHS. Autism is not a Mental Health issue. Mental Health needs to be at the top of the list not independence. Too little too late. Political spin doesn’t work for my family.