Current practice and pathways for people with a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder A service user perspective July 2013

 To emphasise some of the key challenges in developing effective pathways  To illustrate with service user experiences  To consider potential solutions  To learn from those who’ve been through it  To marvel at their resilience, inventiveness and hope

Thanks to:- All who have accessed our services Lizzie, Valerie, Ruth and Annette Sandra George Jayne Eaton, Sue Robinson and the Bipolar Disorder Team here at BSMHFT Spectrum colleagues – for furthering research into helpful resources

Key messages from Lizzie’s story Early signs and missed opportunities Asking for help….and not getting it Survival and coping Diagnosis Treatments and recovery

Lizzie’s story

GP’s – more awareness and access to resources Access to bespoke services Better knowledge within specialist mental health care Enable service users to effect change Improve awareness of early signs within schools and primary care