Cancelled counselling
Question
About three months ago I was in a car accident. I thought I was coping well but I've started getting tearful a lot lately. I feel really tired but can't sleep and constantly feel on edge.
I've spoken to my GP and although they referred me to a counsellor, two months have past and it turns out they've lost the referral. I really need to talk to someone but can't wait another two months. I've looked for counselling services but they're all really expensive. Is there anywhere else I can go?
Answer
It sounds as though the car accident you were involved in has had a powerful emotional impact on you. It's good to hear that you have spoken to your doctor (GP) about your feelings and you've considered the option of counselling.
It must be very frustrating to find out you may have to wait another couple of months for your counselling to begin. Unfortunately, waiting lists among NHS services are common and talking treatments can be expensive if you access them privately rather than through your GP. But there are other options. Youth Access provides a directory which you can use to search for free, confidential counsellors or therapists in your area. You can also find local young people's services through your local council; it's likely that there will be free, confidential advice and support available in your area.
Sometimes it helps to talk to someone you know. If you feel you could open up to friends and family about how you are feeling, this may enable them to offer you more effective support.
Alternatively, you might like to consider other methods of support such as calling a helpline to talk about how you're feeling. Samaritans offers confidential telephone counselling via its helpline, which you can reach on 08457 90 90 90.
In the meantime, it's really important you look after yourself. Feeling tearful all the time and not being able to sleep will be making you feel more drained. So it's important you try to take time to relax. For some practical techniques you might find the Mind guide to coping with sleep problems helpful.
Updated: 07/06/2011
Question answered by SANE
