Farza
Farza would like input from a Community Psychiatric Nurse, which is now denied. Medication comes with side effects which are not helpful. Keeping to a routine and visiting the gym 3 times a week are the strategies which help with condition management.
Farza’s mental health problems first became evident at school as a result of bullying. Without support from parents, Farza pursued medical investigations alone and it took six years to achieve a diagnosis. Farza has been diagnosed with a range of mental health conditions including Tourette’s Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Asperger’s and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
The most prominent feature of Farza’s account is the way that the symptoms of the conditions have led to social isolation. Following withdrawal of a Community Psychiatric Nurse, Farza seemingly copes alone by trying to stick to a routine and visiting the gym three times a week. Some of the most useful help has come from patient support groups and drop in’ services. For example, one of the diagnoses was initially identified by another patient rather than a health professional. Medication seems to bring other problems. Farza’s parents do not understand the medical conditions and are embarrassed by Farza’s behavior in social situations.