Priory Hospital Bristol’s addictions support
A former patient’s letter of gratitude
I thought that I would write to say a huge ‘thank you’ to all the staff for the care I was given while on a 28 day stay to address my alcoholism.
On arrival, I felt warmly welcomed by the ward staff and they genuinely reduced the natural anxiety I was feeling. They helped me to settle in very well and nothing was too much trouble. After a couple of days, I felt completely at home.
With regard to the therapy sessions, I found them very interesting and helpful, though mentally tiring! The therapists, without exception, were very skilled and their ability to manage a number of differing personalities, and different backgrounds/stories, was good to see – they kept the sessions flowing and were well able to guide us back to the topic. I felt that I needed a robust level of therapy with challenge – I was given what I felt I needed.
Every session helped me understand so much more about myself and what got me to the point of realising that I needed help. The delivery was right for me and I found it easy to understand and apply to my situation. When we de-briefed back on the ward, it was obvious that the others felt the same.
On a general note, every member of staff I came across were friendly and professional, from reception, chefs/servers and maintenance crew – they all played a part in making me/us feel welcome and at home.
I am now home and have been doing very well. I am not being complacent in any way about the future and fully realise that I have to take it day-by-day for the rest of my life.
I am so much happier; I am sleeping and eating very well and have started yoga, art classes and have picked up reading again. My self-care has risen and I now spend time every morning getting myself looking as good as possible at the start of every day. Energy levels are fantastic and I am sorting through ‘stuff’ in my home that has been neglected over the last few years. It gives me genuine happiness to see the organisation I have achieved. I feel back in control!
I know, beyond doubt, that coming to the Priory has been the best decision I have made. My self-esteem and self-worth have increased, as has my confidence. The experience has totally changed my life and how I feel about it. I’m enjoying my days now, apart from the fact that they are too short.
Thank you for your help and support – very much appreciated!
With warm regards….