"Great staff, but single-sex wards would also help"

I was admitted onto Dunnottar Ward for 10 days after being diagnosed with 'word association", a form of psychosis which was brought on from being in a toxic relationship.

The doctor prescribed me diazepam & aripiprazole to help with the anxiety, relax me & for the thoughts I was having. I shared a dorm with 4 other females who I got along with. The nurses were all great, especially nurses Debbie, Alan, Mirriam , Jenith, Chloe, Scott & activity nurse Emma.

I joined in with activities on the ward: mini ten pin bowling, baking, physio exercise class, pamper day & a session on feelings / daily mood with Julie from psychology dept. The ward referred me to gym sessions with Steve which I enjoyed.

Food on the ward was really good, great choice. Compliments to the kitchen staff!

My time on Dunnottar was made easier by the other patients who I befriended & the support workers. They're the ones who really got to know us & deserve a mention & a pay rise! Nurses were busy with meds & paperwork.

Big shout out to support workers Kim, Caroline, Laura, & students Wilson, Kerys & Jill... they went that extra mile. 

The only things I'd say to improve the hospital would be more group therapy sessions, doctor visits , and male & female wards where possible. There were a few woman attacked by a male, leaving us shook up. A number of patients are there after being in toxic relationships and are concerned being on a ward with patients of the opposite sex.

There were times staff would be needing to speak to a patient and couldn't find them. I suggested having a sign in / out book which will let staff know if you're in the building, on hospital grounds i.e. walk or town etc. This would also help for if there's an emergency e.g. fire.

Communication was often a wee bit poor. For example, I was off the ward in meetings twice with two nurses, but other staff weren't aware & couldn't find me. It would also be great if staff read notes first before asking to talk to you, as the reason is already noted often more than once.

All in all my time on Dunnottar was good & I was well cared for.