MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
to, is the loneliness that this condition leaves its sufferers with, largely in part to a lack of understanding of the condition. Monty recalls, “Despite having very supportive line management, I felt really isolated. The team around me wanted to help but they were getting frustrated because they didn’t know how.” A sentiment echoed by Rich, which is why both feel the need to share their stories. The hope is that by sharing their stories,
Rich and Monty can help spread awareness of FND and the unique problems that the condition presents.
others very difficult, which is something new to me and which leaves me feeling embarrassed and uncomfortable. The mental impact FND has on you is huge - it is soul-destroying. Rich and Monty want to share their experience with the hope that this will raise awareness of FND among the Police and potentially bring any sufferers together. Monty says, “In some way, Rich and I have formed our own informal support
The machinery of a network exists, Occupational Health, the Fed, Oscar Kilo and others, it’s just ensuring that the education is there and that a network is appropriately used, that forces can offer real help and hope. There needs to be clear pathways and signposting and then others like Rich and myself can find the support they need.
Monty’s story echoes the experience of Rich. Monty had been on the force for over 25 years and very happy and established in his career. “At first, I believed that the condition would go away and I would make a full recovery. Some of the symptoms included pain, slurred speech, delayed reactions, clumsiness, headaches, tremors, chronic fatigue and insomnia. I really thought that I could beat the condition. But the symptoms would change day-to-day and the impact on my mental health was devastating. It’s very, very limiting on a daily basis.
“In some way, Rich and I have formed our own informal support network. I can’t play down how much it means to know that somebody else in the force knows what I’m going through. All of a sudden, I don’t feel quite so alone”
network. I can’t play down how much it means to know that somebody else in the force knows what I’m going through. All of a sudden, I don’t feel quite so alone.” And this is key – ending feelings of
“I have tried various medications and treatments and therapies, but nothing has really helped.
“I’m now classed as disabled, but it’s an invisible disability, which presents its own set of problems. I haven’t been able to work for three years; I’m pretty much a recluse now, I actually find interacting with
isolation that are hugely negative for mental health, self-esteem and wellbeing. Having someone to talk to who knows and understands what you are going through is invaluable and through these conversations it is possible to maintain hope. Monty would like there to be a formalised network of support across policing, perhaps coordinated by the Federation.
He says, “Despite there being very little awareness of the condition, it is more prevalent than people expect. It’s by bringing the people that are suffering together that police forces can do good.
It’s frustrating as many of the symptoms that present are similar to PTSD symptoms, or depression and anxiety, and there is a support structure that kicks in for them, but FND and other less well known conditions almost feel forgotten. I think
education is key, a great source of which is Professor Mark Edwards who I advise anyone who wants to learn more should look up.” Rich notes, “Talk with those who care, be honest with yourself and your loved ones despite the embarrassment you think this may cause you. Strive to find ways to adapt, celebrate good days, as long as you’re trying your best no one can ask for more. That, and charities such as FND Hope UK who strive for a world where FND patients can expect to be treated with dignity care and respect. Those medical professionals who have chosen to dedicate their valuable time to champion the need for appropriate treatment and care and research. These are all things that give me hope for the future for myself and other sufferers of FND.”
17 | POLICE | OCTOBER | 2023
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