Angela’s Story: “Give it time and you’ll get there.”

Angela has been sharing her story of recovery in the hope to inspire others who may be struggling with their own mental health.

Three years ago she was admitted to one of St Andrew’s brain injury wards, and was cared for on the ward up until her discharge just before Christmas.

She faced both physical and psychological challenges, but is encouraging others to keep going and “give it time” if they too are struggling during the pandemic.

 “When I came here, I was what I would say a 'wild cat.' I used to get very angry, not with what other people did, but with myself.” Angela recalls.

“I used to shout and perhaps scream, and bang things on the ground, because I couldn't cope with what was happening to me.”

Angela received intense therapy from the multi-disciplinary team at St Andrew’s neuro division, and credits her recovery to the work put in by the nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists.

“I am who I am now because of St Andrew's. The staff and doctors here have helped me so much. They helped me become what I am today. I've recovered well and I'm ready to go home, so I'm going home.”

Angela is now continuing her recovery journey back in her home town close to her husband.

She has one piece of advice for anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation battling with their mental health:

“Give it time, just give it a bit of time. It may take a couple of years, like it took me.  Give it time and you'll get there.”