Since 1998 the Project’s principal other scheme has been Helping Older People (HOP) which targets the over 55s & is self-funding. This programme was set up when it became clear that there were particular problems concerning older people & prescribed psychotropic drugs, especially in withdrawal, consequently we sought additional funding in order to make a greater impact on this problem. The first programme was jointly funded by Lloyds TSB Foundation & Help the Aged. Subsequent programmes (each of 3 years’ duration) have been funded by a range of charitable trusts. Each 3 year programme has seen a continuing rise in the numbers of older people who we have been able to help. Since 2006 additional funds have been raised in order to increase the number of hours specifically given to our HOP programme.
The Problems with Prescribed Psychotropic Medication The minor tranquillisers & sleeping tablets (benzodiazepines) such as diazepam, lorazepam, nitrazepam & temazepam are now recognised as highly addictive and should only be prescribed for a maximum of 2-4 weeks. The HOP Project is often helping those who have been taking them for 20-30 years. Use of these drugs cause depression, confusion, agoraphobia, panic attacks & social isolation which can lead to a loss of independence & premature entry into elderly people’s homes. Many clients are also taking antidepressants such as doxepin, dothiepin, amitriptyline (tricyclics) or prozac, seroxat, cipramil (SSRI’s) or venlafaxine which can also cause unpleasant side effects & be difficult to withdraw from. Our HOP programme helps clients to cope with withdrawal & regain good mental health, wellbeing & their independence.
Local Services we Offer We help clients to understand more about the problems caused by psychotropic medication and where appropriate make a safe withdrawal from it. All doctors concerned are informed in writing when a patient wishes to become a client of the Project. Many of our clients are referred by their doctors. We offer the following services free to our clients
Telephone helpline (individual counselling)
Weekly groups
Drop Ins
Crisis counselling
We have re-opened our face-to-face services within Bristol & are in the process of contacting existing clients about the additional services we can provide. Please call our helpline for further details and to arrange a face-to-face.
