Sam Starkey recalls how she was turned away from hospital while suffering a psychotic episode and why, as an estimated 51,000 people seek urgent each year with for mental health issue, she wants to fight the stigma associated with such conditions
Sam Starkey. Photo: Steve Humphreys
Nearly three years ago, I met up with my best friends for a coffee. We ended up in A&E for 28 hours.
My descent into psychosis started subtly, but quickly unfurled into making me someone no one recognised. It was a hot summer day, and I left my flat that morning feeling uneasy, but determined to have a typical Sunday, meeting up with my best friends.