Brighton and Hove’s mental health chief returns to work after treatment for depression

The chief executive of the mental health trust for Brighton and Hove has returned to work after receiving treatment for depression.

Lisa Rodrigues, who runs the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, shared the news in a personal message to staff yesterday (Wednesday 15 January).

She wrote: “In a job like mine, it’s hard to be low profile.

“You may have noticed the absence of my weekly messages for a while.

“You may also have heard that I’ve been off with clinical depression.

“I wanted to let you know that I came back to work last week. I’m working reduced hours during January.

“Sue Morris is continuing as acting chief executive, for which I am deeply grateful.

“Although I’ve had depression before, this is my first period of time off with it for many years.

“I didn’t see it coming although others did. It has been worse than I can possibly describe here and I’m still on the road to recovery.

“But there are positive aspects. I’ve had outstanding treatment and support. And I’ve been reminded of some important truths, including that depression is as much a physical as a mental illness. And how skilful, compassionate and hard working are the professionals who provide mental health services.

“There is still a lot of stigma about mental illness.

“If you see me, or anyone else you know who experiences it, please say hi and ask us how we are doing. It truly helps.”

Four months ago Ms Rodrigues announced that she would be stepping down as chief executive next summer after eight years in the post.