The impact of small interactions are amplified when you’re down which means that small acts of kindness can make your day or a dismissive attitude , on the other hand, can lock you into a downward spiral. 

When you go to the doctors and you’re feeling down, vulnerable, and your self-esteem has taken a battering as it does when you’ve experienced homelessness, the smallest of interactions can have a massive impact on your state of mind and outlook. This cuts both ways. For example, in the surgery I visit some receptionists are always warm and friendly and it makes me feel like I’m worth the treatment II am asking for.  Other receptionists though, can be rude and dismissive, which has had the effect of making me feel defensive and angry. Over time I have accepted this reality to the point that I feel like I don’t really deserve the kind of respect I see commonly given to other patients in the surgery. 

For me, the most important thing about my doctor is that she’s friendly and seems to generally care. She is relaxed and interested in what I’m saying, and it makes me feel like I’m worth something. I always go away from appointments with her feeling valued and cared for. I’ve got a spring in my step and a smile on my face. With some of the other doctors in that surgery I feel judged, clumsy and guilty for not looking after myself properly.