Doctor, patient, and caregiver – all at once

Anette Bakkane

Doctor, patient, and caregiver – all at once 

Anette Bakkane

My name is Anette, and I’m a medical doctor with a PhD in geriatric psychiatry.

The aim of this website is to make life a little easier for you – as a patient, caregiver, or relative – through knowledge, communication, and personal experience.


My Background and Path

I have worked mostly in nursing homes and dementia teams, but eventually chose to specialize in public health medicine.

Just as I transitioned from shared infectious disease duties to a meaningful but demanding full-time role as a patient, I had about a year left of my specialization.

That was a turn I hadn’t planned for – but one that gave me a whole new perspective.


Experience from All Sides of the Healthcare System

Being a patient and service user – along with deep caregiver experience (which is not mine to share in detail) – has taught me more than most things in life.

Although it doesn’t count toward my specialist training, it has shaped me profoundly as both a doctor and researcher.

I dare say I know the healthcare system from the inside out – and from the outside in.

At the bottom of this page, you’ll find links to podcasts, articles, and other contributions I’ve made.


What I’m Passionate About

I didn’t win the health lottery and rely on structuring my days with care. But I still burn for this field – and for communication.

That’s why I share:

  • reflections from life as a doctor and with ADHD/burnout

  • poetry, videos, and creative expression

  • free resources

  • updates on books, courses, and lectures


🎓 On Communication and Professional Responsibility

Everything I share is grounded in professional knowledge – but I make a strong effort to communicate in ways that are clear and relatable.

I believe it’s much harder to explain something simply and clearly than to hide behind technical jargon.

That’s why I spend a lot of time:

  • simplifying without oversimplifying

  • visualizing what’s hard to explain

  • being honest, real, and clear – without polishing too much

The content I create is not meant as individual advice or treatment, but as support, understanding, and inspiration – whether you’re a professional, a patient, or a loved one.

If you’d like to share some of this content or explore a collaboration, feel free to get in touch. You’ll also find copyright and usage information on the contact page.

Want to learn more about ADHD, burnout, or elder care?


Find what’s most relevant to you below.

 

These are illustrated books about life with ADHD.

They are available as e-books in Norwegian (both nynorsk and bokmål) and English, as well as audiobooks in both languages.

The books in the series, along with the English translations, will be released throughout the fall.

 

See launch plan and book info

Elder Care and Dementia

More information and resources will be added here over time. First up is material for those who suspect a loved one may be developing dementia, along with support for next of kin.

 

 

 

Explore resources and support

Crochet and Business – as an Expression of Creativity

I hold a design registration for crocheted textiles featuring the Floral Chains pattern. My logo and business name are both based on this design.

In time, I plan to publish a crochet book here. It will be an ironic and subtly critical take on society, woven through the stitches.

 

Discover patterns from my upcoming book

Stay updated!

 

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