Directions ensure that all their clients have the options and tools that meet their individual needs so they can be positively supported through the recovery.

Case Study

Y has a long history of mental health challenges and chaotic engagement with services. They have been diagnosed with schizophrenia and often finds day to day life challenging and overwhelming. Y is currently living in a hostel and is getting supported from staff there. He was convicted for interference with a motor vehicle but has no previous convictions prior to this. Y has spoken about a difficult relationship with his mother and there have been periods of emotional stability that they have linked to this.

After completing their initial assessment with Directions, Y highlighted that they would benefit from developing strategies to better manage their feelings and emotional wellbeing. It was also highlighted that Y could not read or write and felt anxious about this, especially around the proposed interventions as, they felt there may be some challenges with completing these.

Y was offered explanations and lots of reassurance when approaching the workbooks. Support was offered into looking at how to complete this in a way that suited Y and their needs. The aim was to ensure Y was comfortable and happy with completing tasks.

As Y had highlighted, they wanted to look at strategies to help with managing their emotions, they took a keen interest in monitoring and recording their mood. Y started to identify patterns and triggers which led to them experiencing negative emotions that would affect their mental health. They could then understand how this might lead to them reoffending and/or self-harm to cope with those feelings. As Y would not be able to effectively use mood diaries another option was given to help recording emotions and thoughts. Directions supplied Y with a dictaphone so that they could record their feelings, wellbeing and progress and monitor these. Using these devices would allow Y to feel that they could ‘off load’ and voice how they were feeling. Y was also advised to set alarms to remind them of upcoming appointments too.

Y is still receiving support from the staff at the hostel, probation officer and Directions. Using the dictaphone is a positive outlet for Y, and they are continuing to use this. They said they are feeling positive about this.

A member of staff who has been working with Y highlighted that working with Y has encouraged them to think creatively and look at other options and tools that can help a client on the journey to recovery. This has been shared with the team to ensure all clients have the options and tools that meet their individual needs.

*Image used is a stock image