Those of us who support people with mental health conditions, addiction, and trauma sometimes miss the mark in our attempts to help them. It is not something we do intentionally when we come to the aid of a person because our intentions are genuine.
When I was Director of Human Services one of my staff was extremely frustrated by the lack of follow-through of a consumer they were serving. The consumer was a no-show for therapy appointments, they also did not attend appointments with our staff member and it was hit-and-miss when it came to attending support groups.
When I spoke to the member of our staff about this situation I said, “Have you asked the consumer what they need to help support their Recovery?”
Their response was, “No”.
I suggested the staff member meet with the consumer and find out what they need. A few days later I saw the staff member in the hallway and they had a big grin on their face. They told me the consumer needed a place to live. A place was located to fit the needs of the consumer. Miraculously the consumer began attending therapy appointments, keeping appointments with the staff member, and attending 2 support groups per week.
When we support people with mental health conditions, addiction, and trauma we must meet them where they are and not where we think they should be. When I am supporting people with these conditions I have to constantly remind myself of this fact.
How do you support people with mental health conditions, addiction, and trauma?”
How do you take care of yourself while supporting a person with mental health conditions, addiction, and trauma?
Peace
Larry
email: ljw@superhumanbeing.net
website: https://superhumanbeing.net/