Page 15 - MELD Stimulant service

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8.2 POSITIVE COPING STRATEGIES

At the first complementary therapy session, participants were asked to describe
any coping strategies that had been useful in the past or present. Some
individuals described not being able to cope well with any perceived stress
or threat and this could result in behaviours that included self-isolating and
ignoring concerns from loved one’s. Stimulant drug use would escalate with
rising stress levels.

All individuals expressed a strong desire to learn positive coping strategies to
help them feel less overwhelmed with day to day life issues and gain confidence
to practice positive coping strategies, instead of automatically turning to
stimulant drugs to deal with difficult emotions and situations. Attending
sessions on a regular and consistent basis feedback gained included individuals
becoming more self-aware and feeling a greater sense of wellbeing and sense
of purpose. Feedback also included some people introducing self-care practices
into their life. For some this was the first time. Some benefits included:

Self-care Benefit
Increased water intake Reduction in caffeine i.e. tea, coffee
and energy drinks.
Going home to relax after treatment Continuation of the relaxation process
and priority of self-care.

Downloading meditation apps Guided meditate and support with
sleep and relaxation.
Aromatherapy oils at home These were diluted for use at home
in baths, blended onto skin and on
tissues to use when feeling anxious
and/or to lift mood.
Breathing techniques Helped to reduce anxiety when
feeling overwhelmed and not be so
reactive to people or situations.

8.3 REFERRAL AND SIGNPOSTING TO

OTHER SERVICES
The MELD Senior Peer Support co-ordinator spent time with each individual
before and after each treatment. She also spent time with the parents who
brought individuals to appointments. She was able to provide up to date service
information and engage parents in meaningful conversations whilst they waited
for complementary therapy appointments to finish. They were given information
about the MELD Open Family Support service and supported to discuss any
concerns they had. Some individuals engaged in the project have also been
signposted to other key services including VOCAL (carer’s support), Advocacy
services and food banks.