Page 27 - MELD Stimulant service

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Through consultation with Client A, she identified that she wanted to try
massage to see if this would reduce her stress levels and help her to manage
the physical pain she was experiencing from a number of health issues. During
Client A’s sessions, she reported that her stress levels had eased and this had
also impacted upon her drinking levels. As a result of drinking less, she felt less
urges to use cocaine. She also felt better able to step back from her situation
and to feel clearer headed to identify what she needed to do in order to try and
reduce her stress levels. High stress levels were the main contributors to her
continued alcohol and cocaine use.

Outcomes:

• Reduced alcohol use from 3 nights to 1 night each week. Sometimes
reported no alcohol use.

• Reduced cocaine use to between 0-0.5 grams of cocaine every second or
third week-end. Sometimes did not report any use.

• Reduced physical pain and increased range of motion.
• Increased confidence and was able to approach her employer and discuss
her stress levels (not disclosing drug use) and explore whether she could
reduce her hours.

• External referral made to VOCAL (carer support).

Client A Quotes

“I feel that attending this service for massage
has really helped me with stress and sleep.
It’s the only time I switch off and I sleep well
for a few nights afterwards.”

“I don’t want to attend appointments during
the day as I work in the community and might
be seen coming here.”