Page 30 - MELD Stimulant service

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The Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale
(WEMWBS) – Before and After Scores

Statement None Rarely Some Often All of
of the of the the
time time time
1 2 3 4 5

I’ve been feeling optimistic about the future 2 3
I’ve been feeling useful 2 3
I’ve been feeling relaxed 2 4
I’ve been feeling interested in other people 3 4
I’ve had energy to spare 3 4

I’ve been dealing with problems well 2 3
I’ve been thinking clearly 2 3
I’ve been feeling good about myself 3 4
I’ve been feeling close to other people 3 4
I’ve been feeling confident 1 3

I’ve been able to make up my mind about things 2 3
I’ve been feeling loved 3 4
I’ve been interested in new things 2 4
I’ve been feeling cheerful 2 3

First treatment
Last treatment

14 CONCLUSION

For clients in recovery, this can be a daunting and difficult process with many
barriers. Complementary therapies can be a gentle and positive first step to
support short term and long term substance use goals which include reduction
and abstinence. We are aware as a service that some individuals presenting
to MELD feel overwhelmed and adopt poor coping strategies to deal with the
stress and anxiety impact from difficult life situations. The stimulant project has
presented an opportunity to connect to individuals using a holistic model of
support with an emphasis on listening to, and understanding the reasons why
people use stimulant drugs and the challenges they have faced trying to stop or
reduce. Insight gained has challenged perceptions that the majority of people
use stimulant drugs in a social setting with others. For a number of individuals,
they are using these substances in isolation and at higher risk of overdose. They
report being disconnected to others, which in turn can result in poor mental and
physical health leading to loss of hope, sense of belonging and purposefulness.

The complementary therapy project has demonstrated positive outcomes for
supporting reductions in stress and anxiety levels, improved sleeping patterns,
enhanced and uplifted mood, reduced cravings, feeling more connected to
others and general well-being. When there is a sense of connection, individuals
report a greater sense of inclusion, purpose and motivation for change.