GS
"I suffer with depression and severe anxiety which has been my companion for over 5 years now. The POD took on my case over a year ago and Sarah has been instrumental in my recovery.
Sarah in essence took over organising all the activities that we identified would be beneficial to my physical and mental wellbeing. Some examples are listed below :-
- Rock Choir- which she arranged and initially attended with me to help me feel comfortable and settle in. This activity helps divert my attention away from my situation.
- Sarah also has helped me to fill out multiple forms including a School DBS check and Blue Badge application which were both successful and have helped me no end.
- The POD also arranged a voluntary placement in a local school to read with year 5 school children which is helping me to gain my confidence back on a weekly basis. Sarah once again accompanied me to the school initially, planned my journey and completed all paperwork necessary for this placement to commence.
- Sarah also arranged a yoga class for me and came along to support me. This activity helped with my relaxation and physical symptoms.
- The POD also supported me in researching the mind field of the benefits system, and signposted me to other websites and support available. Through the PODs support I was awarded the PIP benefit which previously I had been declined.
- Sarah also liaises with my care co-ordinator and the mental health team to chase them for appointments if needed and also keeps other departments updated as necessary. She has also attended many multi-disciplinary team meetings where my care is co-ordinated.
- Sarah was there for me during a crisis episode and she approached the right people who could help me, at a time when I was at my lowest.
Sarah and I have bi – weekly phone check-ins and I am able to comfortably discuss all my concerns and burdens that have been troubling me over the weeks with her… this is like therapy for me. On some weeks I meet up with her at the POD café for a cup of tea/ bite to eat and we discuss progress and future actions together as well as problem solve and come up with solutions for what troubles me.
Sarah’s contribution has been invaluable for my mental and physical wellbeing for which I am sincerely appreciative. She is approachable and empathetic and she has become my confidante and I trust her fully with my feelings. Words can’t emphasise the effect the POD and Sarah in particular has had on me. I would be lost without them."
GS