Mental Illness Care in Devon

Living with a mental health issue can be debilitating and have a significant impact on your daily life. One in four people in the UK have problems with their mental health in their lifetime; if a mental illness is left untreated it can become a catalyst for a variety of medical complications, and can lead to extended periods of hospitalisation. However, suffering from a mental illness doesn’t have to stop you, or a loved one, continuing to live the lifestyle you want. With the right support, those suffering with their mental health can live fulfilling independent lives.

What is Mental Illness?

A mental illness is defined as a condition that causes serious disorder in an individual’s behaviour or thinking, and covers a broad range of illnesses such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, anorexia and obsessive compulsive disorder. Just like other illnesses a mental illness can vary in severity, and also responds to, and requires, treatment.

Mental health problems can have a wide variety of causes; often it is difficult to confidently distinguish what causes a particular mental health condition. Difficult periods of a person’s life, or particular traumas can trigger mental illness. However, biological factors can also play a role in developing mental conditions. Research has found that there may be genetic factors that lead to mental illness, and chemical imbalances in the brain can also be a contributing factor. Other health issues such as suffering from another illness, a head injury or thyroid problems are also associated with the development of certain mental health issues, like depression.

Each mental illness will manifest in a different way. However, symptoms can include withdrawing from others and social situations, erratic mood swings, low mood, intrusive thoughts and a change in sleeping pattern. Like any other illness, each individual may experience their condition differently to another with the same diagnosis.

Our Mental Illness Care and Support

At Home Care Preferred we understand that living, or caring for a loved one, with a mental health issue can be a very stressful and upsetting time. That is why our team members are fully equipped to help you, and those closest to you, manage the challenges a mental illness diagnosis can bring. We appreciate everyone’s experience of mental illness is different, and we cater to each individual’s specific requirements. Our people centred approach allows our support assistants to deliver the right medical, emotional and social support needed by their client, enabling them to continue living within their own home, and confidently engaging in the activities they enjoy to improve quality of life and alleviate their symptoms.

Our support assistants are specially trained to provide mental health care and support. They offer assistance ranging from help around the house and aiding social interaction to managing appropriate medication, and assisting with holistic therapies and treatments. Home Care Preferred are there to carry out all the practical care aspects that the client desires with compassion and understanding whilst promoting independence and confidence .

As well as offering medical and practical support where necessary, our support assistants also offer emotional support, companionship and encouragement. Whilst they understand helping with household chores and the medical aspects of mental illness is vital, they also appreciate the positive benefits a chat about shared likes, dislikes and hobbies can have on a client’s morale. This is why we pair clients with support assistants who have a complementary personality, as well as possessing the relevant skill set. We are there to encourage clients to engage in activities they have previously enjoyed, or take up new hobbies that have proven beneficial effects on their symptoms. For example, exercise is proven to lift the mood, and art therapies using mediums such as music, art, dance, drama or literature are an excellent way to express yourself in a therapeutic environment.

Our mental health care and support includes:

Support with personal care that is tailored to each individual
Visiting care that can adapt as your needs change, supporting complex medication and holistic therapies
Short regular visits through to longer visits, night care, respite or a full time live in carer
Specialist support assistants who are trained to help them understand the complexities of mental illness

Letting a support assistant into the home of you or your loved one isn’t an easy decision. Understandably people have lots of questions and reservations about mental illness care at home. Our friendly, highly experienced team members are always available to answer any questions you might have. We’re happy to talk you through each of the steps involved in the mental illness care and support we offer, and offer compassionate, impartial advice when wanted.

Find out more about mental illness from Mind and the NHS website.