What is mental health illness?

Mental illness can affect all people of all ages from young children to the elderly.

It is different in everyone and there are many differing causes; some are inherited genetically, whilst others are brought on by lifestyle or events.

Without the right support and interventions, a mental health illness can prevent individuals from enjoying life.

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Some of the more commonly known mental health problems are:

· Depression

· Anxiety

· Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

· Eating Disorders

· Phobias

· Bi-Polar Disorder

· Schizophrenia

· Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD)

· Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

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Mental health illness can cause individuals' complete, or partial dysfunction within their daily lives; they may have trouble managing their medications, get into debt, become more reclusive and withdrawn, personal hygiene and appearance may suffer, and many other reasons that may also prevent social engagement, further reducing self-esteem.

 

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How can home care help with mental illness?

Although we cannot provide the psychiatric and therapeutic help that is required for mental health illness recovery, we do help with the day-to-day things that may have become more difficult, such as:

· Support, friendship and emotional encouragement

· Help with washing and personal appearance

· Medication management

· Support with social activities

· Housework and light domestic duties

· Preparing and cooking meals

· Planning activities

· Help with household bills/money management

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Home care, part of the whole solution

We provide person centred care and support with a focus on outcomes to achieve 'self-defined recovery' that considers how each person wants to live within the context of their mental health condition. We also team up with case workers, social workers, family members, friends, and others working with individuals to support them to reach their goals.

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We track progress of goals and match staff to individuals' preferences and locality. We help to promote better health with nutrition and lifestyles choice suggestions; promoting an active life for people with mental health issues. We also encourage independent living, whether that is to retain, or regain independence.

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Our home carers will help to support the local approach to safeguarding of people with mental health issues.

We encourage people with mental health issues to have their say about the support they receive, and provide support based on dignity and respect. We work with people who are in receipt Direct payments , self funding  and services purchased wholly or partly by the local council.