As Amy's situation at work worsened, she was referred to the Access to Work Mental Health Support Service in November 2022.

Amy explained: “I felt directionless and stuck and didn’t know what to do with myself.” She began fortnightly support sessions with Mental Health Support Service Coach, Alison McCausland. “I immediately felt that Alison was speaking my language; she taught me to step back from my situation, and not blame myself. “By the third call, I felt I was speaking to a friend, who was able to see the bigger picture. Alison was able to point me towards information on benefits, and how to manage my mental wellbeing.”

During sessions with her coach, Amy established that work and being creative was a key to improving her mental wellbeing. She explained: “I felt that work was the key to improving my mental health, as this would help me to reclaim my independence.”

Talking about her experience of working with Amy, Alison said: “Amy has been proactive in listening to and following advice. It is great to see how far Amy has come since being referred to the Access to Work Mental Health Support Service. She is now enjoying working once more. “Although she still has challenges, Amy is in a much better place than she was at the start of the support and continues to work on self-care, using the strategies she has learned, which have had a positive impact upon her mental health.”

She continues to receive support from Alison when required.
Amy reflected: “I now have a positive outlook at work. It feels good to be contributing, and I’d have to give all the credit to Alison for my recovery. I had needed to be heard and reassured, and she has been an amazing sounding board.”