After a referral to TBHG’s Health Advisory Service, Fiona explained that they were experiencing high levels of panic, anxiety and low mood.
Although highly qualified and keen to return to employment, previous experiences at work had affected their confidence. They were particularly concerned about their ability to manage panic and anxiety in a professional environment.
Alongside this, they were experiencing challenges with their sleep and general wellbeing, leaving them feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of taking their next step.
The individual had already shown considerable resilience in managing previous periods of poor mental health. What they needed was practical guidance and a supportive space to develop strategies that would help them feel ready to move forward.
Finding strategies that worked
The Health Advisory sessions focused on the individual’s priorities, beginning with practical approaches to managing panic and anxiety.
Sessions also explored motivation, confidence and the role that positive habits and routines can play in supporting wellbeing.
Importantly, the individual took these ideas beyond the sessions. They independently researched topics discussed during their support and introduced tools and apps to help establish a routine and recognise their achievements.
These small changes helped them develop a greater sense of structure and control.
An unexpected opportunity
During the programme, the individual was offered an interview for a potential new role.
While this was an exciting opportunity, it also brought a familiar challenge: anxiety about the interview itself.
They were concerned about how they would perform, how they would answer questions and whether their anxiety would get in the way.
Their Health Advisory session provided an opportunity to work through those concerns.
They received practical interview guidance, including the STAR technique, alongside strategies for managing anxiety before and during the interview.
Following a successful interview, the individual was offered the role.
The individual wanted to make sure that returning to work was sustainable and that their wellbeing remained a priority as they adjusted to their new environment.
Setting up for success
The focus therefore shifted towards maintaining wellbeing in the workplace.
Together, they explored how a wellbeing plan could help the individual identify strategies that supported them and communicate their needs proactively with their employer.
This meant they could enter their new role with a plan in place, rather than waiting until difficulties arose.
By the end of the programme, the individual had completed their first week in their new role and reported that it had gone well.
Their employer had taken positive steps to support their wellbeing, helping them make a confident start.
The difference support made
Alongside successfully returning to employment, the individual reported a number of positive changes in their wellbeing.
They experienced:
- Reduced anxiety and panic
- Greater confidence
- Increased motivation
- Improved sleep
- Better strategies for managing stress and overwhelm
- Greater confidence in maintaining their wellbeing at work
The individual had moved from feeling uncertain about their ability to manage employment to successfully securing a role and beginning their new chapter.
