Case Study | Dave | Wellmind Health

"Without the help, support and the tools I've learnt I wouldn't be in that position to be able to go back out to work."

Dave
Manchester UK

Challenge

Sever depression and anxiety
Panic attacks and suicidal thoughts
Loss of confidence and extremely negative outlook
Unable to take up employment due to poor mental health and panic attacks

Solution: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy digital therapeutic

Employment-support case worker recommendation of Be Mindful
Specialised self-paced MBCT program
Accessible, effective digital support tool
Flexible and on demand program on his smartphone

78%

Reduction in anxiety

100%

Reduction in depression

45%

Reduction in stress

"Be Mindful has given me the tools to get through things and to get myself in a better place, and I am in a better place now."

Dave
Manchester UK

Summary

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dave was furloughed from his job in retail then made redundant, and had caring responsibilities for his parents. He gradually descended into anxiety and deep depression, experienced panic attacks and had an extremely negative mindset, to the point where he became suicidal. He realised he needed help and visited his GP, who prescribed antidepressants. While the medication helped to calm Dave, he had concerns about addiction and wanted to deal with the root causes of his mental health issues.

Dave secured a job but had severe panic attacks on his first day and could not continue. Following this, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Universal Credit department referred Dave to their Work and Health Programme run by Ingeus. His Ingeus case worker was very supportive and referred Dave for an 8-week course of therapy which was highly beneficial. Dave was concerned as the therapy course was ending so his case worker suggested Be Mindful.

Be Mindful

Dave found Be Mindful invaluable as a continuation after therapy. It provided him with tools that he could learn and continue daily to get through challenges and improve his mental health. It gave him the confidence to undertake craft and photography courses with Adult Community Learning. Dave then felt able to start volunteering with them. He continues to volunteer and now works as a school invigilator.

Dave gradually came off the anti-depressants and no longer takes them. Be Mindful helped Dave to be in the present, overcome stress and maintain a sense of calm. He found the meditation, mindfulness, breathing exercises and journal particularly effective. Dave now describes himself as "the new Dave". He enjoys volunteering and his work as an invigilator but is now ready to look for a more permanent role.

How Be Mindful helped Dave to improve his mental health and return to employment