Karen and Ian

Karen's depression, anxiety disorder and drug addiction have been difficult to address, but with assistance to help her cope with her childhood trauma and support from her partner, Ian, she is making great steps towards recovery.

Karen, 43, has over 10 experiences of hospitalisation for severe and disabling depression and anxiety symptoms relating to a traumatic childhood of abuse. She has also developed a drug addiction as a coping mechanism.

Karen was referred by her clinical manager to the 12-week Transition to Recovery (TRec) program at Woden Community Service, an intensive outreach service. During her assessment, Karen gave permission for her partner Ian to be involved, including participating in her recovery planning.

The TRec worker referred Karen to the Personal Helpers and Mentors Employment Specialist at Woden Community Service as Karen had identified that getting a job was one of her recovery goals. Together with the Employment Specialist, Karen discussed barriers to employment. One of these barriers was her drug addiction. Karen decided to access a detox program with Directions ACT. She has also been referred for ongoing counselling and participation in a support group for her drug problem.

Each person's recovery journey is different and there can be setbacks along the way. Karen's sessions with a trauma counsellor were confronting and Ian notified the TRec team of his concerns about his partner. The TRec worker contacted Karen and arranged for her to meet with her clinical manager. She was admitted to hospital for treatment and care. After one week, Karen was discharged and she has resumed working on her recovery goals.

Ian also received support from the TRec team. This included referring him to Carers ACT for respite and counselling.