Case Study: From Crisis to Confidence

From Crisis to Confidence

Background

After being placed on a waiting list for over two years without any medication reviews or consistent GP appointments, Alex (name changed) reached a breaking point. They felt life was no longer worth living. With frequent daily calls to the crisis team, their anxiety and depression dominated every aspect of their life. Relationships with family and their partner had broken down, and past childhood traumas remained unprocessed.

Intervention

Alex was offered low-level counselling at LilyAnne’s Wellbeing, focused on:

• Exploring and talking through childhood trauma in a safe, non-judgemental space.

• Developing coping strategies to manage intrusive thoughts and emotional triggers.

• Building resilience through understanding personal triggers and learning grounding techniques.

Alongside counselling, Alex was encouraged to engage in:

• Volunteering opportunities at community projects, which gave purpose and structure.

• Local wellbeing groups such as coffee mornings and peer support activities.

• Links to statutory services and other third-sector organisations, ensuring wrap-around support.

• Skills-building activities to grow confidence and prepare for future employment.

Progress

Through regular counselling and ongoing support, Alex gradually reduced their reliance on the crisis team — from daily calls to none at all for over 12 months. They learned to:

• Identify and manage trauma triggers.

• Rebuild positive relationships with their family and partner.

• Embrace volunteering and skills training as a way of moving forward with purpose.

Outcome

Alex now feels like they have their life back on track. Anxiety and depression are no longer overwhelming, and they have regained a sense of control, confidence, and hope. They enjoy a stronger relationship with their partner, feel reconnected with family, and continue to use the coping strategies learned through counselling.

“I never thought I’d get to a place where I didn’t need the crisis team. Now I can manage my triggers, use the strategies I’ve learned, and look forward to the future.” — Alex