According to research, 45% of Australian adults are likely to be affected by mental illness at some point in their lifetime. Unfortunately, this condition affects how we feel, think, and act, leading to various emotional, physical, and behavioral health issues. So, can one recover from mental illness? Recovery can be challenging: working with a psychosocial recovery coach can help. That said, what is psychosocial recovery coaching?
Psychosocial recovery coaching
It is a service that offers capacity-building support to Australians living with psychological conditions like acquired brain injuries, depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety. It is an initiative under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), introduced in 2020.
A psychosocial recovery coach assists NDIS participants in understanding their plans and using their funding appropriately. They also connect participants to the services they require, offer guidance for goal attainment, and foresee any issues that may arise to solve them efficiently.
Why should anyone consider psychosocial recovery coaching?
The service was introduced after the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) identified the need for a support coordination service that concentrates on mental health knowledge. It realized that participants needed a coach who could work strength-based and take a holistic approach to identify and achieve goals.
When should you engage a psychosocial recovery coach?
- You are confused about your NDIS plan or unsure how to utilize it to connect with various services.
- Your goals feel overwhelming, and a recovery coach can help you break them down into attainable steps.
- You often experience crises and need assistance to prepare and navigate the challenges.
- You need strategies to manage mental health or be more organized and productive.
How do psychosocial recovery coaches work?
It starts by knowing and understanding the participant. These include their aspirations and the opportunities that can help achievement while identifying any barriers that could prevent growth. It helps formulate a practical plan that will boost positive results.
Afterward, the recovery coach works with the participant to find the NDIS services that foster goal attainment and monitor the planned budget. Still, these coaches go beyond the NDIS. They also support participants in engaging with healthcare professionals, hobbies, activities, community groups, and mainstream services.
Typically, the coach develops a recovery plan based on their lived or learned experiences during the first few meetings. It incorporates a crisis plan to empower the customer to get help if feeling unwell. The coach also checks on the participant throughout the service, ensuring they are happy with their services while listening to them when things aren’t favorable.
Lived experiences show that they have conquered their mental challenges and know what it takes to overcome them. On the other hand, learned experiences refer to formal and informal qualifications that build the capacity to support those with psychological and mental health conditions.
Does the psychosocial recovery coach make daily life less stressful for participants?
The coach improves life quality for participants. Those with mental conditions may find it challenging to cope with daily tasks. That’s where a PRC comes in handy. They accompany participants to appointments and activities or groups they relish, assist them in following up on NDIS matters associated with their goals, and solve issues with their budget or plan. Having a friendly voice and face only a call away can make any horrible experience more comfortable.
Conclusion
A psychosocial recovery coach provides all-rounded support for promoting healthy and quality life. It includes emotional support for more confidence that you’ll conquer any challenges that come your way. You should highly consider the service of a PRC!
