Naomi Cooper
Senior Occupational Therapist
The Challenge
The person had significant difficulty regulating her emotions. She found that she would feel settled and then either become extremely angry or have urges to self-harm throughout the day. She found it difficult to communicate & keep herself safe.
The Change
We created a 'safety plan' whereby, she identified a safe word that she informed the MDT when feeling overwhelmed. She & I identified activities that helped such as breathing exercises, music, colouring and cold water which she was supported to use.
The Impact
She, the MDT & I felt that we were able to support her when she was distressed. She started to learn her 'warning signs' & learn how to communicate these. Her incidents rapidly reduced on the ward. She has taken the techniques home with her too!
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