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Case Study - Mental Health Services

Dale was medically retired due to a work related back injury. He lives with his 2nd wife and their dogs in a large rural community. Dale previously enjoyed full employment and was the family's sole bread winner.

Since his retirement Dale has been admitted into a number of inpatient psychiatric units for severe depression. Dale also has a persistent back injury, diabetes and sleep apnoea.

Dale was referred to the Day to Day Living in the Community Program 12 months ago. He was dissatisfied with his weight gain due to medication, was experiencing financial hardship due to loss of employment and was sleep deprived due to untreated sleep apnoea.

Over the last 12 months Dale has become actively engaged in the Gym and walking program, attends 'Mind meetings' with his peers, and now sleeps eight hours a night after the program obtained a machine to assist him to breathe during the night. Dale has requested support to volunteer at the local Men's Shed and is making plans to reconnect with his children from his first marriage.

Dale's healthy lifestyle and connection with people has enabled him to manage his depression and diabetes within his own limitations and says he has changed his outlook and increased his opportunities in life.