Make sure to learn about any medications the individual may be on and what kind of effects it may have in their day to day life. You can best combat any negative effects if you know what’s causing them. Ensure the individual is being active, both physically and socially. If the individual is capable, teach them how to take public transit, encourage them to join Special Olympics or a day program if there are any available in your area. Bring them with you grocery shopping, teach them about healthier alternatives with their food choices and teach them step by step how to make some of their favorite foods. Don’t rush into things, if the individual enjoys toast and jam, teach them how to make it. You don’t need to help them cook anything complex, simplicity is the best way to start and then grow from there. If your individual is happy, then you’ve succeeded in supporting their mental health. You’ve succeeded in supporting their health in general.
Everything goes hand in hand, it all trickles down. Having good physical health encourages an individual to be physically active, and socially active in their community. This all trickles down to mental health. If an individual has healthy mental health, they’ll be more encouraged to sustain the life they have and continue to enjoy life to the fullest. It’s as simple as that. Emotions are contagious, if the individual is happy so will everyone around them. Disability or not, it’s a natural instinct to protect the life we love and enjoy so much.
It’s important to listen to the client. Making sure to ask them what they like, what they need and what they want. Encouraging them to express themselves in healthy ways, giving them the chance to speak up just like you would if you were with friends.
Add comment
Comments