A person-centered program that identifies and works on physical health goals for people with mental health is changing the way it is provided during COVID-19.
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Senior practice leader Helen Piper said for the safety of consumers and staff Activ8 reduced its face-to-face contact. But tailoring the program during the coronavirus is proving beneficial for those who use it.
"People living with mental health also have physical health needs. It is important to maintain your physical wellbeing to maintain your mental health," Mrs Piper said.
"Unfortunately we did have to cancel the group programs that we run. But what we have been doing is offering our one-on-one coaching for the physical health program over the phone or various online platforms. We have around 50 people using the program at the moment".
Activ8 is a Neami National program run in the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and South East NSW. It is funded for 12 months at a time by Coordinare SENSW Primary Health Network.
Mrs Piper said there has been a really good uptake of the new approach by those people Activ8's three peer health coaches in the Illawarra work with.
"What we have really noticed is that physical health is one area that consumers can explore that is within their control," she said.
"It is an opportunity for them to maintain their wellbeing during these uncertain times. We are working with people around setting really small goals to keep their wellbeing intact while they are isolated and not able to go out as much".
Activ8 coaches do many things such as helping people download and use meditation apps, connecting them with neighbours and supporting them as they leave the house by going on a walk with them via the phone.
Coaches also talk people through good sleep hygiene and encourage them to do regular physical health activities and keep medical appointments.
"Our coaches provide a sense of hope that it is possible to come out the other side of this," Mrs Piper said.
"The innovations we have made have actually increased our capacity to work with more people. Coaches used to be only able to see three people in a day. Now they can be in touch with five or six. It also means we can be in contact with each person more frequently.
"Having a more regular check in actually supports people a little more with their goals. People are really appreciating that. They are saying it is helping them do well.
"Being trained mental health professionals we are mindful of how people are doing with their mental health and if things come up we will direct them to the right services and support where and when it is needed".
Activ8 is funded by Coordinare until June. People can either be referred through their mental health worker or refer themselves.They just need to be able to identify they are living with mental health.
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