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Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) Group was launched for patients in secure hospitals of the Glen Care Group.
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After 18 years battling Schizophrenia, I know I can make it this time. Aiden's journey to recovery.
Aiden fought schizophrenia for more than 18 years - enduring countless cycles of admissions, discharges and re-admissions.
"They stick needles in me and then chuck me out into the community. What choice did I have? I just went back to the old way of life. I didn't know anything else." Aiden's illness made him aggressive and sometimes violent. Unable to control his frustrations, he gradually lost everything - his friends, family and eventually his job and a place to live. He also lost faith in himself, his belief that he would ever be able to build his life again.
In 2007 Aiden was admitted to Glen Care's low secure unit. "I didn't want to be here, I was wary, paranoid, but things got better. I got to know the staff, other patients and now it is more of a family. We all look out for each other. Staff believe that we can make it."
At Glen Care Aiden focussed on developing coping strategies and daily living skills. "It wasn't always easy", Aiden admitted. "We all have good days, we all have bad days. But every day, staff have been here to support me and not let me slip back."
18 months after his admission to Glen Care's low secure unit, Aiden progressed to Glen Care's locked rehabilitation unit. Today, Aiden sees his future in a different light. His mental state is settled. He is self-medicating. He developed insight into his illness. He studies Maths & Literacy with Learn Direct to increase his chances of getting a job.
His care coordinator has seen the progress Aiden has made with Glen Care. She found a place for Aiden in supported shared accommodation in the neighbourhood. This means that Aiden has continuity in the community activities and builds on the skills he has gained. If there is one piece advice Aiden has for people working with patients like him it is: "Don't treat people based on their appearance, see the person behind their diagnosis."
Aiden now has the skills and believes in himself that he can break away from the "revolving door" of schizophrenia and find his place in the world. "I know I can make it this time."
