Through the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), the Electrical Industries Charity supported Neil, who spent some time in the army and now works as a warehouse operative for an electrical wholesaler.
Initially, Neil’s workplace referred him to the EIC in September 2018 for psychological support. The charity understands how important a support network can be to someone who is struggling to deal with emotional trauma, and the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is designed to help.
The EAP ensures that employees and their immediate family members have a shoulder to lean on at the most difficult times, by offering them vital support services including counselling, legal advice and financial assistance and grants.
Neil has sadly been self-harming since he was 15. His behaviour is triggered by childhood abuse, which he has never reported. Neil admitted he has been struggling emotionally, and relayed to the EIC that he doesn't leave his room.
Neil also talked about his struggles with suicidal thoughts and that he has previously attempted to take his own life twice. After speaking with EIC in depth, Neil agreed to a psychiatric assessment.
The charity enlisted the support of Psychiatry UK who assessed Neil and recommended changes in medication. In addition, the charity funded a trauma psychologist to help with Neil’s condition.
Neil was finally referred to an NHS psychology team for therapy intervention, where he has been attending sessions regularly.
Neil’s self-harming has reduced after his hospital stay; however, he lives in a small house with a big family and is unable to quieten his thoughts with the surrounding noise which triggers Neil’s anxiety.
We understand this is a complex and difficult time for everyone. We are living in a time of great uncertainty and increasing worry about our health and livelihoods. We understand that the effect of COVID-19 on our industry and income will be great and we will all be affected. In times of darkness and insecurity we want to let our Industry members know, that we will be here to help, and we want to help Neil find respite.
In times of crisis, communities strengthen and work together to support each other. We are an industry in community.
Thanks to support from the industry, every year the Electrical Industries Charity is able to offer hundreds of our industry colleagues both practical and emotional support during their time of need.
If you or someone you know is struggling to deal with a life-changing trauma and requires support, please contact the EIC support team: support@electricalcharity.org or 0800 652 1618.
www.electricalcharity.org