What was the situation?
CM was referred to us by his mum as she was worried that his mental health was declining. CM has autism and anxiety, his moods dip up and down.
What was the intervention?
We invited CM to try our mental health and horticulture sessions. On his first visit CM was really shy and anxious, and was not making eye contact. He didn’t accept any drinks and was very nervous being there. I stayed with CM for the whole session and tried to introduce him to the other service users there. His Mum said he was very capable of doing most activities so I gave him options of activities he could do around the garden and told him to pick one and I would help. By the end of the first session he was talking to me and giving me information about what he likes doing when he’s at home.
What was the outcome?
CM came to his next session and got on with an activity without being prompted. He started talking to another service and from that point onwards they have built up a great friendship. Some days CM comes in in a bad mood and I ask him if he’s ok, does he want to talk about it? Usually something has upset him in the morning at home and by the end of the session he’s absolutely fine. CM talks to all service users now and loves being in the centre. A few weeks ago his Mum rang to tell us how happy he was since he started and how much his confidence has increased.
