The idealised result for people with mental illnesses is to rapidly return to their ‘normal’ level of functioning. This isn’t always possible
is a column where experts discuss mental health issues they are seeing in their work
Despite heavy drinking for the past seven years, Peter presented for treatment because he was told by his employer to get on top of his alcohol problem or he would lose his job. Like many men I see in the clinic, Peter had been referred several times before, but only with the risk of losing his employment did he keep his appointment.Peter starts by saying, “I don’t think I’m that bad. It’s just work and the wife that seem concerned by my drinking.
Peter is now sleeping in the living room and is vague on the reasons for this. I ask him if Amara is considering a separation and he denies this saying: “I don’t think so. We’ve been married too long.” I make a mental note to consider a family meeting at a later stage of treatment. He concedes that the distance between his children and himself does make him sad and is constantly apologising for being hungover or forgetting sporting activities.
In the last week of his detox, I observe that Peter has some signs of depression and I recommend antidepressants which he refuses saying: “I think that’s too many pills”. We discuss therapy to assist with staying sober and interpersonal issues involving his wife and children. Peter worries that therapy will make his symptoms worse as it involves rehashing old wounds.
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