Hi @Shaz51 @MadameMeow @Former-Member @MEB @Former-Member @Former-Member
Here is the Christmas Plan B template I was referring to in Topic Tuesday tonight:
Over the Christmas holidays, some Doctors and community based organisations are not available. Some might be just closed for the public holidays, while others might take an extended break.
Before Christmas, list the name of your doctors and/or community based organisations (those you can rely on if things go downhill) and their closure times:
Resource: If you find a lot of your usual supports are not available, check out the Carers Gateway which you can search by postcode for some alternative supports: https://www.carergateway.gov.au/
Work with your loved one to develop a plan if things don’t go well over Christmas –
What are the signs they aren’t doing so well?
What course of action do you agree on if they display the signs they listed above?
- What strategies or distractions do they agree to attempt?
- What services do you agree on contacting if the strategies and distractions don’t work?
Resource: BeyondBlue’s BeyondNow Suicide Safety plan is a great app that your loved one may want to fill out or work with you on, if either of you are concerned about feeling suicidal. The plan can be emailed to you so you have a copy handy ( https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/beyondnow-suicide-safety-planning)
If you don’t feel comfortable having a conversation with your loved one - List some of the strategies (eg: mindfulness) or distractions (eg: a hobby, TV etc) that has helped your loved one at times of distress previously:
Keep this list handy for suggestions if you need them.
Does your loved one have enough medication to get through the Christmas period? (finding out your local chemists Christmas hours may also be helpful)
If you are concerned about the immediate safety of your loved one, places to call include:
000
Crisis Assessment and Treatment Team (Google to find your local)
What activity can you lock in that will give you some valuable time to yourself? (hobby, designate a day out, exercise, a place you like to go, a relaxing activity)
What support do you have over the Christmas period (friends, family)?
It's likely you have thought about a lof of these things above - but having them handy on one page can be really helpful if things spiral and you don't have the energy or brain power. Sometimes just having it there is peace of mind and we never have to use it!
If you feel comfortable sharing some of your responses, please do (obviously besides the details or your friends, family and doctors 🙂 )
Otherwise, feel free to copy this template and write up your own responses to keep to yourself. We hope you find it helpful.
