Clinical Psychology
- Overcoming workplace trauma
Guido, 28 years old, sustained a partial amputation of his right finger whilst employed in a large carpentry firm. Following surgery Guido was able to return to work however, when in the vicinity of the machine or if he heard the machine on which he injured himself, he experienced symptoms of anxiety and depression.
He also suffered from nightmares and flashbacks to the accident and reported less energy, social withdrawal, reduced enjoyment and concern about the likelihood of a further accident.
Guido attended for a course of cognitive behavioural treatment for approximately two and a half months. Treatment included education about the nature of anxiety and practical strategies such as relaxation, controlled breathing, and graded imaginal and in-vivo (real life) exposure. Following treatment Guido was able to resume his full pre-injury duties including use of the 'offending' machine.
At completion of treatment Guido reported minimal symptoms of depression and anxiety, the absence of nightmares and flashbacks and increased participation in social activities.
Clinical Psychology
- New perspective on pain
Janice was referred for assistance in dealing with her chronic pain. Janice initially developed pain in her right forearm as a result of the repetitive and heavy nature of her work as a product inspector. Her symptoms increased and she eventually experienced pain radiating to her upper arm, headaches, migraines, pain and swelling in her hand and fingers, for which she had been prescribed strong analgesia.
Janice was unable to do many previous household tasks, required redeployment and had not participated in many of her former leisure activities. Janice was depressed and anxious as a result of her injury, its sequelae and associated losses.
Psychological treatment educated Janice about chronic pain and provided practical strategies such as activity pacing to allow her to resume many tasks. Cognitive Behavioural strategies such as relaxation and cognitive reframing were initiated to assist Janice manage the stress associated with her chronic pain and minimise the impact this had on her mood and family relationships.
At completion of treatment, rather than focussing on her limitations, Janice was working part-time in alternative duties, and reported her mood to be more stable and that she felt increasingly confident about her future.
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