How to Manage Changes at Southport- Nicole Black

Have you been having difficulty with the changes here at Southport?

I have, but I know the changes are not personal and most of them are not in the hands of the staff that I interact with. It is important that I talk to my RC about my feelings regarding the changes. Some of them effect how much support she can give me. This frustrates us both. But the decision is not in our hands. I also make sure that my therapist and psychiatrist are aware of the stress and frustration the changes are causing. The more we as clients speak up to our support team the better they will be able to help us through these changes. I am very sensitive to change as many of us are here at St. Luke’s House Threshold Services United are. However, the ability to adapt to change is a good skill to learn. Change is a constant in life. Even when we develop a routine that gives us structure and comfort, unforeseen events will interrupt that stability. How we regain our stability can ease the stress. What I do 1^st is to accept the interruption. I also accept that it may not feel good, but it may be out of the scope of my control. The 2^nd thing I do is inform my RC, either in person or leave her a voice mail, not only about the interruption or new situation but also how I feel in that moment. If we are meeting in person I actively listen to her feedback and we figure out how I can manage my stress and if there is anything I can do about the change/interruption/new situation. If I cannot reach her I sit down and try to breathe. I focus on my breathing and not the issue. Once I feel less emotional, I try to accept what just happened as beyond my control at that moment. I try to stay in the moment and not jump ahead speculating outcomes.

                I have found that these actions help me feel better:

ü  Put a solution or request in the suggestion box

ü  Attend groups that lower stress: Seated Exercise, Be Kind Unwind, Fitness/Swimming

ü  Express feelings in therapy

ü  Ask staff if there is anyone above them you can express your frustration to

The more interactive we are as clients and utilize our resources the more manageable these changes will be.  Our input does count and is welcomed if we go through the proper channels with clear intent and without animosity. In other words stabilize ourselves so we can be heard.