How Can a Case Manager Help Me?

As previously mentioned, the case manager is responsible for looking after your interests within public mental health services. This means making sure you receive a full assessment which involves a mental state examination, a physical examination and an assessment of your need for services.

Not only are case managers there to help you make the best use of these services, but they are also there to make sure these services respond to you quickly and efficiently.

Part of the working relationship with your case manager involves looking at the range of areas which may lead to your stress and how you manage these areas in your daily life. So, a 'needs for service' assessment includes:

• Emotional and mental wellbeing.
• Dealing with stress.
• Personal response to illness.
• Personal safety and safety of others.
• Friendships and social relationships.
• Work, leisure and education.
• Daily living skills.
• Family response to your illness.
• Income.
• Physical health.
• Housing.
• Rights and advocacy.

The reason for exploring these areas is to find out what is going to be most useful for your recovery and a better quality of life.

You may not want to discuss all of these areas straight away as some may be more important to you than others. Your case manager will respect your privacy except when they think you or someone else may be at risk.

One of the best ways the case manager will help you with any problem areas is through an Individual Service Plan, often referred to as an ISP.