Ian’s story
Ian’s journey began following a severe nervous breakdown in 2022, which led to multiple hospitalisations, suicide attempts, and ongoing struggles with severe depression. Ian is a loving husband to his wife, father to two children, and doting grandfather to four grandchildren, and was deeply involved in his local community as a volunteer prior to his breakdown. Known for his outgoing and friendly nature, Ian's severe mental health crisis drastically altered his life.
Ian found himself unable to leave the house, losing all interest in his once vibrant social life and cherished family connections. After being discharged from the Community Mental Health Team (CMHT), Ian faced uncertainty about his future. With thirty years spent as a truck driver, he found himself at a crossroads, lacking job-seeking skills and struggling with diminished self-confidence. Ian discovered the SAMH Step Up programme after his wife found a flyer at their doctor's office.
Ian faced significant barriers—severe depression, a lack of job application experience, and doubts about his career path. These challenges were addressed through personalised support and strategic planning provided by the programme.
“I am overwhelmed with happiness and gratitude for this programme. I wish it had been available to me earlier in my recovery.
Ian's primary goals were to find a job, regain his self-belief, and improve his mental health. He was motivated by a strong desire to get better, achieve financial independence, and engage productively with his time. To help Ian move closer to the labour market, the programme provided comprehensive support:
- Confidence and Self-Esteem Building: Weekly one-on-one sessions over three months and eight group sessions focused on boosting Ian’s confidence.
- Understanding Mental Health: Tailored strategies to help Ian manage his mental health issues and develop coping mechanisms.
- Practical Job-Seeking Skills: Assistance with CV creation, interview skills, and mock interviews.
- Specialist Support: Referral to Routes to Work partners for additional support and retraining.
- Personal Development: Programmes on goal setting, resilience, anxiety management, and habit building.
- Mental Health Support: Enrolment in a meditation programme to support his mental health.
“This program has changed the course of my life, and I believe I wouldn't be where I am today without it. I highly recommend this support to anyone in need."”
Despite initial setbacks and facing numerous rejections, Ian's perseverance and the continued support from his advisor paid off. After several one-on-one sessions focused on improving his interview skills (which had been identified as an area of improvement), Ian successfully interviewed for a position as a yard driver with Arnold Clark and was offered the job the following day.
The employer's feedback highlighted that Ian was “the best interview they ever had”.
Ian is now happily employed full-time, and his mental health has improved significantly. His commitment to attending both group sessions and one-on-one meetings, as well as regular meditation, has made a substantial positive impact on his well-being. Ian has regularly expressed overwhelming gratitude for the program.
Ian's journey with the SAMH Step Up program not only led to employment but also marked a profound improvement in his mental health. Initially plagued by low self-esteem and uncertainty, Ian's dedication to the programme's strategies and his commitment to meditation sessions have transformed his outlook. His family, including his wife, children, grandchildren, and friends, have all noticed a remarkable change.
His wife shared, "I feel like I have my old husband back.”
