Helping someone with social anxiety to build their confidence

Actions and outcomes

We received a request for support from an individual who had been in their house and not spoken to anyone outside of their immediate family for a number of years due to social anxiety.

 

To begin with they struggled to engage, which built to one-word answers over the telephone. The individual received 1:1 post diagnostic support which built enough confidence for them to join the Virtual Post Diagnostic Course with other autistic adults.

 

By the end, the individual felt able to actively participate in the course. They then received 1:1 support with social communication strategies which has seen their confidence and social communication skills grow week on week. The individual has now felt able to hire a PA to support them into the community.

Feedback

The individual commented: “You have been the only service that has tried to help me or shown any interest in me in years. You have all been so understanding. I felt safe and able to speak in the Post Diagnostic Group.”

Lessons Learned

This case demonstrates that for some individuals, you need to take that extra time building a rapport to enable them to engage. Time, effort and understanding can create life changing outcomes for an individual.

Information

Health Board:
Swansea Bay University Health Board
n/a
Integrated Autism Service:
Western Bay IAS
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