Stephanie is a Bendigo local living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a mental health condition that affects her ability to cope with stress, which in turn restricts her ability to work at full capacity.
Her condition poses issues with time management, as she checks the time with such frequency that she is often late for scheduled activities.
As a result, Stephanie experiences depression and anxiety, which means that she requires extra support from people around her to help cope with the day to day. However, Stephanie finds it stressful being around people, which contributes to her anxiety.
Stephanie commenced with atWork Australia in Bendigo and met Pam, her Disability Employment Service’s Job Coach. Together, Pam and Stephanie explored the various employment options available that would suit her specific circumstances.
Stephanie didn’t have a lot of confidence in herself. She had worked at a retail clothing store but unfortunately due to her performance, she found her hours were cut. Due to her OCD condition, Stephanie struggled with customer contact, especially working at the payment counter. She found her anxiety levels would elevate.
With this in mind, Pam directed the job search efforts toward positions where Stephanie could work in a job without direct customer contact. Pam updated her resume, constructed a strong cover letter, provided work-wear and before too long, Stephanie was offered a job as a cleaner.
Stephanie has been employed for almost a year but at times struggles with issues that arise in the workplace. But with atWork Australia’s on the job support, such as having the ability to call her Job Coach for support while she’s working, the intensity of Stephanie’s health concerns is often alleviated.
This much needed support has assisted Stephanie in sustaining her position and regardless of the difficulties faced during COVID-19, Stephanie’s ability to cope with stress has vastly improved. She is stronger and has the tenacity to keep going.
Stephanie had never thought of cleaning and displayed reluctance but with encouragement and reassurance, she was willing to give it a go.
To further support Stephanie with her anxiety, Pam regularly speaks with the employer to reaffirm that Stephanie has good ongoing support. With this type of combined effort and assistance, in addition to good communication between all stakeholders, Stephanie’s future is bright and she is looking forward to continued success in her job.
“Stephanie puts in 100% at work and her employer is very happy with the standard of work she produces. I admire how hard she tries,” says Job Coach Pam.
Stephanie remarked, “I am happy to continue to do the cleaning. I enjoy it”.
Thousands of people with a disability, injury or health condition have found meaningful work through atWork Australia. To see how we can help you or someone you know find meaningful work, call 1300 080 856 or enquire online today.