Question

Patrick is the primary carer for Sebastian, a young man who has complex care needs which are extremely time consuming. He needs full time supervision, medication management and must be turned in bed several times a night. Pahalk is a family support worker who initially created an individual support plan for Sebastian and now provides ongoing support to the family. Patrick meets with Pahalk to talk about how the family is coping at present. Patrick tells Pahalk that he is finding the caring responsibilities challenging and that sometimes he gets very cross and angry. He explains that there have been times when he has left Sebastian unattended to go to the pub nearby and play the pokies. He explains that he does not gamble a lot but that it just gives him a short break and some relief from the demands of caring. Pahalk asks what happens when he feels angry at home and Patrick tells him that one day last week he had found himself thinking about hurting Sebastian. He did not hurt Sebastian, but felt extremely ashamed of himself afterwards for even considering it. Patrick then breaks down and tells Pahalk that he is worried about whether he should continue caring for Sebastian at all. Pahalk provides care and reassurance and asks Patrick if he thinks it is still a possibility that he might try to harm Sebastian. Patrick tells Pahalk that he is worried every day that he might do something bad to Sebastian and that he does not know what to do. He asks Pahalk to promise not to tell anyone about what he has said.

a. What are the issues that may impact on patrick’s physical and emotional health and wellbeing?

Answer 1

Patrick's physical and emotional health and wellbeing may be impacted by the challenging nature of caring for Sebastian, feelings of anger and guilt, potential burnout, and the internal struggle regarding the safety of Sebastian.

Patrick's physical and emotional health and wellbeing face significant challenges due to the demanding nature of caring for Sebastian, who has complex needs requiring constant supervision and multiple care tasks. Patrick's admission of feeling angry and seeking relief through gambling suggests the potential for emotional strain and coping difficulties. The alarming revelation that he had contemplated harming Sebastian raises serious concerns about Patrick's mental and emotional state, indicating a risk of burnout and heightened emotional distress.

The internal struggle and daily worries about the possibility of harming Sebastian further contribute to Patrick's overall psychological strain. Pahalk's role in providing care and reassurance is crucial, but professional intervention and support may be necessary to address the complex issues impacting Patrick's wellbeing and ensure the safety of both Patrick and Sebastian.