adapting treatment for mental health patients

[Midnight_Song]

Hi all,

I am wondering how I should go about treating someone with mental illness. This person has bipolar, but seems to be managing it quite well. I have met her a few times on a friendly basis as she is a friend of a friend. I mentioned I had passed my Reflexology exam but hadn't really moved forward with it yet, and she was interested in me treating her.

How much information do you give to someone with mental health issues? As I know from experience with different people they can worry a lot about things they are told. Should I keep it as light as possible both pressure wise and discussion after? I think I've kind of answered myself! Like to know your experiences though and what you recommend.

How many of you have treated people with mental health issues? I know in training it was almost a no-no, but surely they can benefit too. Obviously if you knew someone to very unstable and unpredictable you would use common sense..

Smooky.x

 

[Freddy P]

I would take your own excellent advise, Smooky and focus on giving a loving, gentle treatment that makes the client feel nurtured. I guess I would see it as creating a safe space for that person to enjoy feeling relaxed and cared for for an hour or so.

I used to find it wonderfully relaxing and just the benefits from being touched when you are experiencing mental health issues should never be underestimated. If you can help support the immune system and balance hormones / endocrine system in the process then that can only be positive for the person IM (unexperienced) O.

Amethyst x