Reference no: EM133524661

Case Study - Amandi

You are the social worker at a neighbourhood centre in Drakeford, a small rural town in Western NSW. A referral has been received from the local medical centre regarding Amandi. Amandi and her son, Issan, came to Australia from Bhutan 10 years ago.

Amandi is a 70-year-old woman and carer of her son, Issan, aged 45 years. Issan has experienced mental health issues since he was a teenager, particularly anxiety and depression. His father died suddenly when Issan was 10 years of age. Maintaining employment has been very challenging, and Issan is currently out of work. He had his first admission to a mental health inpatient facility five years ago. He has experienced several hospital admissions for mental health reasons.

Both Amandi and Issan are in receipt of Centrelink payments. They moved to Drakeford 3 years ago. Amandi was struggling financially renting in Sydney and decided to move out West so they could obtain more affordable housing. She thought it might be easier for Issan to find some employment, like working on a farm. While Issan tried part time gardening work, he has not been involved in any work for the last year and spends his time watching TV. He rarely leaves the house. Issan has never accepted that he has mental health issues and has refused supports. He does not receive any assistance through the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

Amandi attends her doctor for a follow up appointment. She had been feeling very tired, was experiencing shortness of breath, and dizziness. Recent blood tests showed she has anaemia. In addition to feeling unwell, she tells her doctor that she is becoming increasingly concerned about Issan's mental health and she doesn't know what to do. She called a crisis line only to be told that he doesn't meet the criteria for mandated treatment. Issan has started to do odd things. Last week he disconnected the smoke detectors in the house. Amandi is worried about leaving him alone. He is starting to argue with her about silly things, like the food she cooks. She admits that some nights she locks herself in her bedroom, just so she can fall asleep. She is feeling exhausted and is not sure she can cope anymore; she tells her doctor her own mental health and wellbeing is deteriorating. She consents to a referral to the local social worker.

Question: How can critical reflection enhance my social work practice with Amandi in the case study above?