Hayden's story

As a builder, Hayden* was a very active person, but when he noticed his mobility was starting to deteriorate, he decided to study to become a draftsman. However the change in career didn’t provide the solution to all his problems. Hayden began experiencing low mood, anxiety, and feelings of worthlessness as a result of his declining health.

After discussing his symptoms with a doctor and undergoing some tests, Hayden was diagnosed with both rheumatoid arthritis and hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies – a condition that affects the nerves.

His condition causes impaired mobility, chronic pain and numbness – particularly in his legs and feet. He was also feeling down and depressed most days.

Wanting to fully understand his diagnosis, get a second opinion, and improve his mental health, Hayden booked sessions with the Expert Medical Opinion and the Mental Health Navigator services available through Vivo.  

A mental health nurse met with Hayden via video, evaluated his symptoms and scheduled a comprehensive telehealth assessments with a consultant psychiatrist and a clinical psychologist.

After these expert assessments, both mental health clinicians wrote a detailed report outlining Hayden’s history, symptoms and treatment recommendations.

Following this, Hayden was diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and anxiety – primarily caused by his pain and lifestyle changes.

The psychiatrist recommended commencement of duloxetine (for its antidepressant and analgesic effect). He was also recommended to undertake Cognitive Behavioural Therapy with a psychologist, as well as learning mindfulness practices and strategies to manage his pain.

It was also recommended that Hayden follow up with his pain clinic and develop a coordinated approach to his care and treatment with his treating team. Hayden discussed the recommendations from the report with his doctor, and through his health insurance he was able to access a psychologist, as well as a physiotherapist who specialises in pain.

Hayden says that he felt positive and hopeful as soon as he started using these services. After three months, Hayden reported feeling much better. His pain had reduced significantly, and his symptoms of depression and anxiety had also improved.

He’s had eight sessions with a clinical psychologist and says it's been a ‘game changer’. His psychologist read the Mental Health Navigator report and was incredibly pleased she could commence treatment immediately as she had all of Hayden’s relevant history outlined.

Hayden also decided not to use medication – thanks to the new strategies he’s developed to change his mindset and put his pain in the “back seat of the bus”.

“[The team] listened, sympathised, and put me in contact fast with professionals who seemed invested in finding some answers – then steered me in a direction to ask the right questions of the right people in the health system so I can make the best of my situation,” says Hayden.

“I can't recommend this service enough if you're looking for answers or need someone in your corner while improving your overall health.”

_{*Names have been changed to protect privacy.}

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