INTRODUCTION

The impact of familial loss and change can deeply affect a young person’s mental health, leaving them struggling to process their emotions and adjust to new realities. At NIDAS, we recognise that such experiences require compassionate, tailored support to help individuals navigate their grief, rebuild their sense of self, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

This case study explores the journey of Louise, a 13-year-old referred to NIDAS by her mother due to concerns about her mental health, self-harm, and difficulties coping with the loss of her father. Through therapeutic support, Louise was given a safe space to process her emotions, understand her experiences, and reclaim her confidence. By combining creative expression, open dialogue, and family involvement, NIDAS helped Louise move from a place of internalised pain to one of resilience and hope.

*Please note: names have been changed to protect client identities

Sessions focused on:

• Processing grief and loss
• Understanding changes in family dynamics
• Developing healthy coping strategies for self-harm and suicidal ideation
• Managing anxiety and panic attacks
• Strengthening self-expression and emotional resilience

ENGAGEMENT AND SUPPORT

Processing Grief   and Loss

Louise’s sessions began with a focus on understanding and processing the loss of her father, who had left the family home. She struggled with conflicting emotions—anger, sadness, and confusion—about his departure and the changes in her life. Through reflective discussions and creative exercises, Louise explored these feelings in a safe, non-judgmental space. Art therapy became a powerful tool for her to externalise her “messy” emotions, allowing her to untangle years of suppressed feelings.

Understanding Family Changes

Louise grappled with the disparity between her idealised memories of her family and her current reality. She internalised these struggles, which contributed to her anxiety and self-harm. In therapy, she examined her relationships with both parents, reflecting on how these dynamics had shifted. By openly discussing her family’s history and creatively expressing her emotions, Louise gained clarity about her past and present, helping her reconcile her feelings and reduce her distress.

Healthy Coping Strategies

A key focus of Louise’s sessions was developing alternatives to self-harm as a way of managing overwhelming emotions. She learned grounding techniques for panic attacks and explored healthier outlets for her anxiety, such as journaling and art. Safety planning was also introduced, helping Louise identify triggers and trusted individuals she could turn to for support.

Rebuilding Confidence and Resilience

As Louise processed her experiences, she began to recognise her own strength and ability to cope. Therapy empowered her to make choices about her healing journey, boosting her confidence. She gradually shifted from being stuck in the past to embracing her present and future with greater optimism.

Support for Mum

Recognising the importance of family involvement, NIDAS included Louise’s mother in key sessions. This provided Mum with insights into Louise’s struggles and equipped her with tools to support her daughter at home. Family discussions fostered open communication, helping them rebuild their relationship and implement positive changes together.

OUTCOMES

Through self-exploration and creative expression, Louise processed her grief and developed healthier ways to manage her emotions. Outcome measures showed significant progress:

 

Positive changes were also evident in Louise’s:

• Happiness
• Relationships (especially with her Mum)
• Attainment at school
• Emotional wellbeing
• Ability to cope with fears

 

NEED TO MAKE A REFERRAL?

You can request a referral form by contacting us directly by calling at 01623 683 250 or emailing at [email protected])

Telephone: 01623 683 250
(Monday – Thursday 9:00am – 5:00pm and Friday 9:00am – 4:30pm)