Breaking the Cycle at The Bay Now, more than ever, maintaining goodmental health is a key issue for even themost accomplished individuals. The pressures of a global pandemic, as well as the pace at which we live our lives, are having a significant effect on both short and long-term health, says psychologist David Godden, director of The Bay, one of Australia’s only private and personalised rehabilitation centres. “Many successful people are feeling overwhelmed and having difficultly functioning effectively,” he says. “It’s common to experience anxiety, depression and, in more extreme cases, suicidal thoughts, as well as to escalate addictive behaviours in an attempt to cope.” In these situations, he says, people can need extra support to maintain mental and physical health in the formof personalised, private treatment that is both immersive and addresses their complete lifestyle. Personalised, Private Treatment, A Case Study For Michael Jenkins*, a banking executive, using alcohol became a way to repress feelings of panic and despair after a recent divorce and downturn in business. A social drinker, he didn’t consider he had a problem until family members expressed concern. His own efforts to reduce drinking, and weekly therapy sessions, were unsuccessful. “I knew I needed to do something more but was concerned about colleagues knowing I was seeking support,” says Michael. “I chose The Bay because, after speaking to their team, I felt comfortable that my stay would be kept confidential and that I could manage my work schedule while I was there.” Like Sydney-based executive Catherine Lloyd*, who had suffered from mild depression for several years before a deterioration in mental health after a particularly stressful time at work, individualised, private treatment was key to recovery. “I had reached a point where I didn’t want to go on,” she says. “However, because I viewed anxiety and depression as a deeply personal experience, I didn’t see group therapy as an option.” Nor did she believe a weekly session with a therapist was enough to effect real change. The Bay uses a proven holistic treatment package that is tailored to the person, not one-size-fits all, to achieve measurable results. It combines Western, psychological, integrative, and medical practice with Eastern mindfulness techniques. Says Catherine: “From the beginning, I felt listened to and cared for as an individual. When I initially spoke to the psychologist on the phone, I actually started sobbing because I was able to tell them how it had been for me and they understood.” Recovery in a Pristine, Luxury Environment For both Michael and Catherine, recovery included a wide range of somatic therapies as well as daily sessions with a psychologist in their own private residence and care available 24/7. These included acupuncture, massage, personal training, and equine therapy. Located in the pristine Byron Shire region, The Bay also offers clients rainforest and beach walks, horse-riding, deep sea fishing, tennis and golf, alongside its integrative medical program. To boost recovery and improve lifelong health, every client has a personal chef who prepares healing organic meals using local produce and assists them to continue nutritious eating at home. Michael says he was surprised how effective equine therapy was at helping him express his emotions, while he found the nutrition coaching had a significant impact on his energy and lifestyle. For Catherine, massage and yoga brought the calm she needed, while acupuncture assisted her with sleep. “I also developed a meditation practice that I was able to continue when I returned home.” Continued Support to StayWell All clients of The Bay are offered continued psychological support after their stay, something that distinguishes it from other, less inclusive offerings. The team alsoworks with clients’ own healthcare professionals to provide continuous care. “That was a very important part of my choice of treatment, because I knewmy transition back into the world would be supported,” says Catherine. Even in a stressful world, she says so much has changed. “I have gone from not wanting to be here, to being really grateful to be alive. I mean, I’m still human, but I can pull myself back from anxiety and trust that I can manage strong emotions. Being in a private, residential setting, with no other patients and no other decisions to make, allowed me to completely let go, develop my own resources and discover my inner resilience. The Bay really did change my life.” Michael says his relationships have shifted dramatically, while he is able to manage business challenges without the prop of alcohol. “I was a difficult person to live and work with, always expecting things to be done my way,” he says. “I’m learning to be kinder to myself and I have been able to extend that to others.” Godden has worked in mental health, including drug and alcohol rehabilitation, for more than two decades, gaining a reputation for excellence for his work in both hospitals and private treatment centres. He says The Bay, which has offered successful treatment in mental health and addiction for 15 years, is a genuine alternative to private hospitals for discerning clients who want to break the cycle and recover their health and relationships. * Names have been changed to protect privacy Company: The Bay Name: David Godden Email: [email protected] For confidential enquiries email: [email protected] Web Address: www.thebay.com.au Address: 1/12 Tasman Way Byron Bay Telephone: 0437-966-457
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