Shane has organised an appointment to come and speak to you as he needs some support. Shane's wife of 40 years, Kate, has recently been diagnosed with a terminal illness. Shane tells you that this news was devastating to hear, and it has really changed their lives. Shane shares with you that when Kate was first diagnosed six (6) weeks ago, they were able to go back home and live there until Kate's condition worsened three (3) weeks ago so now she is staying at the hospital full time. Shane shares with you that he has found this transition incredibly "difficult and scary" as Kate's health declined quickly and "everything has just happened so quickly, it's hard to comprehend everything". As Kate has been staying in the hospital, Shane has been sleeping at home by himself most nights. He tells you that he finds this very "lonely" as he just wants to sleep next to his wife again. Shane admits that he has been drinking more alcohol more often at nights to help him sleep. Shane tells you "We've been married for 40 years and for 40 years, she has been my best friend and the one person who I want to share life with. The thought of her not being here with me is terrifying, scary, and dreadful. I don't know if I would be able to do life without her."

Shane tells you that he has had difficulty going to his church, as he always went with Kate, so he has avoided going. Shane tells you that his "relationship with God is still strong" but he can't bring himself to go to church. Shane explains to you that he feels helpless because he is not able to help his wife. "I wish there was more that I could do for her. I wish I could make everything okay and we could go back to how our lives were before. I just want things to get better, but I know it won't. It's hard to accept that this is it." Shane shares with you that his diet and sleep have been affected with the news of his wife's diagnosis and he has stopped looking after his own health. "I feel like it is more important to look after my wife and her needs than acknowledge my own at the moment." Shane explains to you how scared he is about losing his wife and that he is not ready to be alone.

*A suicide risk assessment was completed by intake officers. No Suicidal ideation, plan or means identified.

Demonstrate your ability to respond effectively to at least three (3) diverse situations of loss, grief, bereavement or trauma. This will involve using skills that include:

Empathic listening skills

Verbal and non-verbal techniques

Providing information clearly and sensitively

Obtaining feedback to confirm understanding.

Following policies and procedures