Empowering Recovery Through Home-Based Care for Anxiety and Agoraphobia

Background

Client: Female, 30 years old
Diagnosis: Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) with Agoraphobia
Setting: Home-based care

Duration: 18 months

Primary Goals:

• Reduce anxiety symptoms
• Increase sense of safety and autonomy
• Foster social engagement within the home environment
• Build trust and emotional resilience through consistent companionship

Challenges

• Severe anxiety triggered by unfamiliar environments and social settings
• Inability to leave the house without experiencing panic attacks
• Feelings of isolation and helplessness
• Previous unsuccessful attempts at outpatient therapy due to lack of continuity and overwhelming transitions

Intervention Strategy

1. Personalised Home-Based Care Plan

A tailored care plan was developed in collaboration with a mental health professional, focusing on:

• Daily routines to create structure and predictability
• Gentle exposure to anxiety triggers within the safety of the home
• Regular mental health check-ins via telehealth

2. Consistent Companionship

A dedicated care companion was introduced, providing:

• Daily emotional support and conversation
• Shared activities such as cooking, art, and mindfulness exercises
• A stable, non-judgmental presence that fostered trust and emotional safety

3. Continuity of Care

• The same caregiver was assigned throughout the care period, eliminating the stress of new introductions
• Weekly progress reviews ensured the care plan evolved with her needs
• Family members were included in care discussions to maintain a supportive network

Outcomes

Emotional and Psychological Improvements

• Reduction in panic episodes by 70% over 12 months
• Improved sleep and appetite due to reduced baseline anxiety
• Increased self-confidence in managing daily tasks independently

Social and Functional Gains

• Initiated video calls with extended family and friends
• Participated in online support groups with caregiver encouragement
• Began stepping outside into the garden with support, marking a major milestone

Quality of Life

• Reported feeling “safe, seen, and supported”
• Expressed interest in pursuing remote work opportunities
• Reconnected with hobbies like painting and journaling

Key Success Factors

• Companionship: The emotional bond with a consistent caregiver was central to her progress. It provided a sense of belonging and reduced the fear of judgment.
• Continuity: Familiarity and routine helped reduce anticipatory anxiety and built a foundation of trust.
• Home Environment: Being in a safe, controlled space allowed for gradual exposure and healing without overwhelming stimuli.