Case study: Addressing Depression and Anxiety in a Retired Businessman
Contextualising the Patient
A 72-year-old retired businessman sought help from Orchestrate Health to manage severe depression and anxiety. After spending 40 years running the family business, he transitioned leadership to his son and entered retirement, only to face a growing sense of disconnection and lack of purpose. The passing of his wife shortly after retirement further exacerbated his mental health challenges. While his son and daughter-in-law made efforts to involve him in family life with their children, he struggled to leave the house and withdrew further into isolation, making it difficult for his family to connect with him.
The client’s long-standing depression had been inadequately managed. The client struggle with compliance of medication for his depression due to the side effects and he found engaging in therapy unhelpful. His son and daughter-in-law – concerned about the severity of his condition and its impact on family life – facilitated his introduction to Orchestrate Health.
Presenting Challenges
The client’s depression and anxiety had become increasingly severe, leading to persistent low mood and lack of motivation. He struggled to find a reason to engage in daily life with difficulty sleeping, and significant social withdrawal. Avoidance behaviours, particularly his reluctance to leave the house reenforced his isolation.
This impacted on his relationship with his family. His son and daughter-in-law found it difficult to involve him in family activities, and his grandchildren struggled to bond with him due to his absence from their lives. Given his presenting conditions the family chose Orchestrate Health to deliver an individualised treatment plan to address the challenges he was facing.
Tailored Treatment Plan
The initial stage of treatment started with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, confirming severe depression with associated anxiety. Psychological assessments highlighted the significant role of avoidance behaviours and unresolved grief in his condition. The Orchestrate Health clinical team worked collaboratively with the clients private GP throughout the process to ensure seamless care and treatment.
The client’s primary goals were to alleviate depressive symptoms, regain a sense of purpose, and reconnect with his family; particularly his grandchildren. He also aspired to overcome his challenges in leaving the house and engaging in meaningful activities.
A psychiatrist of a similar age provided empathetic medication management, while a psychotherapist focused on grief counselling and cognitive strategies to reduce avoidance behaviours. Complementary therapies included the introduction of a Flow tDCS headset; a non-invasive adjunct therapy that significantly reduced his depressive symptoms and boosted his motivation.
Treatment was delivered at home, with clinicians visiting regularly to establish strong therapeutic relationships and routine. Over time, the client participated in gradual exposure therapy, which gently encouraged him to leave the house for selected activities.
Privacy and Discretion
Respecting the client’s need for confidentiality, Orchestrate Health ensured clinicians maintained a low-profile during visits. Only immediate family members were aware of his treatment, preserving his social and familial image. This discretion allowed the client to focus on his recovery without fear of judgment or exposure.
Resolution and Progress
The client experienced a significant reduction in depressive symptoms, improved sleep patterns, and increased willingness to engage in family life. The Flow tDCS headset ended up contributing to significant enhancements to his mood and motivation. As his mental health improved, he began attending family gatherings and outings, forging stronger relationships with his grandchildren. Professionally, he re-engaged in legacy planning with his son, which gave him a renewed sense of purpose and pride.
Family involvement was integral to the client’s recovery. Orchestrate Health educated his son and daughter-in-law on supporting his progress, creating a collaborative and understanding environment. This strengthened familial bonds and enhanced the overall success of his treatment.
Ongoing Care
Periodic reviews of the treatment plan ensured it remained effective and aligned with the client’s evolving needs. During emotionally challenging times care was intensified. Conversely, during periods of stability, sessions were reduced in frequency to accommodate his preferences.
The client transitioned to less intensive care, with biweekly check-ins from his psychiatrist and psychotherapist. And with ongoing use of the Flow tDCS headset – combined with therapeutic reviews – the continued management of his symptoms could be safeguarded.
Conclusion
By addressing his depression, anxiety, and feelings of grief through a tailored, at-home approach, Orchestrate Health provided the client with the tools to rebuild his life. His progress not only improved his mental health but also fostered a reconnection him with his family.