Supporting Recovery

We recognise that whānau, friends, or support people can be important. Coming to Ashburn means joining a Democratic Therapeutic Community to recover and build resilience. As a whānau, understanding the journey they will be taking will help to guide your support. 

Patient Leave

When it becomes appropriate for treatment, a patient may be granted leave. The type and conditions of leave are assessed on a case-by-case basis; discussed within the appropriate therapy groups and arranged in consultation with the clinical team. In some cases, patients may not be able to complete, or even take, the full leave arranged. Although it is difficult not to have raised expectations, whānau should understand that in arranging and taking leave, the patient is making significant progress in their recovery. If whānau have any questions or concerns about hosting a patient on leave, they should contact the clinical staff via reception on 03 476 2092.

Preparing for Discharge

When a patient is ready for discharge from Ashburn, they will hopefully have shown resilience in their recovery. On discharge, duty of care will be passed from Ashburn to an appropriate medical provider. In many cases this will be the patient’s GP. During their time at Ashburn, the patient will hopefully have developed the skills and knowledge necessary to overcome previous challenges and to maintain good mental health. Potential triggers to the person relapsing will have been identified. If appropriate, these will have been discussed in the family meeting, with the aim of whānau supporting recovery by mitigating triggers. Also discussed should be any healthy habits or activities that the person recognises as aiding their recovery.

Supporting Long-term Recovery

Whānau can make a significant difference to the success of maintaining recovery. On discharge from Ashburn, a person will hopefully have developed skills and knowledge necessary to maintain their recovery. This will include an Early Warning Signs Summary that they may elect to share with support people. Whānau may also have learned a great deal about the patient’s treatment journey and so may be able to assist in mitigating potential triggers and avoiding relapse.