Claire is learning to put herself first

For almost three decades, Claire dedicated her career to caring for others through her work in the NHS. Behind the scenes, however, she was carrying the weight of multiple life challenges that eventually began to affect both her wellbeing and her ability to stay in work. 

Following the loss of both her parents, Claire found herself managing the practical and emotional impact of bereavement alongside difficult family circumstances, pressures at work and the effects of menopause. Over time, everything became overwhelming. 

"Prior to accessing Able Futures I felt life couldn't get any worse both at home and in work and was dealing badly with several life stressors." 

As her mental health declined, Claire struggled to see a way forward.  

"My ability to stay in work and overall wellbeing was affected badly and I was absent from work a total of nearly 10 months. I just felt broken and didn't know what to do and couldn't see a way through. I was in a hole and couldn't get out." 

Looking for support, Claire came across Able Futures through her employer's occupational health intranet page. Able Futures is led by Ingeus and delivers the Access to Work Mental Health Support Service on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions, providing confidential, no-cost mental health support to people who are employed, self-employed or on an apprenticeship. 

She was introduced to Able Futures Mental Health Coach, Tanika, and began regular telephone sessions over a nine-month period. 

From the outset, Claire felt she had found someone who genuinely listened. 

"Tanika! Where do I start!? She is just a beautiful soul with a very calming voice who truly listened to me." 

Together, they explored practical ways to manage stress, burnout, anxiety and low self-esteem, while building coping strategies to help Claire navigate challenges both inside and outside of work. 

During their sessions, Tanika introduced Claire to tools and techniques, including relaxation exercises, journalling, positive affirmations and ways to challenge anxious thoughts. 

"I started to think differently quite quickly and especially liked the 'chimp paradox' and 'circles of control'." 

According to Tanika, learning to recognise "what she could control, what she could influence and what she simply had to accept" helped Claire reduce feelings of helplessness and regain a greater sense of control over her life. 

As Claire's confidence grew, she felt better equipped to deal with workplace challenges. Tanika helped her prepare for sickness absence reviews, discuss workplace adjustments and explore practical support to make returning to work feel more manageable. 

"She suggested questions for me to ask or how to talk about reasonable adjustments and getting a Health Passport." 

Although the programme was designed to support Claire in work, its impact reached far beyond the workplace. Over time, Claire began to notice significant changes in both her confidence and outlook. 

"I feel I am a different person to how I was a year ago. I have gained more confidence and starting to like myself again. I am going out with friends and thinking about me for a change." 

One of the biggest milestones in Claire's journey was returning to work. After nearly ten months away, she successfully resumed her role and moved to a different department where she felt happier and better able to manage the demands of work. 

"I returned to work 4 months ago and I’m pleased I made that decision. Tanika was influential in that choice." 

Outside of work, Claire has continued making positive changes, prioritising experiences that bring her joy and looking ahead to a brighter future. 

"I went on holiday with just my daughters and have got another girls break booked in Sept, which I have never done! I am looking to find my own house and move on from the negativity in my life." 

Reflecting on her journey, Claire believes the support she received through Able Futures has had a lasting impact on her confidence, resilience and ability to move forward. 

"Tanika has been instrumental in changing my way of thinking and I can’t thank her enough for that." 

For Tanika, Claire's story is a powerful reminder that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. 

"No matter how stuck someone may feel, there is always the possibility of positive change." 

Learn more about what support Able Futures can offer.