Consumer burnout
Consumer burnout is an important issue. Case managers observe clients expressing discouragement, no shows, medication non-compliance and drop-out rates from programs. It is unrealistic to expect that an individual would want to participate in programs and services unless there are signs of progress and understanding of how participation relates to the individual’s goals.
Consumers with SPMI can be particularly susceptible to consumer burnout given the long history of treatment that many have experienced, lives of poverty, fragmentation of and size of system bureacracies, and the perception that they may feel no better off now compared to a previous point in their lives.
Suggestions to decrease burnout. Briefly postpone some goals and efforts. Incorporate small steps. Establish some measurable goals which can be accomplished quickly to emphasize progress made. Coordinate positive communication with the client and resource/services providers to review and revise goals and expectations. Offer hope and encouragement.