Hi everyone. I’m seeking advice on behalf of my sister, who is 25 and has been diagnosed with complex PTSD, severe anxiety, and ADHD. Despite extensive treatments over the past three years, including a two-month stay in a psychiatric facility, she continues to struggle with day-to-day tasks and maintaining employment. Her psychiatrist has recently suggested considering NDIS to support her ongoing care needs. We understand that her condition might be viewed as not sufficiently stabilized for NDIS eligibility. Does anyone have experience with applying for NDIS with a relatively short treatment history? What types of support have been most beneficial, especially regarding mental health support coordination?
To qualify for the NDIS, it’s essential to show that the disability is permanent and significantly impacts daily functioning. If her psychiatrist is supportive, that’s a good start. Ensure that you have comprehensive documentation detailing how her conditions affect her functional capacity across various life domains. This documentation is critical for demonstrating the necessity for ongoing support.
I would suggest gathering as much evidence as possible from her mental health professionals about the persistent and significant impact of her conditions on her daily life. This could strengthen her case. If the initial application doesn’t go through, don’t be discouraged appeals can be effective, especially with additional detailed evidence or a revised support strategy.
Thanks for the insights! We will work on compiling a detailed application with her healthcare team to ensure we present a strong case for her needs.
Hi there,
I’m sorry to hear about the challenges your sister has been facing. It’s understandable that you’re looking for the best way to support her, and considering the NDIS is a positive step.
A Behavior Support Practitioner could be incredibly helpful for your sister, especially given her complex PTSD, severe anxiety, and ADHD. Even if her condition is still stabilising, a Behavior Support Practitioner can work with her to develop strategies that address the specific behaviors and challenges that are impacting her daily life and ability to maintain employment. This type of support can be tailored to her unique needs, helping her build routines, manage anxiety, and develop coping strategies that can make day-to-day tasks more manageable.
In terms of applying for the NDIS, even with a relatively short treatment history, it’s important to focus on how her conditions significantly impact her functional capacity and daily living. Detailed reports from her psychiatrist and any other healthcare providers, such as her occupational therapist or psychologist, can be crucial in demonstrating her need for ongoing support.
In addition to Behavior Support, Mental Health Support Coordination could also be highly beneficial. A Support Coordinator can help navigate the NDIS, connect your sister with appropriate services, and ensure her plan is utilized effectively to meet her goals. They can also assist in coordinating her care across different providers, making sure all aspects of her mental health are addressed in a cohesive way.
If you decide to apply for the NDIS, gathering comprehensive documentation and focusing on the functional impact of her conditions will be key. I’d recommend reaching out to an NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to discuss her situation in more detail and get guidance on the application process.
Wishing you and your sister the best as you explore these options. If you have any more questions or need further advice, feel free to reach out.
4 Likes
Hey mzjessierose,
Thanks a ton for jumping in with your insights. It’s been a bit since my initial post and a lot has happened! We followed some early advice and managed to get my sister assessed for NDIS. It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster, figuring out the right supports and getting everything lined up. Your suggestions about Behavior Support Practitioners seem like just what she might need now, especially with the ongoing challenges of managing her anxiety and sticking to routines.
Since we’re exploring this option, I’m curious about something, how would a Behaviour Support Practitioner use technology or innovative methods to help with anxiety and ADHD? Are there specific tools or apps that have been effective in your experience?
Really grateful for your detailed input here, and I might reach out soon to get some more of your advice on figuring out the next steps.
Cosmic! It surely has been a while. I hope you and your sister have been well 
That’s fantastic news that you managed to get your sister assessed. I’m just making an assumption here, but it seems like she was approved for a plan based on the positive vibes of your response?
I second this.
We’re very fortunate that someone like Jessie has decided to join and respond so thoughtfully to so many different people in need in our community in such a short period (and at 4am in the morning no less 
. That’s dedication.).
People like Jessie are exactly the reason I wanted to invite providers to the platform, because they have such a deep knowledge in their respective fields. As such, they provide more depth and quality in their answers than I could ever dream of.
So on behalf of everyone here Jessie, thankyou
1 Like
100%, what a quality response. Our community just got better.
Keep us posted on what you find out. If you decide to try any tools or apps, I’d love to hear how they work out for your sister!
Interested in what @mzjessierose has to say about using technology like VR possibly to help with anxiety. I’ve done a little reading about it and was considering trialling it for myself.
Thanks so much for the update! I’m glad to hear your sister was able to get assessed for NDIS, though I can imagine the process has been a bit of a rollercoaster. It’s great that you’re considering a Behavior Support Practitioner to help with her anxiety and routines—these professionals can make a big difference.
Regarding your question, a Behavior Support Practitioner can indeed use technology and innovative methods to support individuals with anxiety and ADHD. There are several tools and apps that have been particularly effective:
~Mindfulness and Meditation Apps: Apps like Headspace and Calm offer guided meditation and breathing exercises tailored for anxiety and focus, which can be beneficial for managing ADHD as well.
~Task Management and Organization Tools: Todoist and Trello are great for helping with time management and breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable steps. This can be especially helpful for someone with ADHD who struggles with organization.
~Behavior Tracking Apps: Tools like CBT Thought Diary enable tracking of thoughts, behaviors, and moods, using cognitive-behavioral techniques that can help challenge negative thinking patterns associated with anxiety.
~Focus and Productivity Tools: Apps like Forest gamify the process of avoiding distractions, and Focus@Will provides background music designed to improve concentration, both of which are useful for those with ADHD.
~ Telehealth and Virtual Support: Regular check-ins via telehealth platforms can provide ongoing support and adjust strategies as needed, making it easier to manage anxiety and ADHD symptoms.
~Biofeedback Devices: Devices like Muse offer real-time feedback on brain activity during meditation, helping improve focus and relaxation techniques.
These tools and methods can be tailored to fit your sister’s unique needs, making them a valuable part of her support plan. I hope this gives you a better idea of what’s possible!