Assertive Community Treatment: Jose

Jose has struggled to handle his mental illness for the past twenty years. He experiences psychotic symptoms, hearing voices, suffering from delusions and self-destructive temper. He used to abuse drugs and spent periods of time living on the streets. With help from an Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) team, Jose now manages his symptoms. Jose lives independently in an apartment with a roommate. He receives twelve hours of support per week in several locations. He used to need more support at work. Now he is able to manage his responsibilities independently. When he does need additional support, Jose knows whom to contact on his ACT team for assistance. Jose still receives some support from an ACT team member for maintaining his apartment. An ACT team member calls Jose every morning and evening by phone to remind him to take his medications. Although the support that Jose receives from the ACT team is decreasing, Jose will maintain these team member relationships as long as they are needed.

Jose has been hospitalized twice since he started working with the ACT team. In both situations, the ACT team worked with the hospital staff to help Jose during his crisis. When Jose left the hospital, the ACT team adjusted his supports to his current needs. Jose has maintained a job in the community for two years, the longest period of continued employment he has ever had.