Flourish Magazine - Winter 2024

A doorway to a new life

Having a safe place to live, someone to talk to and lean on is a privilege many take for granted. For Hugh and Jane, it was a vital stepping stone to recovery from mental health challenges.

At Avalon, they were able to have their own space in a self-contained home, in a group of units with other people who were facing similar issues.

HUGH

Now aged 32, Hugh came to Avalon through the help of his GP and a mental health worker.

For many weeks he wouldn’t even answer the door.

“When I first came here I was nocturnal. I’d just sleep all day. I’d be awake all night,” Hugh says.

“I couldn’t interact with anyone. I just needed my space. I just needed the space and grace, and just have a place to be.

“Eventually things changed, slowly.”

With the help of the onsite support provided by UnitingSA Mental Health team members, Hugh gradually became more confident, and was able to participate more in life.

“I started getting out for walks. I remember I went to the sea. Just getting out and sitting on one of the benches was a really, really important thing for me to try.

“At first, it was so difficult. Now I go walking every day.”

Staff at Avalon helped Hugh access NDIS supports, and he was also able to attend equine therapy, join a fishing group and develop cooking and gardening skills. He’s even learning how to play the cello.

He also learnt bell ringing skills, visiting Adelaide churches and learning how to ring each bell.

“Things have changed a lot for me since I’ve been here,” Hugh says. Today, he lives next door to Avalon in his own community housing unit, but he remains a regular visitor to the program.

JANE

Four years ago, Jane was in a mental health rehabilitation centre before coming to live at Avalon.

She says Avalon gave her an environment where help and support was always available.

“I liked the groups that we had, and that it was a very safe environment and very supportive,” Jane says.

“We were always encouraged to seek help. Anything we needed was taken care of.”

Jane also helped paint the iconic butterfly mural that marks the gateway into the Avalon site.

She spent 18 months at Avalon, getting the support she needed to get back on her feet, and today she also lives independently.

“It’s beautiful. I have a potted garden… I’m growing spinach and Brussels sprouts. Everything is growing really nicely.”

Jane also transitioned into the NDIS, and she goes hiking or kayaking each fortnight. An NDIS support worker takes her to a national park or garden, and she also does Reiki each week.

“The support from Avalon helped me… settle down my mental health,” Jane says.

“I’m feeling much stronger and more grounded.”