Adam says living at a Haven residence has helped him improve his social skills and his mental wellbeing.
The 46-year-old lives at Haven Geelong – an integrated social housing and support service for people experiencing significant mental health and wellbeing challenges.
Adam, who has a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder and Asperger’s Syndrome, moved into The Haven Foundation residence two years ago, and he says his wellbeing has gradually improved over time.
“I wasn’t in a good frame of mind when I moved in but I’ve been getting better each day that goes by,” he said.
“There are a few hiccups every now and then but I keep working on it.
“Haven has been good for my mental health; the staff here are good and they help me with things like medication and being organised.”
Haven Foundation residences foster a sense of community to create an environment that is homely, safe and conducive to mental health recovery.
Each Haven resident lives in their own private apartment, but the residences have indoor and outdoor communal areas where residents and staff get together and participate in recreational groups.
These groups help residents learn life skills, like confidence and connection with others, to help build a healthy and independent lifestyle.
Through the garden and music groups at Haven Geelong Adam has been able to overcome his social anxiety and make a valuable contribution to the residence.
“Sometimes I play guitar for the other residents. I used to get nervous, and I struggled talking to others and being social, but playing music is a nice way to just hang out with others,” he said.
“I also like gardening because it keeps me busy and I feel like I’m giving back to the community. I helped build the veggie garden here.”
Adam is now working at a local nursery and he continues to make great strides on his recovery journey.
His positive outcomes are consistent with recent progress reports from a four-year independent evaluation of Haven by La Trobe University. These reports indicate that Havens are helping residences experience:
- a reduction in mental distress
- improved self-confidence and skills for independent living, and
- an enhanced sense of connection, empowerment and hope.
About Mind Australia and The Haven Foundation
Mind Australia supports people experiencing mental health and wellbeing concerns to find help, hope and purpose in their lives.
We partner with health, community, and government organisations to provide holistic support and a safe environment for people experiencing mental health and wellbeing concerns to live in the community.
Mind is one of the leading specialist community housing providers in Australia for people experiencing a psychosocial disability.
Haven residences have operated in Victoria since 2011. There are currently seven residences providing a home, stability and support to more than 100 people in Victoria, with more in development.
Haven residences provide high quality, long-term housing with specialised 24/7 mental health support from Mind to help people live life to the fullest. This integrated social housing and support service is a partnership between Mind and The Haven Foundation – a subsidiary of Mind.
If you would like more information about Mind services, contact us by submitting a form via Mind Connect or phone: 1300 286 463.
If this article raises concerns for you, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islanders can also call 13 YARN (13 92 76) a 24/7 national crisis support telephone service staffed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
If you would like more information, please contact us.
1300 286 463
[email protected]
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Adam says living at a Haven residence has helped him improve his social skills and his mental wellbeing.
