After years of living on 12-month leases Shaun is finally feeling settled at the Haven Foundation’s housing with support residence in Pakenham (Victoria).
The 40-year-old spent a number of years moving between housing services, but he was never able to feel at home because of the impermanent tenancy arrangements.
“I moved around a bit before, but I always thought of it as a new adventure,” he said.
“It was quite unsettling at some points, but now that I’m here at Haven I don’t have to worry about moving or finding a new place to live.”
Shaun moved into Haven Pakenham in December 2023. Haven residences provide safe, secure and long-term housing for people experiencing mental health challenges, with support from qualified and experienced mental health practitioners.
Mind promotes a sense of community in its housing services to encourage residents to share and support each other, including taking part in group activities.
Shaun says living in this community environment has been a “fantastic experience”.
“I can get a bit lonely at times but here I can come outside my unit into the communal area and chat with other residents and the staff,” he said.
“We have different groups going every day; cooking group, reading group or the Haven hang, where we discuss what the Haven needs and chat about what’s happening here.”
Like many people experiencing mental health challenges, Shaun has good days and bad days, but he takes great comfort in knowing that support is always available at Haven.
“There are still situations where I get overwhelmed, but I have that support now,” he said.
“The staff are very good. They stay throughout the night and if you need their assistance they are there. It’s great just knowing they are around for a chat or to go for a walk.
“I’ve been in hospital quite a few times for a few years while I’ve suffered. But now since living at Haven I don’t have hospital visits anymore.”
Shaun says he is aiming to get a part-time job, preferably something outdoors, so he can meet new people.
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.
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Two or three years ago, John’s teenage daughter Celine’s* mental health spiralled. She started to disengage at school and home and, struggling to connect with others, began using alcohol and recreational drugs as a coping mechanism.
Now 19, Celine has multiple diagnoses, including autism and anxiety, as well as her issues with alcohol and recreational drugs.
Ella* says she feels more hopeful for the future after accessing support from a Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub.
Alex says a stay at the Bidi Wungen Kaat Centre in Victoria Park (Western Australia) has kick-started his mental health recovery journey and helped him picture a brighter future.
