For Norman, one idea has become a guiding principle in life:
"Don't be scared to get hurt."
It's a lesson he has learned through his experiences and one he continues to put into practice while attending Flourish Australia's Liverpool service.
Norman says support from the team has encouraged him to think about what is possible for his future.
"My support worker Rabi said to me that I can improve my life, through study, through getting a job and becoming independent."
Inspired by that encouragement, Norman is currently studying a Certificate IV in Library and Information Services at TAFE Ultimo. He enjoys learning and appreciates the support available to students with psychosocial and other disabilities.
Norman came to Australia from Vietnam when he was 12 years old to live with his aunty. Cantonese is his first language, and he attended an Intensive English Centre after arriving in Australia.
Today, he reflects with pride on how far he has come.
"After many years of hard work, I can at last express myself in English," he says.
Over more than 30 years living with his aunty, Norman watched her work hard and overcome life's challenges.
"She worked very hard and she is an inspiration to me. She was such a blessing in my life."
After his aunty passed away, Norman began living on his own and learned the importance of developing routines and staying on top of day-to-day responsibilities.
"Don't put it off. Do it now while you have the chance," he says. "You never know what other challenges you might have tomorrow."
He believes the same approach applies to study and to life more broadly. Norman also values long-term relationships and the people who support him, including staff at Flowerdale Cottage. He is particularly grateful to Rabi and Carla, who have encouraged him along the way.
When things become difficult, Norman relies on a range of strategies that work for him. Music, walking, being punctual and taking action all help him stay focused and moving forward.
"When I am in depression, I have a strategy," he says. "Firstly, I take action. I know that it is better to do anything than nothing."
Above all, Norman tries to maintain a positive outlook.
"I prefer a 'glass half full' frame of mind," he says. "Whatever happens to you, good or bad, see it as a blessing."
For Norman, recovery is not about standing still. It's about opening the door to new opportunities, continuing to learn and taking action, one step at a time.
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