For Tracey, recovery has meant rebuilding different parts of life one step at a time and discovering just how much independence can mean.
“There are so many different things you need to manage all at once when you rebuild your life, but now that I’ve had a taste of independence, I want more of it!”
Tracey describes reaching a point where mental health challenges and alcohol use had left life feeling out of control. With the right support, things began to change. Tracey has now been sober from drugs and alcohol, with two years since having a drink at the time of sharing this story. Attending Alcoholics Anonymous and building a supportive network of friends and family have been important parts of that journey.
Building a future through study and work
Feeling better and being sober has helped Tracey focus on new goals.
After completing a Certificate III in Individual Support at Wollongong TAFE, Tracey plans to continue studying Certificate IV in Ageing Support. Tracey is also volunteering at Warrigal to gain experience, with the longer-term goal of becoming a Peer Support Worker supporting older people in aged care.
It’s a goal that brings together Tracey’s studies, experience and desire to help others.
Finding support at New Outlook
Another important part of Tracey’s journey has been Flourish Australia’s New Outlook service in Wollongong.
Tracey self-referred to New Outlook with several goals, including working on anxiety and stress around TAFE assessments, creating a budget and savings goal, and getting help with an NDIS application.
Through New Outlook’s Commonwealth Psychosocial Support Program (CPS), Tracey received one-to-one support from Peer Worker Charlotte, including assistance with NDIS paperwork. Tracey says the resulting NDIS package now meets their needs.
New Outlook has also provided opportunities to connect with other people and participate in activities. Tracey particularly enjoys the Rainbow Group and listening to the New Outlook band.
One bus ride at a time
One of Tracey’s goals was something many people might take for granted: catching the bus confidently.
Public transport had been a source of anxiety, so Tracey and Charlotte started by riding Wollongong’s 55C Loop bus together for the entire route. On their next trip, they got off at a café near Wollongong North Beach before catching the bus again later.
On the third trip, Tracey did it independently.
“Charlotte’s support has alleviated that anxiety, and I’m far more confident now. I can get to where I’m going without any worries!”
The next goal? Learning to navigate the trains.
For Tracey, each achievement is another step towards greater independence and the future they are working to build.
“Now that I’ve had a taste of independence, I want more of it.”
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