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“When I do art, I am free.” Thuc's story
Thuc Tran, a participant in Jesuit Social Services’ Western Metro Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect program (MHWC), which supports the family members and carers of people with mental illness and substance use issues, is a true testament to the power of community support. Born in Vietnam, Thuc immigrated to Australia as a refugee with her family 1995. Thuc entered our MHWC program after feeling overwhelmed by her caring responsibilities for her 14-year-old son.
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School work that’s out of the box
Ignatius Learning Centre students wrap their hands before boxing class. Teacher Nick Porter describes this as a “beautiful moment”. “It is a calming place – a time to clear their heads and set goals for the session.“
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Connecting with someone who gets what it’s like
“When I was bereaved by suicide, I was not just grieving the loss of a friend but grieving for all LGBTQIA+ people who face a transphobic and homophobic world each day,” says Immy Money, Project Officer at our new Support After Suicide Hub (SASH). “I was realising just how many in our community are suicide bereaved.”
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Helping Donna and Shayne make ‘a contribution beyond our caring’
Donna and Shayne’s fulltime role as carers to Jasmine saw them nominated for the lived experience reference group for Western Metro Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect – our recently launched resource and support hub for carers of those experiencing mental health or substance misuse issues. Donna and Shayne’s 23-year-old daughter, Jasmine, has autism and associated mental health and mood problems – frequently experiencing anxiety, particularly when life lacks structure and order.
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How music connects hearts in grief and helps in healing
When musician and anthropologist Glenn McDonald’s mum passed away from suicide in 2011, music played an important part in his recovery. ...
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Empowering young people on the path to recovery through connection to nature
The Outdoor Experience utilises a Bush Adventure Therapy to supports young people struggling with substance abuse and mental health. Learn how the program empowers participants to move forward on their journey to recovery.
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Specialist NDIS support to ease transition from care
With our specialised support, 17-year-old Allie prepared to exit out-of-home care and live independently in the community.
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Megaphone stage for Melbourne’s up-and-coming music talents
Some of Melbourne’s most talented emerging artists spent the eve of International Youth Day onstage at the Arts Centre’s Channel contemporary performance space, sharing original music with a captivated crowd at the Artful Dodgers Studios’ Megaphone showcase event.