The following snapshots offer a view of what life has been like and what changed for people who have been through Windana services.
My life today is unrecognisable in comparison to two years ago, and I thank Windana for all the help it’s given me in rebuilding my life, a life that today is very busy!
I volunteer for two not-for profit organisations, I am studying for a Diploma and am doing other Education courses. Every week I attend a Buddhist learning centre as well as attending AA meetings. I now have contact with my children regularly and I often go to galleries and expos. I recently just spent 3 days volunteering at a major festival. I live independently, but still visit the Therapeutic Community in Maryknoll to help out in the garden. Phew, I’m luv’n life at the moment and I back myself to make healthy choices.
I am dreaming to be great…
Thank you wholeheartedly.
John 2010
“To all of the wonderful people at Windana
Those who taught me,
those who work behind the scenes
and those benefactors who donate so that people
like me can learn to take care of ourselves,
learn to love ourselves and others and
of course our own families and children
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
(May there be people in your own lives that give you strength also)”
Warm fond & loving regards, James & his two young daughters.
I was born in Melbourne and brought up in the South-eastern suburbs. My father died when I was a baby and my mother remarried. I was raised by my mother and step father in a loving family. I was good at sport and did well academically in primary school. When I reached high school I rebelled. I started smoking dope when I was thirteen and I ran away from home when I was fourteen for eight months. This was when I first tried speed while living in a squat. When I returned to Melbourne I began my apprenticeship in the construction industry.
Because I was earning money I could afford to use large quantities of various drugs. I continued to work and use drugs for many years. I was a poly drug user, which included dope, speed, ecstasy, cocaine, acid and when things got too much, Xanax. I had three broken relationships and became estranged from my family. I couldn’t work out why my life was like this, I thought it was everyone else’s fault.
I used to go to detox just to give my brain a rest, but I wasn’t ready to give it up. My life was getting worse and worse. I was unable to work anymore and work had pretty much been my other addiction. ICE became my main drug. I had been Mr Popular with everyone. When I began using a lot of ICE no one wanted to know me. I became isolated, I was different, nasty, annoying and would never shut-up. I felt like an outcast of society.
I recognised that I had hit rock bottom and something had to change. I reached out for help and went into The Windana Drug Withdrawal House for ten days. I then went to the Therapeutic Community (TC) in Maryknoll. At first it was terrifying, it was like someone had taken away my best friend of twenty-five years. It was scary, I felt lonely and vulnerable. I was welcomed and gradually made friends and felt comfortable. Although I could be aggressive and painful to staff and residents, I was focused on my recovery and fully engaged myself in all groups.
I was only at the TC for four months and left on my own accord. I relapse, but I have now been clean for nine months. So much that I learnt at the TC has helped me get where I am today and continued to help me in my everyday life.
I have a great job back in the construction industry, I am married for the first time, I have a baby on the way and I have just bought my first home! My life was a disaster, but without the help from Windana, I don’t think I would be where I am today. If I can do it anyone can. Good luck.
- Adam
Read more stories here.
_________________________________________________________________
Share Your Story by emailing us at windana@windana.org.au
Anyone who uses alcohol or other drugs can develop dependence.
Alcohol and drug problems don’t target any particular group.
People end up in difficulty for a wide range of reasons. Sometimes a background of abuse or disadvantage has taken its toll. Stress associated with a major traumatic event can precipitate a cycle of dependence. Being raised in a home where one or both parents are dependent on alcohol or other drugs can also be a causal factor.
But it is also true that many people with alcohol and other drug issues come from backgrounds of advantage, with supportive loving families and plenty of opportunity. There may be no history of drug or alcohol dependence in their family.
Just as there is no one reason for alcohol or drug dependence, there is no one cure.
Dependence is not caused by moral failing of lack of will power. Nor is it a simple thing to overcome. But it can be overcome and even seemingly hopeless situations can be completely turned around.
Often, by the time people seek help with their alcohol or drug problem, they have many other issues to face. Alcohol and other drugs can seem to be a solution to problems but the sad fact is they have caused many more problems than they ever solved.
These people come from many different circumstances. Some have managed their substance dependence while continuing to hold down a job, raise children and be active members of their community. Others have lost home, family, friends, dignity and, finally, hope.
The one thing they have in common is that alcohol and other drugs are causing problems in their lives. Some want to stop completely. Others want to cut down and explore other issues.
Windana will walk with them… whatever path they choose… illuminating choices… Encouraging change and growth…
To find out how you can help Windana to help people to rebuild their lives click here.