COLIN
Three years ago, I was going through a rough time. I was working night-shifts and having trouble sleeping during the day and staying awake at night. I also had depression. I started taking ice to help me stay awake at work, but didn’t think I’d get addicted. That’s when things started getting pretty out of control.
My addiction started taking over my life. I had no money. I lost my job and then my wife. My family didn’t know how to handle me. Addiction is all-consuming - it takes away everything you care about and love.
ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY CONNECT WORKS WITH ABORIGINAL PEOPLE, THEIR FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES TO HELP IMPROVE LONG-TERM PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH, FAMILY AND RELATIONSHIPS, EDUCATION, AND CULTURAL AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES.
I realised I had to do something and regain control of my life. I went into rehab, and then Aboriginal Community Connect (ACC) got in contact. It was a blessing. They’ve been very supportive.
I attend various programs there. There are art classes, and I’ve been working on a community garden with other clients. We’ve put in indigenous edible plants and it looks really good. I attend counselling as well, and if I’m feeling down, they’re just a phone call away. They’re like a second family to me.
It’s still a struggle – I have good days and bad days. But with ACC I’ve managed to hold it at bay. I can see light at the end of the tunnel now.
I hope to put my experience to good use, especially teaching the younger generation about the reality of addiction. This year, I’m studying social services at Tauondi College in Port Adelaide. I hope to become a support worker and give something back to my community. Even deterring one person from using ice would make all the dark times worth it.
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