JannaSenior Contributor
The Next Chapter
It’s been a long time since I posted on this forum and I would like to apologise for being so absent. I’ve been particularly busy dealing with this, that and the other, and when time permits I take much needed time out to either paint (my passion) or simply watch some inane TV programme. I’ve been really mindful of self-care and have come to realise that I need to balance things out by “changing the channel” and getting my headspace as far away from mental health issues as possible in order to maintain my strength and be an effective carer.
Things with my son have been up, down, good and bad (and everything in-between). I thought I would let you know where we are now at. At the beginning of this year he was still enrolled in an SSP school, but refused to attend and remained holed up in his bedroom. His enrolment was terminated and his case was referred to a Transition Support Teacher, who upon meeting and conducting an assessment recommended that he (or we) apply to Family & Community Services (Ageing, Disability & Home Care) for a “Transition to Work” program, which is a 2 year funded post-school program for young people with a disability with moderate to high needs, with the aim of assisting young people in gaining employment. The application process took a long time, however, just last week we received good news. My son has been accepted for funding in the “Community Participation” program, which is actually better than the Transition to Work program because the funding is ongoing, as opposed to being limited to 2 years.
For anyone who may be interested in knowing more about these programs for young people with a disability (including mental health disability) here are a couple of links:
So now we embark upon the next chapter of my son’s incredibly difficult journey with major depression and social anxiety. I am utterly confused as to how this is going to proceed, but have come to learn that now that he has funding there are many different pathways which can be taken, mainly with external accredited service providers.
My son’s case has been referred to a national disability service provider and tomorrow we have a lady coming to the house to do an initial meet and assessment. After chatting with her over the phone she is recommending that my son be allocated an outreach support officer (or two) who will begin by coming to the house and establishing some sort of bond with him with a view of being able to determine what is best suited for him and slowly but surely getting him reconnected with life.
I’m wondering if anyone out there has any experience with either of the above programs and whether they’re able to pass on any advice??
In the meantime I’ve been invited to attend a “Transition Careers Expo” for school leavers with disabilities next Tuesday where I believe service providers will be able to assist with information on:
• Options for school leavers including SLES (School Leaver Employment Supports)
• Specialist employment services (DES) and support
• Further education and training - TAFE and university
• Community supports and agencies
• Recreation and leisure options
• Care services and parent / carer support networks
• Therapy and support services
I’m finding this all quite daunting at present but I’m also happy and relieved that we yet again have some direction. Anything would have to be better than to have a child locked up in a bedroom. I remain hopeful that this will be what helps.
Love Janna ❤️
