16 January 2023

Mind Australia has announced its upcoming itinerary for mental health retreats in South Australia, with more than 50 respite opportunities for people experiencing mental health and wellbeing concerns.

Mind’s Recovery Retreats provide a unique opportunity for people with mental illness to experience time away from home while reflecting on how to build wellbeing in their lives in a safe, supported and flexible environment.

Recovery Retreats are available for NDIS participants and range from three to four day stays within 90 minutes’ drive of metropolitan Adelaide. Participants receive high quality 24/7 support, individual accommodation, and recreational and educational opportunities.

For the first time, Mind is offering group and single person (accompanied by a support worker) Recovery Retreat packages.

The Lead Practitioner for Mind Recovery Retreats in South Australia, Lauren Marasco, said the retreats offer participants a “holistic and inclusive experience” to support their mental health and wellbeing.
“We meet with clients prior to the Recovery Retreat to discuss their mental health in detail, including potential triggers, coping strategies and support options,” Ms Marasco said.

“We hear so many stories about the positive experience of retreats from clients, including the ways in which they were able to better manage their diagnosed mental health condition after going on a retreat.

“Clients also learn from each other and make positive connections and build confidence.”

Glenda, a Recovery Retreats participant, said the respite breaks give her something to look forward to.

“I always come back refreshed,” she said.

“It’s great to meet other people and realise you’re not the only one with a mental illness. You are with likeminded, empathetic people who ‘get it’.”

“I couldn’t ask for more from the support workers; they are very sensitive to your needs and where you are at. Last year was a bloody tough year to put it mildly, so to have someone really care for you and make you feel important and that you matter has been huge for me.”

Mind CEO Gill Callister said the retreats actively build resilience, encourage community participation and provide invaluable respite.

“We aim to provide practical and motivational support that helps people to develop the skills they need to improve the quality of their lives,” Ms Callister said.

“This means we need to help them feel strong, healthy and in control – our Recovery Retreats are a prime example of this mission in action.”

Recovery Retreat packages for the second half of 2023 will be announced in June.

Download the South Australia 2023 Recovery Retreats brochure and calendar.

Access information on Mind Recovery Retreats here or call 1300 286 463.

 

About Mind Recovery Retreats

Mind Australia Recovery Retreats are a unique opportunity for people with mental health challenges to experience time away from home while reflecting on how to build wellbeing in their lives.

Recovery Retreats are supported by people with specialised skills in mental health recovery in a safe and flexible environment.

Retreats feature:

  • High quality 24/7 support
  • Individual accommodation (no group/shared accommodation)
  • Help with daily living and personal care
  • Opportunities for those participating to design the structure of recreational activities and workshops
  • Food included.

Recovery Retreats can be accessed through an NDIS plan under Short Term Accommodation. They can also be self-funded.

If this article raises concerns for you, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders can also call 13 YARN (13 92 76) a 24/7 national crisis support telephone service staffed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.