7 March 2022

Mind Australia will lead more than 20 new mental health retreats this year, providing specialised support and important respite for South Australians experiencing mental health challenges in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Recovery Retreats, first launched in South Australia in 2021, provide 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 in a safe, supported and flexible environment.

Importantly, the Recovery Retreats also provide respite for carers of South Australians experiencing mental health challenges.

The inaugural Recovery Retreats in 2021 proved incredibly popular, filling to capacity and often requiring waiting lists. More than 50 people attended Mind’s Recovery Retreats in their first year, prompting the announcement of 24 new retreats this year.

The first three retreats for the year were filled before the 2022 program was even officially launched, highlighting the need for this important service.

This year, Recovery Retreats will be held in Adelaide CBD, Victor Harbour, Mannum, Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley and more.

About Recovery Retreats

Retreats range from 3 – 4 day stays, and are held at picturesque locations within 90 minutes’ drive of metropolitan Adelaide. Recovery Retreats can be accessed through a client’s NDIS plan under Short Term Accommodation. They can also be self-funded.

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 (for example, life coaching) throughout the retreat.
  • food included.

All retreats will be governed by the latest government health directives to provide a COVID safe environment. For more information, view Recovery Retreats.

Recovery retreats quotes

Quotes attributable to Mind Australia CEO Gill Callister PSM

“The pandemic has highlighted the need for a variety of easily accessible mental health services to provide people with the support they need.

“Mind’s Recovery Retreats, generally funded by clients’ NDIS packages, address a critical need for respite, as proven by the popularity of the inaugural retreats in 2021.

“Our research shows community based psychosocial support reduces hospitalisations and promotes sustained recovery for people with mental health and wellbeing challenges.

“We are committed to providing services which support South Australians living with the day-to-day impacts of mental ill-health, as well as their families, friends and carers. We designed these retreats in partnership with our clients and their families so as to make the difference people want to see in their lives.”

Quotes attributable to Marlon (no surname please) – Recovery Retreat participant

Background:

  • 28 years old, Adelaide resident who has schizophrenia
  • Currently also accesses Burnside Housing Accommodation and Support Partnership (BHASP) program - a residential support service for people with mental health and wellbeing challenges, who are transitioning to independent living in the community.
  • Does not want to be pictured in the media

“It’s a new experience away from home. The Recovery Retreat provided an opportunity to go to places that I wouldn’t be able to get to otherwise. It’s a good opportunity and experience to get out somewhere different to where I currently am.

“I visited Hahndorf, West Beach and Victor Harbour as part of the Recovery Retreat, which helped with my mental health. I had no feelings of stress on the Recovery Retreats and I got to meet new people. I had less mental health struggles and less stress on the retreat.

“Meeting new people is the big standout for me and the activities really inspired me and are good motivation.

“Having personal accommodation, provided me with independence - my own space and privacy. You can prepare for outings in your own little space and can get ready without people bothering you. Your own little area to chill out.”

Quotes attributable to Lauren Marasco, lead practitioner, Mind Australia

“Recovery Retreats offer a holistic and inclusive experience to clients who are looking for a supported and flexible getaway in their own accommodation. Clients receive support, advice and new perspectives on their mental health challenges.

“We meet with clients prior to the Recovery Retreat to discuss their mental health in detail, including potential triggers, coping strategies and support options.

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

“These are often followed by success stories from their families and carers. The retreats have a genuine positive impact. Clients also learn from each other. They make positive connections and build confidence.”

About Mind Australia

Mind is one of Australia’s leading community-managed specialist mental health service providers with a range of residential, mobile outreach, centre based and online services. We have been supporting people living with the day-to-day impacts of mental illness, as well as their families, friends and carers for more than 40 years.

We provide practical and motivational support that helps people to develop the skills they need to move on, thrive and improve the quality of their lives. We also work with people to address poverty, housing, education and employment.

We deliver our support services in ways that are flexible and offer genuine choice and control. 

Images and media release download

For more information or to arrange an interview with Mind CEO Gill Callister or a Mind representative, please contact Mind Communications Manager Max McLean at [email protected] or on 0497 333 545.