Mind Australia thanks Destinee, a former Rockingham Step Up Step Down service user, for sharing her experience at the service and allowing us to share this open letter.
Hi, my name is Destinee and this is a part of my life story.
I entered foster care at just 19 months due to my birth parents’ circumstances. Over the years I lived in five foster homes, one group home, two respite placements and one host family. My childhood was marked by constant change and instability. Growing up I experienced many awful things including physical abuse, isolation and sexual assault.
Between the ages of 12 to 14 I lived with another foster family – this was the first time I experienced what it felt like to be safe, cared for and loved. Because of my previous experiences I was often in survival mode, testing whether they would give up on me like others had, but they didn’t – they stayed and to this day they remain an important part of my life.
Things went backwards after that with another placement but, from 16-18, I returned to that foster family who had previously provided me with a sense of safety. During this time I made the decision to stop taking my medication, believing I would be ok without it. Unfortunately, this led to one of the lowest points of my life.
After several days of being completely overwhelmed and out of control I was admitted to the Emergency Department and later transferred to a psychiatric ward where I stayed for two weeks. It was an incredibly difficult experience. After being discharged I tried to rebuild my life by enrolling in a bridging course at a TAFE with the goal of studying law. However, I found it too overwhelming and eventually withdrew, which led me back into depression.
Between 18 and 20 I was supported by a youth worker from Wanslea who became a significant and positive influence in my life. She stood by me through some of my hardest moments and I continue to be incredibly grateful for her support and guidance. During this time, I lived in an unsafe and abusive environment and leaving that led me to Kwelena Step Up Step Down, which became a turning point in my life.
Rockingham Step Up Step Down aka ‘Kwelena’
When I first arrived, I didn’t want to stay. I believed I was fine now that I had left the previous situation, but in reality, I was struggling deeply. Thankfully, I stayed for the full month and returned several more times.
During my time at Kwelena I began to rebuild myself. I learned new coping strategies, gained confidence, and started to understand who I am. I identified my strengths and areas for growth. I slowly began to lower my guard, especially around men, and built strong, trusting relationships with staff. For the first time I felt like I was leading my own recovery, without pressure. That experience changed my life.
Kwelena Step Up Step Down supported me during a time when I didn’t think I could keep going. It helped me find hope again. I will always be grateful for the care and support I received as it played a crucial role in helping me become a stronger and more grounded version of myself.
Today I am continuing my healing journey. I am looking into studying a Diploma in Community Services, with a focus on mental health as I hope to one day become a mental health recovery support worker – ideally within a Step Up Step Down service.
I want to give back and support others in their recovery, because I truly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to heal. Recovery is possible. It may not be easy, and it takes time – but, with commitment, support and belief, it can happen. If I can recover, others can too.
Lots of love and warm wishes,
Destinee
If this article raises concerns for you, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Aboriginal and Torres Straits 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.
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