We hear from AJ, a resident at SIG Equinox, who has a powerful story about his journey to recovery. AJ’s experience highlights the real impact of community-based mental health support, showing how programs at SIG Equinox are helping to regain independence and confidence after a challenging period. His insights not only shed light on the effectiveness of these services but also call attention to areas where we can push for more support and understanding in mental health care. Through AJ’s perspective, we see the tangible benefits of inclusive and person-centred services. 

AJ: Hi Rashardé, my name is AJ. 

Rashardé: Nice to meet you Aj. Could you share how your journey to recovery began at Equinox? 

AJ: What brings me to Equinox is that I was in hospital in 2022 and was very ill, due to problems at home. I had my council house for probably 10 years and I was in hospital in 2022 at Maudsley Hospital. So I got discharged in May 2023 and I came here, so I’ve been here for over one year. I had a review just recently with my doctor and my care coordinator and they are ready for me to move on to a lower support. They put up an application for me, so I’m just waiting for them to hear from them. 

Rashardé: That is really great to hear. So how do you feel about having to move to a lower support?    

AJ: Yeah, it feels great. I took advice from the support working sessions with my support worker and have been learning independence, learning how to cook, going food shopping and saving my money. I am saving my money for my property in the future.  

Rashardé: It’s great to hear about the support you received at Equinox. Do you more can be done government could do more to help individuals suffering with mental health?  

AJ: Yes, they actually don’t talk about the mental health enough. They talk about the NHS and maybe housing, homelessness and things like that, which is good but they need to talk about the mental health and also that it really affects young people too. I am lucky that I had good support and staff around me, but some people aren’t able to get the help they need. And, you know, it’s not fair. It’s not fair at all. 

The people from government need to visit here (Equinox) and see how they run this place, sit and talk with the staff, speak to a couple of the residents and build up ideas of how they can improve mental health services.  

Rashardé: Of course, of course. I totally agree. Mental health often doesn’t get the attention it deserves in discussions about public services, despite its importance. It’s really encouraging to hear that you had good support.  

AJ: Yeah, for sure. 

Rashardé: What programs at Equinox have enjoyed most?  

AJ: Well, I enjoy all the programs at the Equinox. All the activities like practicing mindfulness, the newspaper-round, going to the gym and the group walking session and things like that.  

Rashardé: Nice to know you enjoy those That’s great to know. You’ve come a long way, and it’s inspiring to hear how you’ve turned things around. I wish you all the best with your move and your future endeavours.

AJ: Thank you, Rashardé. I appreciate that. Equinox has been a big part of my journey, and I’m grateful for the support I’ve received here. I’m excited for what’s next. 

Rashardé: We’re all rooting for you, AJ. Thank you for sharing your story with us. It’s been a pleasure talking with you. 

AJ: Thanks, Rashardé. It’s been great talking with you too.