Paul finds a new power
Life looking up for former addict
PAUL Ryan speaks with a smile these days — because it is the first time in about 30 years he has spent any meaningful period drug-free.
Mr Ryan — who lost years of his life to speed, ice and alcohol addiction — joined the Power in You drug rehabilitation program 13 months ago, and is now a leader within it.
The program, which runs three times a week out of AGB Training, South Geelong, focuses on improving selfworth through social activities and offers lived experience from former addicts.
At the height of his addiction, Mr Ryan, 43, was paralysed by depression, did not want to leave his home and tried to take his life.
“I was that deep and dark in depression that I just hated everything,” he said.
But after his involvement in the Power in You program, he enjoys being among 12 others in the rehabilitation group who complete exercise, day trips and cooking classes together.
“The group is like one big family and everyone encourages each other,” he said.
After being free from addiction for more than three years, Kane Nuttall — who holds diplomas in alcohol, drug and mental health counselling — is working with not-for-profit organisation Community Veracity to deliver the Power in You program.
Testimony of Mr Nuttall’s success as a mentor is the turnaround Mr Ryan has shown to mend previously fractured relationships with key members of his family.
“There’s no way I’m going back (to drugs), that life is not for me,” Mr Ryan said.
He is encouraging other addicts who want help to get involved in the program to “get their lives going again”.
Mr Ryan, who is dyslexic, has started a certificate IV in drug and alcohol at AGB Training, so he can continue assisting other rehabilitation participants.
The free program operates in three-hour sessions on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
After receiving a grant to renovate a Little Fyans St home into AGB Training, Mr Nuttall hopes to double the intake next year.
“(The house) will bring a more private space . . . some people are put off because of all the other courses that are run within the AGB building,” he said.
“(The house) will be opened seven days a week providing things like meals, showers and other support.”
Power in You project: call Kane on 0477 074 007 or poweru@comv.org.au
For 24/7 crisis or suicide prevention support call Lifeline on 131 114 or visit www.lifeline.org.au/gethelp