Navigating through depression to a brighter future
For a long time, Jerome Fa’asalele could not see a way out of his depression. However, with the support of Vaka Tautua’s Pacific mental health navigation services in Wellington, he is now on his way to a brighter future.
Jerome (19 years old) struggled with his mental health while working in a job where he felt little enjoyment or fulfilment. “I just fell into depression, which affected me badly. I stopped going to work – I didn’t resign, just stopped showing up.”
Tevita Tuita (L) assisting Jerome Fa’asalele (R) with his job application at Vaka Tautua’s Porirua office.
For the next few months, Jerome spent a lot of time alone in his room on the internet, playing video games and spiralling downwards mentally and emotionally. His concerned parents, seeing their son’s distress, called a crisis helpline.
Jerome was referred by his local District Health Board’s mental health team to Vaka Tautua’s Pacific Navigation Services for support. Being Samoan, the family wanted a Pacific service who would understand their culture.
Jerome and his parents worked with Tevita Tuita, Pacific Mental Health Navigator for Vaka Tautua, on developing and putting into action a mental health care plan with strategies for supporting Jerome on his journey towards wellness.
After three months, the changes in Jerome have been remarkable – his parents are thrilled with his progress. Jerome’s improved appearance, attitude, behaviour, and confidence have transformed him into a young man with a bright future to look forward to.
“Vaka Tautua has helped me a lot. I’ve been getting better every day, and I am doing well now,” said a grateful Jerome. “The most effective thing for me was going into respite care for five days. It was a good break from the stresses of life, and I came home feeling refreshed.”
“Tevita coming to my house to talk to me and getting me out of my room really helped. Depression is probably like a phase for most people, but no matter how bad it gets, I strongly believe that it will get better as long as you try your best.”
Jerome has recently found a new job and started working with a furniture removal company. He aspires to join the New Zealand Army and plans to enrol in the Limited Service Volunteer programme run by the New Zealand Defence Force.
With his new positive outlook on life, Jerome will no doubt achieve his goals and continue navigating his way to wellness and resilience.
Learn more about our Pacific Navigation Services and our other Ola Fiafia mental health support services.
Call our free national Pacific helpline – 0800 OLA LELEI (0800 652 535) – if you are feeling worried, stressed, or concerned and need someone to talk to.