After the loss of his job, the end of a relationship and living in a negative environment, John*, 19, was left in a vulnerable state. He felt upset, angry and depressed and was unsure how to move forward. While he considered counselling, the costs involved was a barrier that prevented John from seeking professional help.

John soon became involved with the Depression and Anxiety Recovery Programme (DARP) hosted by Dargaville SDA church in partnership with ADRA. DARP offers a safe environment for anyone that needs support, the free course provides positive methods for dealing with both depression and anxiety and addresses the core issues that can trigger negative thoughts and beliefs.

“I was able to get the facts about depression through the course alongside having counselling and getting into a safer environment, and I also gained a support group that has continued after the course finished. Because of this I felt more positive about things and had the hope that life was going to improve.”

Since finishing the programme, John now has a full time job, lives in a more positive environment and has a strong support network of friends. John is now engaged with other community programmes that supports others in need.

“Instead of staring into the hole, I was able to lift my head up and look at the light – the hope of improvement.”

*Name has been changed to protect privacy