Life can throw you obstacles when you least expect it. Finding your balance again can be the turning point in regaining control of the life you want.

When Adelaide job seeker Ryan was first referred to Jobedge for Disability Employment Services in February 2022, he struggled with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression due to caring for and losing his mum in 2021.

Throughout caring for his mother, Ryan went above and beyond to ensure she was looked after. Ryan had previously studied a Certificate III in Community Care, which he was able to use to improve the support he could offer her. Putting his priorities on hold to look after his family, it became difficult to look after his own needs.

When Ryan first came to Jobedge, he began working with Job Coach Mel, who spent the first few appointments building up his confidence. Ryan was determined to get back on track and agreed to meet more than once a fortnight to make quick progress.

Mel helped Ryan realise his strengths and created a list of them to refer to, including honesty, perseverance, bravery, humility, and gratitude.

“Getting his mind and motivation back on track has been our key goal together,” said Mel.

“From the get-go, we spent intentional time together to build Ryan’s self-esteem and belief in his strengths and abilities.”

Ryan completed tasks to prepare him for job interviews and build his application skills, interview skills, and self-belief. Together, they updated Ryan’s resume to support and enhance his job search efforts.

“Mel played a crucial role in my rehabilitation and helped build my confidence which was very low,” said Ryan.

Using the skills she had uncovered in Ryan, Mel reached out to businesses to highlight his attributes in the hopes of finding interested employers.

In May, Ryan interviewed with a local employer and successfully landed a job as a Machine Operator. He is thrilled to have found a positive environment to support his transition into a healthy work-life balance.

Ryan enjoys his work and finds his co-workers have been friendly and helpful as he settles into the role.

“Jobedge has been very helpful in my health recovery and setting me up for an interview which I was successful with,” said Ryan.

Since finding employment, Ryan has kept in touch with Jobedge as part of our ongoing support for participants for the first twelve months of work.

Jobedge provides regular check-ups with Ryan on his progress, including fortnightly calls for available assistance or any questions or requests he might have.

“Thank you to all the staff at Jobedge for helping me find work and continuing to help me while I am employed,” said Ryan.

“No other job network has ever helped me as much as Jobedge has.”

The Jobedge team have watched Ryan’s inspiring journey to overcome his struggles and pursue new work.

“Ryan’s experience and his story warms my heart. A little bit of support and encouragement can make a huge difference,” said Mel.

“We at Jobedge will continue to support Ryan as he starts this new chapter in his life and continues to become the best version of himself.

Jobedge is very proud of Ryan’s achievements and looks forward to seeing him grow into a new career.

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