There are more than 100,000 homeless people living in Australia according to the last census. Of these only 14% were living in government funded Supported Accommodation Assistance Program (SAAP). This article will consider some of the reasons for homelessness and look at some of the homeless services on the road to recovery.
1.Domestic violence
The highest percentage of people living on the street are there as victims of domestic violence who have run away. Often these people end up on the streets after fleeing from abusive parents or partners, too scared to turn to the police or to others for help. Domestic violence is a serious crime and can destroy the lives of those victims to it. If you, or anyone you know, is being abused at home or elsewhere then contact support services or the police and put an end to your misery.
2.Financial difficulty
A small amount of people become homeless because of financial difficulty. In this case it is essential to keep in good order and find a shelter in which to live whilst you regain your financial standing. By maintaining yourself and your appearance you will be able to job hunt on a day to day basis and should be able to find work swiftly.
3.Addiction
Whether addiction is the reason for homelessness or a product of it for you, it is essential to enter programs to help you escape the harmful cycle of addiction. Addiction will stifle your senses and stop you from realising the dire nature of your situation and the potential for escape. Sign up to the free Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous programs to begin your road to recovery. These programs will provide you with the potential to turn your life around and find the help you really need.
4.Relationship breakdown
Relationship and family breakdowns are another common reason for people ending up homeless. Depending on your age there are numerous hotlines you can call for support about family and relationship troubles. Be sure to seek counselling as you are looking to rehabilitate yourself because coming to terms with the loss will help you on the road to recovery.
5.Recovery
Recovery will be a difficult process from homelessness but it is possible and very achievable. There are numerous services and people out there who want to help you to recover from your situation. Some of the key elements of recovery are:
- Acceptance of your situation
- Sobriety
- An active search for work
- Seeking advice and support
- A commitment to recovery
Once you achieve these elements you will be well on the way to recovery and a return to your previous position in life. Once you have accommodation it is important to spend any money you earn wisely to enable your further growth rather than wasting it. Buy some new smart work clothes and a phone so that you are neat and always contactable.
Recovery can come sooner than you would imagine when you have established a place to live and a steady income. You will be able to get a car relatively swiftly once you are settled through the use of a car loan which will use the car as collateral. By creating a steady position you will quickly find yourself on the rise again and will be able to look forward to returning to your previous lifestyle swiftly.