Rebuilding a Life Through Learning: David’s Journey Back to Purpose

David, 57, from Ipswich, shares how returning to education at CRC helped him rebuild his confidence, discover a new direction, and reconnect with a sense of purpose after an incredibly challenging period in his life.

What prompted you to sign up for a course at CRC?

Due to Lockdown in 2020 my business in Spain was forced to close, I suffered badly with COVID and today suffer with the effects of Long Covid. At that time my ex partner was having an affair and suddenly I was made homeless. Up until then I had been very successful in the commercial world, then 4 years ago I was homeless and broke.

I came back to the UK after 25 years and suffered a major breakdown, it was then a number of physical health issues were diagnosed and I was classed as disabled, as I need two hips replaced, along with some other issues. I was housed in Ipswich, alone and very lonely and self-isolated, in a deep dark depression. I started to have therapy and take medication, and as a result, an overactive thyroid was discovered which was also having an effect on my mental health.

After the death of a young housemate by suicide, I decided that I would change my whole path of future career and become a counsellor. After seeing an advert on Facebook for CRC, I started the Self Harm & Suicide Awareness course online. I also started volunteering for a couple of local charities. Completing the course and gaining a certificate at 57 made me feel I had accomplished something. I then took the course in Bullying in Children & Young Adults and then became a volunteer Counselling Assistant at the local Hospice. I had developed the bug for learning, and to help me become a counsellor, I then enrolled on the Autism Awareness course.

While doing that course and studying the Autism spectrum I had a lightbulb moment, and after completing several questionnaires I am now awaiting a full diagnosis. My therapist for CPTSD feels that I have ADHD & ASD. It was the best news I could have had as it gave me an explanation about my past behaviour, the way I used drugs and alcohol to medicate my way through life. I am now almost 10 years clean and sober and have been a sponsor for AA for 9 years.

What were your main achievements on the course?

Completing the course and gaining a certificate at 57 made me feel I had accomplished something. CRC helped me find myself and find a new direction for my life, one where using the skills and knowledge I have gained can help others and make a difference to society. I have started a group in Ipswich called Men Can Talk www.mencantalk.co.uk I volunteer for 3 charities, the local Library and Ipswich Museum. It has been a major role in my recovery from mental health issues and given me a goal for when I can return to work.

How will the knowledge and skills gained help you in your role?

I completed the Level 2 Certificate in Self Harm & Suicide Awareness and Prevention course last academic year, then completed the Level 2 Certificate Awareness of Bullying in Children and Young People this academic year, and achieved the Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism last week.

I also became a volunteer Counselling Assistant at the local Hospice.

What did you particularly like about studying at CRC?

Firstly, the wide range of courses and the ease of the study system. Also, the support you get from the tutor even though it’s remote studying, you feel fully supported.

What advice would offer anyone considering signing up for this course?

Take it seriously and devote certain days of the week and times to study and stick to them. It’s not something you can just do for 15 mins at a time; you need to sit quietly and focus for 2-3 hours per session. Time management is key and setting goals on time scales to complete each section. Read all the information fully and click all the links and read the external material. Also do your own research on the topic.

Decide where you want to go in life and CRC will have the course for you.

Thank you, David, for sharing your story with us. If you’re interested in finding out more about the Online Courses we offer at CRC, please click here.