Ryan’s Story
“My life is a massive improvement, and I am much happier now. Things are more in perspective, and I can look forward. After regaining my qualifications, I’m looking forward to a good job with a good salary. If anything, Speke House has made me more resilient”.
Ryan served for four years as the light dragoons – Royal Armoured Corps, completing his final year with them in 2017. He enjoyed his time within the regiment and whilst he was not involved in any tours to war torn countries, he was involved in NATO exercises in Kenya, where he was deployed into a number of roles in protection, guarding several camps and also escorting and ensuring the safety of senior ranking officers.
After losing his job and the breakup of the relationship with his then partner, Ryan found himself homeless and living on the streets. He also lost his best friend, whose death was the trigger for most of his problems which included him suffering depression and anxiety.
Ryan reflects that he really hit rock bottom when he found himself sleeping in a doorway or local woodlands. He did not turn to alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism but was more concerned about where his next meal would come from. Looking after his personal hygiene was also a challenge in Ryans living circumstances and he would shower when he could, making the best of what he could.
During this time, Ryan made two attempts to take is own life with overdoses and at one stage considered jumping from a bridge.
Throughout this challenging time, Ryan said that he did not know where to turn for help, but eventually sourced assistance from Project Nova and RBL. It was here that he was allocated a caseworker that would deal with and help Ryan with all of the challenges with which he could not cope.
It was this caseworker who eventually referred him to Speke House.
Since moving to Speke House, Ryan confirms that his mental health has improved “a hell of a lot.”
Whilst his problems are still there, he is learning to manage them with the support of every member of staff. He particularly singles out the support he receives from the therapist John who he says is “really good.” Confirming that “it is hard to explain how John has helped me, but it worked.”
Ryan also says he manages his money much better now and is moving forward, refreshing qualifications to enable him to look towards his future career and goals.
Reflecting back on what life might have looked like had he not found support and come to launchpad, Ryan says that, “I think I would be dead.”