Sunrise Way Strengthens Mental Health Support for People in Recovery
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Sunrise Way will strengthen mental health and suicide prevention support for people recovering from alcohol and other drug dependence through a new initiative focused on workforce capability and client wellbeing.
Sunrise Way is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that provides specialised, person-centred therapy and rehabilitation services for adults living with substance dependence. Operating residential rehabilitation facilities in Toowoomba and the Lockyer Valley, the organisation delivers evidence-based programs that help people understand addiction, manage their mental health, develop strategies to maintain sobriety and rebuild their lives. In addition to residential rehabilitation, Sunrise Way provides transition and aftercare support to help clients secure housing, connect with employment and community services, and maintain long-term recovery.
The initiative, Recovering with Support, has been developed in response to the complex challenges faced by many people accessing alcohol and other drug rehabilitation services. Clients often experience co-occurring mental health concerns, trauma, social isolation, housing instability, unemployment and disconnection from family and community. These factors can increase psychological distress and elevate the risk of suicide, particularly during periods of transition and early recovery.
The project will provide Mental Health First Aid Conversations training for staff working directly with clients across Sunrise Way's rehabilitation services. The training will strengthen staff confidence and capability to recognise early warning signs of mental health concerns, respond appropriately to people experiencing distress, have supportive conversations and connect clients with relevant internal and external support services.
Funding will also support the establishment of a male-specific group within the rehabilitation program. The group will provide a safe and structured environment where men can explore healthy masculinity, emotional wellbeing, relationships, help-seeking behaviours, emotional regulation and positive coping strategies. Many men in recovery experience shame, stigma and social pressures that can make it difficult to seek support, and the program aims to reduce these barriers while strengthening connection and peer support.
The primary population being supported includes adults living with substance dependence who are participating in Sunrise Way's residential rehabilitation and aftercare programs. The project has a particular focus on men in recovery who may face additional barriers to discussing mental health concerns and seeking help. Staff working within rehabilitation services will also benefit through enhanced mental health literacy and suicide prevention skills, improving the overall quality and consistency of client support.
By strengthening workforce capability and creating targeted support opportunities for clients, Recovering with Support will improve early identification of mental health concerns, promote help-seeking, reduce stigma and enhance recovery outcomes. The initiative reflects Sunrise Way's mission to build stronger and healthier communities by helping individuals living with addiction rebuild their lives and access the support they need to achieve lasting recovery.